At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage a busy venue, oversee operations, and create exciting events.
- Company: Join Devon FA, a dynamic organisation with a strong team ethos.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible hours, and direct access to senior leadership.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and genuine ownership of your role.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a vibrant community-focused environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in hospitality or management roles; great people skills required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 30000 £ per year.
Ready to run something, rather than simply help run it? Pivotal Recruit is partnering with Devon FA to find their next Complex Manager. Don’t let the job title define the opportunity. This is a broad, hands-on role bringing together venue operations, hospitality, people, customers, events and commercial development at the County Ground in Newton Abbot.
There’s already plenty happening. The opportunity is to make more happen.
You’ll take responsibility for the day-to-day operation of a busy venue incorporating a 3G sports facility, bar and catering operation, events, functions and community use. You’ll lead and support the team, oversee bookings, rotas, stock, suppliers and operational standards, and make sure customers have a great experience. But this isn’t simply about keeping things ticking over. Devon FA wants someone who will look at the operation and ask: What could we do better? What aren’t we doing yet? And where’s the opportunity?
You’ll help increase use of the venue, develop events and functions, build relationships with local businesses and the wider community, and identify new opportunities to generate income. You’ll also report directly to the CEO and sit as part of the Senior Management Team, giving you the opportunity to contribute to the wider organisation.
We’re deliberately keeping an open mind about where you’ve gained your experience. You might currently be a:
- Duty Manager
- Assistant or Deputy Manager
- Hospitality Manager
- Leisure Manager
- Events Manager
- Venue Manager or Supervisor
- Food & Beverage Manager
- Operations Manager
You might be working in hospitality, hotels, leisure, events, sport, visitor attractions, holiday parks, community facilities or another busy customer-facing environment. You don’t need to come from football and you don’t necessarily need to have been a Complex or Venue Manager before either. You might already be the person who keeps things moving, gets the team pulling together, sorts problems when they arise and can see better ways of doing things. Now you’re ready for the opportunity to take greater ownership.
What are we looking for? Someone who is:
- Good with people and able to lead without needing to throw their job title around
- Commercially aware and able to spot opportunities
- Practical, organised and comfortable juggling competing priorities
- Customer focused
- Confident enough to challenge constructively and bring an alternative
- Comfortable taking responsibility and making decisions
- Happy to roll their sleeves up when needed
Most importantly, we’re looking for someone with some get-up-and-go. Someone whose instinct when something needs sorting is: “Right, what are we going to do about it?”
Why Devon FA? You’ll be joining an organisation with an ambitious vision for the County Ground and a strong team ethos built around its values of Respectful, Inclusive and Positive. You’ll have genuine ownership, direct access to senior leadership and specialist hospitality support to draw upon as you get established. There’s already a good foundation, The opportunity is to help build what comes next.
The practical bits:
- Salary: Up to £30,000 per annum
- Hours: 36.25 hours per week. The County Ground is a 7 day operation so the role will require evening and weekend working.
- Location: County Ground, Newton Abbot
- Contract: Permanent
There is genuine flexibility and a culture based on trust and getting the job done. The successful applicant will be required to complete a satisfactory DBS check and must be eligible and willing to apply for and hold a Personal Licence for the sale of alcohol. Training and support to obtain the Personal Licence can be provided.
Events and Venue Manager employer: Pivotal Partnerships
Devon FA is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment at the County Ground in Newton Abbot, where you can truly make an impact as a Senior Venue & Events Manager. With a strong focus on employee growth and a culture of trusted leadership, you will have the opportunity to lead a dedicated team, enhance community engagement, and drive business improvements while enjoying the benefits of a supportive and collaborative workplace.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Events and Venue Manager
✨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 Pivotal Partnerships. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Pivotal Partnerships
Don't be shy about reaching out to Pivotal Partnerships 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 Events and Venue Manager
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 Pivotal Partnerships 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 Pivotal Partnerships
✨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!
