At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and transform the Coventry Building Society Arena into a top UK venue for events.
- Company: Join Legends Global, a leader in sport and entertainment excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, health support, and a 5% pension contribution.
- Other info: Inclusive culture focused on innovation and collaboration.
- Why this job: Be part of an exciting venue transformation and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience in venues or hospitality with strong financial skills.
The predicted salary is between 31500 - 38500 £ per year.
About Legends Global
Legends Global is redefining excellence in sport, entertainment and live events.
With unrivalled expertise and international reach, we provide end-to-end solutions – from venue development and event programming to revenue strategy and hospitality.
We take a 360-degree, data-driven approach across Partnerships, Hospitality, Merchandise and Attractions, working with leading clients to deliver outstanding experiences that resonate worldwide.
Our organisation is committed to fostering an inclusive and forward-thinking environment where diversity drives innovation and collaboration.
Guided by our values of Align, Scale, Connect, Team and Win... we create a culture where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
About the Role
Legends Global is seeking an exceptional General Manager to lead and drive operational excellence across the Coventry Building Society (CBS) Arena, overseeing multiple service lines including Arena Event Operations (live music, entertainment and conferences & exhibitions), C&E Sales, Marketing, and Food & Beverage operations.
In addition, the role will have responsibility for delivering matchday Food & Beverage operations for Coventry City Football Club , including both retail and premium hospitality services , ensuring seamless integration between stadium and arena operations.
The General Manager is the senior leader responsible for the overall commercial success, financial performance and operational excellence of the venue.
Working in partnership with Coventry City Football Club and Legends Global, the General Manager will lead the transformation of the venue into one of the UK's leading destinations for live sport, entertainment, conferences, exhibitions and premium hospitality.
The role is accountable for delivering the venue's business plan, maximising revenue and profitability, developing high-performing teams and creating exceptional guest experiences.
Leading an experienced leadership team across Commercial, Food & Beverage, Operations, Sales and Marketing, the General Manager will provide strategic direction whilst fostering a culture of innovation, accountability and continuous improvement.
This is a highly commercial leadership position requiring strong financial acumen, outstanding people leadership and the ability to identify and capitalise on new business opportunities.
Whilst operational oversight remains important, the primary focus is driving sustainable commercial growth and delivering long-term value for both Legends Global and Coventry City Football Club.
- Commercial Leadership
- Develop and deliver the venue's commercial strategy, ensuring sustainable growth in revenue, EBITDA and market share.
- Lead the development and delivery of the annual business plan, identifying opportunities to grow all revenue streams.
- Drive commercial performance across Conference & Exhibitions, Food & Beverage, Premium Hospitality, Retail, Partnerships, Live Entertainment and Football Event Day revenues.
- Identify and develop new revenue opportunities through innovation, strategic partnerships and evolving customer demand.
- Lead regular commercial performance reviews using financial and operational data to drive decision making.
- Develop pricing, yield and revenue optimisation strategies.
- Build strong relationships with clients, promoters, rights holders, event organisers and commercial partners.
- Champion a culture of continuous commercial improvement.
- Leadership
- Lead, inspire and develop a high-performing leadership team.
- Create a culture built around accountability, collaboration, innovation and exceptional guest service.
- Develop future leaders through coaching, mentoring and succession planning.
- Ensure all departments work collaboratively to deliver common commercial objectives.
- Lead organisational change programmes and investment projects.
- Act as the senior ambassador for the venue.
- Venue Strategy & Transformation
- Lead the continued transformation of the venue.
- Play a leading role in capital investment projects and venue redevelopment.
- Ensure the venue evolves through investment in technology, guest experience and operational efficiency.
- Use customer insight and market intelligence to inform future business decisions.
- Develop the venue's reputation as a market-leading destination.
- Financial Management
- Hold full accountability for the venue P&L.
- Develop robust financial forecasts, budgets and business plans.
- Drive strong financial governance and cost control.
- Review KPIs and take corrective action where required.
- Sales & Marketing
- Provide strategic leadership to the Sales and Marketing teams.
- Develop a high-performing sales culture.
