Head of Sales - Exhibitions & Events in London

Overview

The Venue Olympia Events is more than an exhibition venue, conference centre and live-event space - it’s an inspiration. Against a backdrop of grand Victorian architecture, the seven connected spaces inspire engagement and enjoyment. Olympia Events is recognised in the industry for exceptional levels of customer service and support, and our numerous awards are testament to our clients' satisfaction. Beyond the walls of our venue, Olympia is on the ground, working to invest in people, strengthen our communities, and protect the environment.

Olympia Events is undergoing a period of change. In 2017, the venue was bought by a consortium led by Yoo Capital and Deutsche Finance International. Work is currently underway to transform the wider estate into a cultural hub, of which Olympia Events will be the central part. Once complete, the estate will include a new theatre, music venue, two hotels, over 30 eateries, world-class office space and over two acres of public realm.

Job Purpose

As our Head of Sales (Exhibitions & Events), you’ll play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Exhibition sales at Olympia. Reporting directly to our Sales Director - Events, this is your opportunity to take the lead on delivering a bold, forward‐thinking strategy that fuels our ambitious commercial growth and supports our wider business vision.

In this role, you won’t just be responding to the market—you’ll be anticipating it. You’ll bring a sharp understanding of industry trends, emerging opportunities, and the competitive landscape, using your insight to forge powerful relationships, influence key decision‐makers, and unlock new revenue streams.

If you’re energised by growth, motivated by meaningful impact, and ready to be at the heart of one of the UK’s most iconic venues as it enters a transformative chapter, this might just be the perfect role you’ve been waiting for.

The Role

• Maximising revenue and ensuring full sell‐out of all Exhibition Hall spaces (Grand Hall, National Hall, West Halls and the new Central Hall), delivering against EBITDAR expectations and the commercial targets set out in our Masterplan.
• Delivering and executing a high‐impact sales strategy in partnership with the Sales Director – Events, creating compelling proposals, negotiating contracts, producing sales collateral, and embedding profit‐and‐loss processes to guarantee event profitability.
• Cultivating powerful relationships across UK and international corporate and consumer markets, nurturing new and lapsed clients to drive repeat business while championing Olympia's Exhibition offering and guest experience.
• Building effective processes and cross‐functional collaboration, developing systems that support business growth, driving efficiencies, and working closely with Olympia Estates Services, partners, and suppliers to align with wider destination goals.
• Leading, developing, and growing a high‐performing sales team, setting clear KPIs and targets, recruiting future talent, and creating an aspirational progression structure that supports the business's growth ambitions.

You’ll Have

• Extensive high‐value event and sales experience, with a proven track record of delivering successful sales strategies, understanding industry trends, navigating complex markets, and consistently exceeding revenue targets.
• Exceptional relationship‐building and stakeholder‐management skills, with the confidence to influence at all levels, present to diverse audiences, and communicate with clarity through compelling written and verbal messaging.
• Strong strategic and analytical capabilities, enabling you to interpret situations quickly, develop plans aligned with business objectives, and provide sound guidance in fast‐paced, high‐pressure environments.
• A self‐driven, highly organised approach, with excellent attention to detail, the ability to work autonomously while being a committed team player, and the integrity, discretion, and professionalism required for a confidential commercial environment.
• A proactive, positive attitude and the technical proficiency to match, including confident public speaking skills and strong competence across MS Office applications.

Sustainability Responsibility

• Continuously improve your knowledge of Olympia Events' sustainability programme - the 'Grand Plan'. Complete all training provided and promote sustainability practices to meet our Grand Plan objectives.
• Follow and promote all sustainable workplace policies and procedures, and seek ways to make your department more sustainable by taking an active role to initiate change.

Our Commitment

Olympia Events is fully committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all children, young people and adults at risk (vulnerable groups) who attend our premises. As a consequence, Olympia Events may require any successful applicant to undergo a DBS Check before commencing work in our business.

Olympia Events is committed to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion and expects all its people to have a positive commitment to EDI by treating others fairly and not committing any form of discrimination, victimisation, or harassment. It also promotes positive working relationships among employees and stakeholders.