Event Operations Manager - (Private Events)

We’re on the lookout for a driven and food-loving Event Operations Manager to join the KERB Events team – someone who thrives in fast-paced environments and knows how to bring big, bold events to life with style. From buzzing street food markets to high-profile brand activations and private takeovers, we deliver unforgettable experiences all over London (and beyond). Ideally, you’ll have experience running multiple events across different venues, are able to maintain a collected and professional approach under pressure, maintain a tight-ship on logistics, and be ready to get stuck in.

As an Event Operations Manager, you’ll both support and take the lead on planning and delivering your own portfolio of events – managing everything from the ins-and-outs of event logistics and team coordination to budgets and on-the-ground execution. You’ll be the operational engine, on the ground, keeping each event running smoothly, making sure every guest, client, trader, and crew member has an exceptional experience, delivering on our core values.

This is a hands-on role that calls for excellent communication skills, sharp attention to detail, and a strong grip on what exceptional event operations look like. You’ll be working closely with our event sales team, operations, finance, traders, venues, and clients – all while helping KERB deliver top-tier hospitality with personality.

What you'll be doing

• Lead the planning and delivery of events, ensuring every detail runs smoothly for clients, guests, traders, and staff
• Collaborate with the sales team to ensure seamless client management and event delivery
• Act as the main point of contact for clients, venues, suppliers, and stakeholders throughout the planning process
• Attend weekly operations meetings to share key event information with the team, keeping everything on track and well-prepped
• Work collaboratively with the warehouse team, attending meetings there in person, and establishing cohesive and productive working relationships
• Build and maintain strong working relationships with food traders, venues, and other key partners
• Take full ownership of the event site on the day, representing KERB with confidence and professionalism
• Uphold all health & safety policies and procedures across events, ensuring KERB’s high operational standards are met at every stage
• Manage event budgets and spending, taking ownership for P&Ls and looking for ways to improve efficiency and margins
• Brief and oversee on-site staff, making sure everyone understands their roles and responsibilities in line with KERB’s values and standards
• Attend site visits and planning meetings as needed to maintain smooth event preparation and delivery
• Manage handovers and briefing sessions with our freelance crew when required
• Monitor trader performance and food quality, identifying opportunities to raise the bar
• Work with the wider KERB Events team to develop new event formats and creative offerings
• Maintain strong, positive relationships with our venue partners, ensuring all site-specific requirements are met
• Play an active role in continuously improving how we run events and deliver memorable guest experiences

What you'll bring to KERB

• Established experience in event or project management – ideally within catering, event production, or the street food scene
• A solid understanding of the London events and catering industry
• Knowledge of health & safety and food safety regulations in an event setting
• Experience delivering large-scale events with multiple stakeholders
• A genuine interest in London’s independent food industry and street food culture
• Strong commercial awareness and sharp attention to detail
• Confident communication skills, with the ability to build positive, long-term relationships with clients, colleagues, traders, and partners
• Proactive mindset – comfortable taking initiative and working independently when needed
• Adaptable and practical – whether you're in wellies or steel-toe boots, you know how to tailor your approach to each site and situation
• A Personal Licence is a bonus
• A full, clean UK driving licence

This list is in no way exhaustive and the incumbent may be asked to perform other tasks to help out (within reason!), including some unsociable hours and weekends.

What you'll get by joining KERB

• Generous F&B discount across KERB food and drinks
• 25 days holiday (excluding bank holidays) + birthday day off
• Health Cash Plan (BHSF)
• Personal Wellbeing Allowance (Juno)
• CODE App Membership
• Private Medical Insurance (Vitality)
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Cycle To Work scheme
• Annual season ticket loan
• Enhanced maternity/paternity/adoption leave after 2 years
• A London Living Wage and Disability Confident Committed employer
• A Best Companies accredited employer

Diversity & Inclusion

As part of our values, we are dedicated to fostering a culture of inclusivity at KERB. We actively celebrate our teams’ different abilities, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, faith, and gender. Everyone, from any background, is welcome and supported in their development at all stages in their journey with us. Applicants are encouraged to share with our People Team any accommodations or reasonable adjustments required during the recruitment process.