- Ensure robust sales pipelines and conversion.
- Champion data-led marketing and customer acquisition.
- Food & Beverage
- Provide strategic leadership of the Food & Beverage business.
- retail, hospitality and premium experiences.
- Maximise revenue, profitability and guest satisfaction.
- Operations
- Provide strategic leadership to the Operations team.
- Ensure safe, compliant and efficient delivery of all events.
- Maintain the highest standards Drive innovation across of health, safety, security and sustainability.
- What we can offer
- Hosting events is what we do best, and we want our People to experience that too- enjoy access to discounted tickets to unleash your superfan for all your favourites.
- You will work hard at Legends Global , but you will be rewarded with lots of time to relax and rest with 25 days annual leave
- We understand that you have a life outside of work and want to ensure that your loved ones will always be taken care of whilst you’re contributing to our success with our Life Assurance policy.
- A healthy contribution of 5% Pension so that your golden years are spent ticking off the items on your bucket list.
• Got a dental bill?
Need to book a counselling session?
Or even help with Physio costs?
With the support of Healthshield; Legends Global will support with these unexpected costs.
For you and any children.
- We understand that from time to time you might need a bit of support to get you back to feeling your best, so we have teamed up with AXA Health to provide our people with an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) to support mental health in the workplace.
- We are visionaries: both physically and metaphorically! When you join Legends Global you will be entitled to eye care vouchers and a contribution towards any glasses you require.
- Pedal your way to a greener, healthier commute—join our Cycle to Work scheme and turn every ride into a win for you and the planet
- Great people know great people! Refer a friend through our Employee Referral Scheme and get rewarded for helping us build an amazing team
About you
- We are seeking an inspirational commercial leader with the vision, energy and capability to lead one of the UK's most exciting venue transformation projects.
- Significant senior leadership experience within venues, hospitality, leisure, sport or major events.
- Proven track record of delivering sustained commercial growth and profitability.
- Exceptional financial and analytical capability with strong P&L management experience.
- Experience leading high-performing sales and commercial teams.
- Strong understanding of conference, exhibition, hospitality and live entertainment markets.
- Ability to identify and develop new revenue opportunities.
- Excellent stakeholder management and commercial negotiation skills.
- Experience leading organisational change and business transformation.
- Ability to inspire, coach and develop high-performing teams.
- Excellent strategic thinking combined with strong execution.
- Commitment to delivering exceptional customer and fan experiences.
- Recruitment Process
- 1st Stage-Intro Call with Talent Team
- 2nd Stage-Interview & Presentation with Club
Any offer of employment will be subject to satisfactory pre‑employment checks.
These may include verification of identity, proof of address, right to work, employment history, qualifications, and—where relevant to the role—a basic or enhanced DBS check.
All checks will be carried out in line with data protection law and we will only request information that is necessary for the role.
Inclusive Workplace
At Legends Global , we are committed to leading the entertainment industry towards a greener, faster, and more innovative digital future.
There’s never been a better time to join our team.
We aim to be an inclusive organisation, trusted and admired by our colleagues, customers, and suppliers.
Join us and make a significant impact from day one.
We are committed to active inclusion, diversity, and equal opportunities.
This commitment begins with our recruitment and selection process.
We welcome discussions about flexible working arrangements.
If you need reasonable adjustments at any stage of our recruitment process, please let us know in your application.
We are dedicated to providing a fair and transparent assessment process and will do our utmost to accommodate your needs.
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General Manager Venues · Coventry Building Society Arena employer: Utilita Arena
Utilita Arena in Manchester is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work environment where creativity and collaboration thrive. With a focus on employee growth, the venue provides opportunities for professional development and training, ensuring that team members can enhance their skills while contributing to memorable events. The vibrant culture and commitment to exceptional customer experiences make it a rewarding place to work for those passionate about hospitality and events.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land General Manager Venues · Coventry Building Society Arena
✨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 Utilita Arena. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Utilita Arena
Don't be shy about reaching out to Utilita Arena 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 General Manager Venues · Coventry Building Society Arena
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 Utilita Arena 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 Utilita Arena
✨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!
