At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and coordinate exciting catering events while managing logistics and staffing.
- Company: Join Red Herring Catering, a dynamic company delivering exceptional event experiences.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, career progression, staff meals, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Flexible working hours with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a growing business and make a real impact in the events industry.
- Qualifications: Experience in event operations and strong leadership skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 € per year.
About Us
Red Herring Catering is a catering and events company delivering exceptional food, service, and event experiences across corporate, private, and hospitality sectors. We are looking for an experienced and highly organised Senior Events and Operations Manager to oversee event delivery, operational logistics, staffing coordination, payroll administration, and supplier management.
Role Overview
The Senior Events and Operations Manager will play a key leadership role in ensuring the smooth planning and execution of catering events while managing day-to-day operational functions. This role requires a hands-on professional with strong organisational, financial, and people management skills who can thrive in a fast-paced environment. The successful candidate will oversee event operations from enquiry to completion, manage staffing and payroll processes, coordinate supplier relationships, and ensure high standards of customer service and operational efficiency.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the planning, coordination, and execution of catering events of varying sizes
- Manage operational logistics including staffing, transport, equipment, and venue coordination
- Ensure all events are delivered on time, within budget, and to company standards
- Conduct event briefings and oversee on-site event management where required
- Develop and improve operational systems and procedures
- Handle last-minute operational changes and problem-solving effectively
Team Leadership
- Manage and supervise event staff, supervisors, and operational teams
- Coordinate staff rotas and scheduling
- Support recruitment, onboarding, and training of event staff
- Maintain high team morale and professional standards
Payroll & Finance Administration
- Process weekly payroll accurately and on time
- Verify staff hours, overtime, and event timesheets
- Maintain payroll records and liaise with accountants/payroll providers where necessary
- Process and pay supplier invoices within agreed payment terms
- Reconcile supplier statements and resolve invoice discrepancies
- Assist with budgeting, cost control, and financial reporting
Supplier & Client Management
- Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers and venues
- Negotiate supplier pricing and service agreements
- Ensure timely ordering of stock, equipment, and event supplies
- Act as a key point of contact for clients throughout the event process
- Maintain excellent customer service and client satisfaction
Compliance & Administration
- Ensure compliance with health & safety, food hygiene, and licensing regulations
- Maintain accurate operational and financial records
- Support senior management with reporting and strategic planning
Requirements
- Proven experience in event operations, hospitality, or catering management
- Strong knowledge of payroll processing and invoice management
- Excellent organisational and multitasking abilities
- Strong leadership and team management skills
- Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced events environment
- Financially competent with attention to detail
- Excellent communication and client relationship skills
- Proficient in Microsoft Office and operational/accounting software
- Flexible approach to working hours, including evenings and weekends when required
Desirable
- Experience within the catering or hospitality industry
- Knowledge of our accounts system Xero
- Full UK driving licence
What We Offer
- Competitive salary
- Career progression opportunities
- Dynamic and supportive working environment
- Staff meals and event perks
- Company pension scheme
- Opportunity to be part of an exciting and growing business
Salary: Depending on experience
How to Apply
Please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience to
Benefits:
On-site parking
Work Location: In person
Senior Event and Operations Manager in Southampton employer: Red Herring Catering and Events Ltd
Red Herring Catering is an exceptional employer that values its employees by offering a dynamic and supportive work environment, competitive salaries, and opportunities for career progression. Located in a vibrant area, the company fosters a culture of teamwork and excellence, ensuring that staff enjoy perks such as on-site parking and staff meals while being part of a growing business dedicated to delivering outstanding event experiences.
Contact Detail:
Red Herring Catering and Events Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Event and Operations Manager in Southampton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the events and catering industry. Attend local events, join relevant groups on social media, and don’t be shy to reach out to potential employers directly. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your skills! Create a portfolio that highlights your past events and operational successes. Use visuals and testimonials to demonstrate your impact. When you apply through our website, make sure to include a link to your portfolio so we can see what you bring to the table!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching Red Herring Catering and understanding our values and services. Think about how your experience aligns with our needs. We love candidates who show genuine interest and enthusiasm for what we do!
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interview! A simple thank-you email can go a long way in showing your appreciation and keeping you top of mind. It’s a great opportunity to reiterate your excitement about the role and remind us why you’re the perfect fit!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Event and Operations Manager in Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your experience in event operations and management. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing your achievements!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you’re the perfect fit for the Senior Events and Operations Manager role. Share specific examples of your past successes in similar positions.
Show Off Your Organisational Skills:Since this role requires strong organisational abilities, give us a glimpse into how you manage multiple tasks and priorities. We love seeing candidates who can juggle responsibilities like a pro!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Red Herring Catering and Events Ltd
✨Know Your Events Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into Red Herring Catering's past events. Familiarise yourself with their style, clientele, and any standout moments. This will not only show your genuine interest but also allow you to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
Prepare specific examples of how you've successfully managed event logistics in the past. Be ready to discuss your approach to problem-solving during high-pressure situations, as this role demands a hands-on professional who can think on their feet.
✨Demonstrate Financial Acumen
Since the role involves payroll and budgeting, brush up on your financial management skills. Be prepared to talk about your experience with payroll processing and how you've handled supplier invoices or budget constraints in previous roles.
✨Engage with Team Leadership Examples
Highlight your leadership style and provide examples of how you've motivated and managed teams in the past. Discuss how you maintain high morale and professional standards, as this is crucial for the Senior Events and Operations Manager position.
