At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead venue operations and ensure exceptional delivery of live events at O2 Guildhall Southampton.
- Company: Join Live Nation, the world's leading live entertainment company.
- Benefits: Inclusive culture, professional development, and opportunities to work with top artists.
- Other info: Flexible hours and a dynamic environment with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Be part of an exciting team in a vibrant entertainment venue and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Experience in live entertainment or venue management and strong leadership skills.
Job Summary:
Company: Live Nation
Venue: O2 Guildhall Southampton
Location: Southampton, UK
Reports to: General Manager
Working Hours: Full time
Job Type: Fixed term contract, 18 months
Role Description
The Deputy General Manager is a senior position within the team, responsible for a variety of duties that contribute to the effective management and smooth running of O2 Guildhall Southampton. Working with the General Manager to lead exceptional delivery of our core business objectives and commercial targets. You will be passionate about the entertainment industry and highly motivated to deliver an outstanding experience to all clients and customers.
Our Team
The Deputy General Manager is an integral role at our prestigious entertainment venue, where our shows and events are as diverse as the individuals within it. The successful candidate will be contributing to managing, developing and motivating an innovative team to ensure high-quality service, driving our inclusive culture to deliver the best possible programme of live entertainment for everyone, where collaboration is at the heart of everything we do.
Our Venue
O2 Guildhall Southampton is the South's largest multipurpose entertainment venue. Hosting some of the biggest names in music from Pink Floyd and David Bowie in the 70's to bands such as Hard Fi, Manic Street Preachers, The Killers, The Kaiser Chiefs and Amy Winehouse. With a capacity of 1,749 and in the heart of the city centre, 10 minutes from the railway station, amidst cafes, restaurants and shops it's the place to be!
About you
- Successful background in the live entertainment industry or venue management
- Experience of working as a manager or in an operational role
- Proven track record in managing live performances and events
- Knowledge of health and safety regulations and licensing
- Excellent communication and diplomacy skills
- Proficient in Microsoft Office packages
- Understanding of booking and promotion of live events
- Good control of operating costs and budgeting
- Self-motivated and results driven
What we need
- Personal licence holder
- First-class client and customer service
- Demonstrable leadership and motivation of others
- Passionate and enthusiastic for the live events industry
- Flexibility to work irregular hours (weekends/evenings/public holidays)
- Willingness to build positive working relationships
- A proactive organiser in problem-solving who can negotiate solutions
What the role includes
- Deputise for the General Manager in overseeing all venue operations and departments
- Duty manage events and programming to the highest standard
- Work collaboratively with the venue team, head office and Southampton City Council.
- Act as a point of contact and venue liaison for all contracted events and touring parties
- Maximise the events diary with the General Manager
- Maintain first-rate relationships with clients and partners
- Support the general manager in forecasting and budgeting
- Track and review cost estimates and expenses
- Contribute to the Company business objectives and commercial targets
- Liaise with outsourced contractors and service providers
- Ensure all paperwork and reporting is completed and professionally retained
- Assist the General Manager in all licencing administration and risk assessment
- Adhere to all existing and new health and safety legislation
- Comply with all company guidelines and working practices
- Ensure the venue is maintained to the highest standards
- Communicate any building or department issues to the General Manager
- Line management and training of team members as required
- To publicly represent the venue and company in a professional manner
Equal Opportunities
We are passionate and committed to our people and go beyond the rhetoric of diversity and inclusion. You will be working in an inclusive environment and be encouraged to bring your whole self to work. We will do all that we can to help you successfully balance your work and homelife. As a growing business we will encourage you to develop your professional and personal aspirations, enjoy new experiences, and learn from the talented people you will be working with. It’s talent that matters to us and we encourage applications from people irrespective of their gender identity, race, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability status or caring responsibilities.
The Company
Live Nation Entertainment is the world’s leading live entertainment company, comprised of global market leaders: Ticketmaster, Live Nation Concerts, and Live Nation Media & Sponsorship. Ticketmaster is the global leader in event ticketing with over 500 million tickets sold annually and more than 12,000 clients worldwide. Live Nation Concerts is the largest provider of live entertainment in the world promoting more than 40,000 shows and 100+ festivals annually for nearly 4,000 artists in over 40 countries. These businesses allow Live Nation Media & Sponsorship to create strategic music marketing programs that connect over 1,000 brands with the 98 million fans that attend Live Nation Entertainment events each year.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: 2nd September 2026. We reserve the right to close applications any time. Live Nation Entertainment will never request payment or equipment purchases as part of the hiring process. Recruiters will only contact candidates from official Live Nation or affiliated brand email domains.
Deputy General Manager, O2 Guildhall Southampton employer: Live Nation Entertainment
At Live Nation UK & Ireland, we pride ourselves on fostering a dynamic and inclusive work culture that empowers our employees to thrive. As a BI Analyst, you'll have the opportunity to work with cutting-edge technologies like SQL and Tableau, while collaborating with diverse teams across the organisation. We offer robust professional development opportunities, competitive benefits, and a vibrant environment that encourages innovation and creativity, making it an excellent place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy General Manager, O2 Guildhall Southampton
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like Live Nation Entertainment. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Live Nation Entertainment
Don't be shy about reaching out to Live Nation Entertainment directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy General Manager, O2 Guildhall Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about Live Nation Entertainment and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at Live Nation Entertainment
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
