Conference and Events Operations Manager

Compass Group; Greater London; On-site; GBP 32,000 - GBP 38,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading hospitality services provider is seeking an experienced Conference & Events Operations Manager for their operations at ExCeL London. This role involves managing the delivery of large-scale events, fostering client relationships, and leading a dynamic team of Operations Managers in a fast-paced environment. A strong background in event management and excellent leadership capabilities are essential for success. Ideal candidates will thrive in high-pressure situations, ensuring quality and compliance while enhancing guest experiences.

Benefits

Career development opportunities

Collaborative team environment

Fast-paced working environment

Qualifications

• Proven experience in conference, events, or large-scale hospitality operations.
• Experience managing high-volume, complex events in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to manage and inspire large teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead the end-to-end operational delivery of conferences, exhibitions, and events.
• Build strong relationships with clients and stakeholders.
• Motivate and support large operational teams during event delivery.

Skills

Leadership skills

Organisational skills

Communication skills

Stakeholder management

Problem-solving skills

Job description

Conference & Events Operations Manager

Location - ExCeL London

Salary up to £38000

Role Overview

Levy delivers world-class food, drink, and hospitality experiences at some of the most iconic venues in the UK and Ireland. At ExCeL London, one of Europe’s largest and busiest exhibition and conference centres, we operate at exceptional scale, pace, and complexity.

We are seeking an experienced Conference & Events Operations Manager to join our established team of 8 Conference & Events Operations Managers, collectively responsible for the seamless planning and delivery of high-profile conferences, exhibitions, banqueting, and live events. This role is pivotal in ensuring operational excellence, outstanding guest experience, and strong client relationships across a diverse and fast-moving event portfolio.

Key Responsibilities

Event Delivery & Operations

• Lead the end-to-end operational delivery of conferences, exhibitions, and events within ExCeL London
• Act as the operational lead on assigned events, ensuring all food & beverage services are delivered to Levy’s high standards
• Work collaboratively within the wider team of 8 Operations Managers to ensure consistency, flexibility, and shared best practice across the venue

Client & Stakeholder Management

• Build strong relationships with clients, organisers, venue partners, and internal stakeholders
• Represent Levy as the primary operational contact for events, managing expectations and delivering solutions in a high-pressure environment
• Collaborate closely with Sales, Culinary, Logistics, People & Culture, and Finance teams

Team Leadership

• Lead, motivate, and support large, multi-skilled operational teams during event delivery
• Ensure effective briefing, deployment, and supervision of teams to meet service, safety, and performance standards
• Support the development and engagement of colleagues, contributing to a positive and inclusive team culture

Commercial & Financial Performance

• Deliver events in line with agreed budgets, margins, and forecasts
• Identify opportunities to enhance guest experience while driving efficiency and commercial performance
• Ensure accurate cost control, labour planning, and post-event reconciliation

Health, Safety & Compliance

• Ensure all events are delivered in full compliance with food safety, health & safety, and licensing regulations
• Champion Levy’s standards, policies, and procedures at all times

Skills & Experience

Essential

• Proven experience in conference, events, or large-scale hospitality operations
• Experience managing high-volume, complex events in a fast-paced environment
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to manage and inspire large teams
• Excellent organisational, communication, and stakeholder management skills
• Commercially aware with strong operational problem-solving ability
• Flexible approach to working hours, including evenings and weekends

Desirable

• Experience working within a major venue, convention centre, or large event space
• Knowledge of large-scale catering operations and logistics
• IOSH, food safety, or hospitality management qualifications

Why Join Levy at ExCeL London?

• Work at one of Europe’s most prestigious and dynamic event venues
• Be part of a collaborative, experienced team of 8 Conference & Events Operations Managers
• Deliver iconic, large-scale events with global reach
• Career development opportunities within Levy and Compass Group
• A fast-paced, high-energy environment where no two days are the same