At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead facilities operations at the UK's biggest live entertainment arena and develop a top-notch strategy.
- Company: Join Co-op Live, a world-class venue shaping the future of live entertainment.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, private healthcare, and a vibrant team culture with social events.
- Other info: Embrace a diverse workplace committed to innovation and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic environment while managing exciting events and teams.
- Qualifications: Experience in facilities leadership and project management; relevant qualifications preferred but not mandatory.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
We’re on the lookout for a highly experienced Head of Facilities to help shape the UK’s biggest and most exciting live entertainment arena – Co‑op Live. This unique opportunity allows you to lead our facilities operations at a truly world‑class venue, develop and implement an outstanding facilities strategy, deliver policy, procedures, regulatory and industry requirements, and lead a passionate team committed to delivering the best arena experience in the UK.
Responsibilities
- Own all aspects of facilities – from developing a robust maintenance strategy and embedding a safety‑first culture to ensuring the venue operates at the highest level.
- Manage a talented in‑house team and multiple contractors, oversee operational planning for events, and maintain seamless venue operations across all touchpoints.
- Drive forward sustainability, maintain facilities to the highest level, and champion excellence while monitoring budgets, timelines, and compliance.
What Co‑op Live Will Give To You
- Development opportunities and regular one‑to‑one sessions
- Key objectives to help you succeed in your role
- Commitment to your wellbeing and work‑life balance
- Office‑based role that mobilises the biggest music and live entertainment arena in the UK
- Salary £65,000 - £75,000, dependent on experience.
Note: The role requires 5 days out of 7 per week and supports our events, so weekend and late‑evening work is required.
Benefits
- 25 days holiday plus bank holidays
- Employer pension scheme
- Private health care scheme – Vitality
- Life assurance (4 × basic salary)
- Eyecare vouchers
- WeCare Employee Assistance Programme – 24hrs, 7 days per week
- Company sick pay scheme
- Enhanced family‑friendly benefits
- Office fruit & snacks
- Team social events
Knowledge, Skills and Experience
Joining the team, you will:
- Be an experienced and confident facilities leader in large, fast‑paced, public‑facing environments.
- Have strong expertise in building operations, project delivery, and balancing big picture and detail.
- Bring energy, resilience and a can‑do attitude that inspires teams and fosters a positive, high‑performance culture.
- Be commercially astute, strategically minded, and naturally collaborative, with a track record of managing major projects and budgets.
- Hold relevant qualifications such as IWFM, NEBOSH, IOSH, PRINCE2 (preferred but not mandatory).
- Lead with integrity and purpose.
Our Inclusion Commitments
We understand that to continue positively disrupting the sports and live entertainment industry, we need a diverse team. Inclusion drives innovation, strengthens our people, improves our service, and raises our excellence. We are committed to creating a great place to work that amplifies voices from all backgrounds. If you require any additional support or reasonable adjustments to support your application, please let us know – we will consider applications from all candidates who demonstrate the required skills.
Employee Screening and Eligibility to Work
Safeguarding is important. Depending on the role, you may be required to undertake a Disclosure and Barring Service Check. If successful, you will need to provide evidence of eligibility to work in line with UK requirements.
Seniority level Director
Employment type Full-time
Job function Management and Manufacturing Entertainment Providers
Head of Facilities - Co-op Live in Manchester employer: Oak View Group
Co-op Live is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead facilities operations at the UK's largest live entertainment arena. With a strong commitment to employee wellbeing, professional development, and a vibrant work culture, you will thrive in an environment that values innovation and collaboration. Enjoy competitive benefits, including private healthcare and enhanced family-friendly policies, while being part of a passionate team dedicated to delivering unforgettable experiences.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Facilities - Co-op Live in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry folks at events or online. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, highlight your experience in facilities management and how you've led teams to success. Make it clear that you're the one they need for Co-op Live!
✨Tip Number 3
Research is key! Dive deep into Co-op Live and understand their values and goals. Tailor your conversations to show how your vision aligns with theirs, especially around sustainability and operational excellence.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Facilities - Co-op Live in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for live entertainment shine through! We want to see how excited you are about shaping the Co-op Live experience and leading a top-notch facilities team.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your relevant experience in facilities management. Focus on your achievements in large, fast-paced environments and how you've successfully managed projects and budgets.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language to describe your skills and experiences, making it easy for us to see why you're the perfect fit for the Head of Facilities role.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at Co-op Live.
How to prepare for a job interview at Oak View Group
✨Know Your Venue
Before the interview, do your homework on Co-op Live. Familiarise yourself with its facilities, past events, and any recent news. This shows genuine interest and helps you tailor your answers to how you can enhance the venue's operations.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a Head of Facilities, you'll be leading a team. Be ready to discuss your leadership approach, how you motivate teams, and examples of how you've successfully managed projects in fast-paced environments. Use specific instances to illustrate your points.
✨Emphasise Sustainability
Sustainability is key in today's facilities management. Prepare to discuss your experience with sustainable practices and how you plan to drive these initiatives at Co-op Live. Highlight any relevant projects or strategies you've implemented in the past.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills. Think about challenges you've faced in facilities management and how you overcame them. Practising these scenarios will help you articulate your thought process clearly during the interview.
