Head Of Events - National Theatre

Head of Events – National Theatre

£70,000 per annum plus benefits

National Theatre Food & Drink is a unique and dynamic partnership driven by Levy and KERB, embedded within the National Theatre on the South Bank. Our ambition to create a world-class hospitality destination at the heart of the world\’s most iconic theatre is powered by our progressive people-first approach, centred on environmental and social sustainability. We celebrate inclusivity with purpose, putting the development and progression of our future leader’s centre stage. Our shared goal is to ensure all food and drink spaces support the NT\’s overall values, vision, and culture.

Purpose

As Head of Events, you’ll lead the strategic growth and delivery of all commercial and internal events at the National Theatre. Reporting to the F&D Director, you’ll drive revenue through innovative event programming and by maximising use of our iconic South Bank spaces. You’ll inspire and develop your team to deliver exceptional experiences, from proactive sales to seamless event execution. A key part of the role is nurturing our partnership with the National Theatre, ensuring world-class hospitality and supporting their fundraising ambitions through unforgettable events.

Responsibilities

• Head of Events will lead the strategic growth and commercial success of the National Theatre’s Food & Drink Events, delivering against sales and profitability targets.
• Oversee all event planning and sales activity across NT-managed spaces, ensuring exceptional experiences from enquiry to execution.
• Maintain and strengthen key client relationships with National Theatre stakeholders and high-value commercial partners to drive repeat business.
• Collaborate with Culinary, Operations, and Logistics teams to deliver bespoke, high-quality events that balance creativity, sustainability, and cost control.
• Manage and develop the Events team through mentoring, training, and performance leadership, fostering a culture of excellence and collaboration.
• Ensure operational and financial rigour through accurate documentation, compliant processes, and strong event-by-event P&L performance.
• Drive proactive business development, creating innovative event packages and implementing strategies to grow revenue across all spaces.
• Partner with the National Theatre’s marketing and partnerships teams to raise the profile of events, enhance visibility, and support fundraising goals.

About You:

• Our Head of Events must have proven leadership experience in cultural venues, high-end hospitality, or similar, with the ability to inspire and develop a high-performing team.
• Demonstrated success in driving business growth through sales strategy, budget management, P&L oversight, and financial accountability.
• Deep knowledge of food, wine, spirits, and industry trends, with experience creating innovative, bespoke events.
• Exceptional negotiation, communication, and stakeholder management skills, able to influence clients, vendors, and senior directors.
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail, capable of managing multiple complex events for 200+ guests simultaneously.
• Proactive decision-maker, resilient under pressure, with the ability to assess issues and implement effective solutions quickly.
• Committed to operational excellence, including health, safety, compliance, and best practice in all event delivery.
• Creative, driven, and adaptable, embracing change, fostering innovation, and leading by example to deliver exceptional experiences aligned with business values.

Benefits

• Access to ongoing training and development opportunities through GROW program
• Perks at Work – savings and discounts for everyday shopping and experiences
• Generous holiday allowance with the option of to purchase additional leave
• Private Pension scheme with a company matches up to 6%
• 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme
• Medicash Healthcare and Life Assurance
• Long Service Rewards and recognition
• 15% off all outlets with the National Theatre, with a 25% discount in the Bookshop.
• Kerb Card – 50% discount on drinks and 20% discount on food at Seven Dials Market.
• Complimentary tickets to shows at the National Theatre (subject to availability)
• O2 – last minute ticket offers for O2s show in our VIP box (subject to availability.)
• Onsite parking – parking is available at a discounted rate of £4 per day

Who are Levy?

Levy, part of Compass Group, known for delivering exceptional food, drink, and hospitality experiences at world-renowned venues such as Wimbledon, Twickenham, and Tottenham Hotspur. Focused on sustainability, diversity, and inclusion, Levy prides itself on using sustainably sourced ingredients and providing outstanding service. The company is committed to achieving Net Zero by 2027, partnering with the British Paralympic Association, and ensuring all team members earn at least the Real Living Wage or London Living Wage.

Why Join Us as Head of Events?

At Levy UK & Ireland, we celebrate diversity and foster inclusion, valuing every individual’s unique strengths. Our diverse team fuels creativity, innovation, and success. We promote fairness, ensure all voices are heard, and provide equal opportunities for all.

We welcome candidates from all backgrounds to join us in creating a supportive, equitable workplace where everyone can thrive and contribute. Together, we achieve greatness.