Venue Manager

Job Summary

We are looking for an experienced, dynamic and capable Venue Manager to play a central role in the day-to-day operation of our live music and club venue.

This is a hands-on operational leadership role at the heart of KOKO’s live programme. From major live shows and artist performances to high-energy, late-night club events, the Venue Manager will be responsible for ensuring every event is prepared, delivered and closed down to the highest possible standard.

Reporting to the AGM and working closely with a close management team, this is a key operational management role with responsibility for the planning and delivery of KOKO's live music and late-night programme

You’ll be a visible and confident presence on the ground, leading Front of House and security teams, coordinating closely with production, technical, bar and events teams, and ensuring that every audience member experiences the energy, quality and magic that KOKO is known for.

You’ll need to be calm under pressure, highly organised and commercially aware, with the confidence to make decisions in a fast-moving environment where exceptional live experiences and seamless operations go hand in hand.

Role and responsibilities

Operational Leadership

• Manage the operational preparation and delivery of a diverse programme of live shows, club events and late-night experiences.
• Ensure every event is thoroughly planned and operationally ready, with clear event plans that reflect the specific requirements and vision of promoters, artists and organisers.
• Act as a key operational point of contact for promoters and event partners, building strong, trusted and productive relationships.
• Lead and coordinate Front of House and security teams to deliver a safe, welcoming, efficient and high-energy guest experience.
• Work closely with internal teams across production, technical, bars and events to ensure all areas of the venue are aligned and operating seamlessly.
• Oversee event logistics, venue set-up and operational requirements, ensuring KOKO’s capabilities are maximised for every event.
• Anticipate operational challenges before they arise and make confident, effective decisions when responding to live issues.
• Ensure the smooth delivery of events from doors through to close, maintaining high standards throughout even during the busiest and most demanding periods.
• Create clear communication channels between internal teams and external partners, ensuring everyone understands the operational plan and their responsibilities.
• Support the Senior Venue Manager, AGM and GM in delivering operational priorities and continuously improving the way KOKO's events and venue operations are delivered
• Identify opportunities to improve systems, procedures and the overall efficiency of venue operations.
• Provide regular feedback and recommendations on operational performance and areas for improvement.
• Support the monitoring and control of event and operational costs, identifying practical and cost-effective solutions while maintaining exceptional guest experiences
• Monitor relevant sales and operational metrics, using insight to identify opportunities to improve performance and profitability.

Event Delivery & Guest Experience

• Champion an exceptional guest experience that reflects KOKO’s reputation as one of London’s leading live music and late-night destinations.
• Ensure the venue is consistently presented, prepared and staffed to the highest standards.
• Balance the operational demands of a large-capacity venue with the need to create an exciting, welcoming and memorable atmosphere for every audience.
• Work closely with promoters and organisers to understand their event requirements and ensure these are delivered effectively within KOKO’s operational framework.
• Maintain a highly visible presence during events, providing leadership and support to teams throughout the night.
• Take ownership of resolving issues quickly and professionally, ensuring minimal disruption to guests, artists, promoters and the wider operation.

Team Leadership & Performance

• Lead, motivate and support Front of House and operational teams, creating a positive, accountable and high-performing culture.
• Provide clear direction and leadership during both event preparation and live operations.
• Ensure appropriate training and development is in place to continuously improve service standards and operational performance..
• Recognise and celebrate great performance, contributing to a motivated and engaged venue team.

Health, Safety & Compliance

• Take responsibility for maintaining a safe and compliant environment for guests, artists, promoters and staff.
• Monitor and enforce KOKO’s health and safety procedures and operational standards.
• Maintain a strong working knowledge of relevant licensing, health and safety and venue regulations.
• Ensure teams understand and follow appropriate procedures throughout event operations.
• Respond confidently and promptly to incidents, ensuring appropriate action is taken and lessons are incorporated into future operations.
• Work closely with security and senior management to maintain a safe, professional and well-controlled environment during busy live and late-night events.

About you

We’re looking for a confident, organised and solutions-focused manager with experience delivering exceptional events in a busy live music, late-night or licensed venue, with the following key attributes:

• Experience managing operations within a busy live music, nightlife or licensed venue
• Highly organised, detail-focused and able to manage multiple priorities
• Calm, confident and decisive under pressure
• A natural problem-solver with a positive, solutions-focused approach
• Strong understanding of hospitality and guest experience, with good communication and relationship-building skills
• Confident working alongside production and technical teams
• Knowledge of London’s live music and cultural landscape
• Personal Licence or BIIAB Level 2 Award for Personal Licence Holders, IOSH or SIA training is desirable.

Please note we're only able to consider candidates with the Right to work in the UK