Conference and Banqueting Manager - The Kia Oval in London

We are seeking a confident and organised Conference and Banqueting Manager to join our collaborative team at The Kia Oval - the iconic home of Surrey County Cricket Club and one of the best conference venues in London! In this fast-paced role, you will be responsible for overseeing the smooth running of all conference and events catering, hospitality, and bar operations, ensuring exceptional service and attention to detail across match day and non-match day conferences and events.

Operations & Event Delivery

• Oversee the smooth running of all C&E operations, ensuring exceptional service and attention to detail across every event.
• Work closely with the Sales team to review client requirements, attend site visits, and confirm operational details.
• Partner with the Culinary team to maintain outstanding food presentation and service standards.
• Lead weekly function sheet meetings to align internal teams on event plans.
• Produce staff rotas in collaboration with the Head of C&E, ensuring labour costs are monitored and controlled.
• Maintain a strong working knowledge of in-built AV systems; train Event Managers/Supervisors and liaise with suppliers to order additional equipment when required.
• Coordinate with the reception team to ensure event signage, paperwork, and administrative materials are prepared and distributed in advance.
• Monitor till operations, oversee bar closures, and ensure the secure handling of cash and stock.
• Oversee all catering setups, working closely with the logistics team to ensure events are set according to function sheets and SOPs.
• Maintain stock levels and ensure all catering equipment is in good working order, arranging repairs or replacements as needed.

Team Leadership

• Manage and support a team of Managers and Supervisors, providing clear pre-event briefings and post-event feedback.
• Assist with the induction, training, and development of team members, ensuring high levels of service and operational efficiency.
• Promote a positive, collaborative working culture across all departments.

Client & Guest Experience

• Welcome event organisers and clients, ensuring their needs are met from initial planning to delivery.
• Provide cover or oversight for the OEL reception, ensuring guests and clients are greeted professionally, queries are handled efficiently, and reception operations run smoothly.
• Act as the main operational point of contact on event days, quickly resolving any issues or last-minute requests.
• Build strong, lasting relationships with clients, encouraging repeat business and positive feedback.

Health, Safety & The Environment

• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and legal regulations.
• Contribute to regular health and safety meetings and maintain accurate training records.
• Lead by example in promoting a safe working environment for staff, clients, and guests.
• Promote the Levy culture of sustainability first, ensuring a proactive approach to wastage, electricity usage and our 2027 net zero promise.

Financial & Administrative Management

• Identify operational improvements and cost-saving opportunities without compromising service standards.
• Monitor and manage labour scheduling, addressing variances between forecast and actual spend.
• Take ownership of all operational costs under your management, ensuring profitability targets are met.
• Support business improvement initiatives as part of the senior management team.

What we’re looking for

• Proven experience in conference, events, or hospitality management.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent communication and client relationship abilities, with experience developing meaningful client relationships.
• Organised, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple priorities.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and match days.

What you’ll get in return

• Competitive salary with bonus and full company benefits.
• 23 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays, your birthday off, and a holiday purchase scheme.
• Healthcare & wellbeing: Aviva Digicare, Medicash (dental, optical, therapy treatments).
• Mental health support: 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme.
• Family benefits: 2 days’ additional leave after returning from maternity leave, day off for your baby’s first birthday, enhanced family leave.
• Perks & discounts: Shopping, entertainment, and travel discounts, 20% off Nuffield Health and 10% off PureGym memberships.
• Financial wellbeing: Pension scheme, Life Assurance, preferred rates on salary finance products.
• Development opportunities: Professional subscriptions, ongoing training and structured career pathways.
• Meals on duty included.

Why Join Us?

Levy UK & Ireland is part of Compass Group, the world’s largest catering company, and a vibrant leader in hospitality. We believe in celebrating individuality and building inclusive teams where everyone feels they belong. Our diverse team fuels creativity, innovation, and excellence. We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer and welcome candidates from all backgrounds to join us in creating a supportive, empowering workplace where everyone can thrive. Together, we create unforgettable experiences - and shape the future of hospitality.