Event Manager
Reports to: Head of Event Management
Direct Reports: Senior Events Manager
Location: CBS Arena Coventry
Working Pattern: 35 working hours per week with an unpaid hour lunch break. Hours will be scheduled in line with the event management rota and will predominantly be five in seven.
Term: Permanent
Overview
The Event Manager plays a key role in the successful planning, coordination, and execution of events within the venue. This position is responsible for managing all aspects of event operations — from pre-event planning and logistics to on-the-day delivery and post-event evaluation.
Working closely with clients, contractors, suppliers, and internal teams, the Event Manager ensures a seamless experience for organisers, exhibitors, and attendees, while maintaining high standards of safety, customer service, and operational efficiency.
Roles and Responsibilities:
Event Planning and Management
Collaborate with clients to understand their needs and objectives through pre-event planning meetings.
Supervise the setup and breakdown of Exhibitor spaces, ensuring with health and safety, and venue design guideline.
Verify that Electrics, IT, and Rigging Services are in place before the event begins.
Complete pre-event check lists, recoding any issues with relevant departments.
Ensure the Conference and Exhibition spaces are clean, well maintained and prepared for scheduled events.
Supervise routine maintenance programme.
Develop event concepts, timelines and budgets.
Manage all aspects of event logistics, including venue set up, equipment and staffing.
Coordinate with various departments and external vendors.
Finance and Reporting
Produce detailed Estimated Trading Accounts (ETS’s) for all event over £10,000.
Accurate forecasting for all events.
Attend weekly Budget and Forecast Meeting with the Head of Event Management and Senior Event Manager.
Safety and Compliance
Enforce safety guidelines, fire regulations, and health protocols on the exhibition floor.
Conduct inspections to ensure that exhibitors comply with contractual agreements and event regulations.
Ensure organisers compliance with the AEV eGuide.
Client Relations
Build and maintain strong relationship with clients.
Provide Excellent Customer Service and address client inquiries and concerns in a timely manner.
Manage budgets effectively.
On-Site Management
Ensure the smooth and efficient execution of the events on the day.
Lead daily staff briefing with operational teams.
Address any issues or problems that arise during the event.
Serve as the primary point of contact for Organisers and Exhibitors during the event.
Monitor the Event floor to ensure organisers, exhibitors and visitors follow venue regulations, including health and safety including the set up and dismantling of stands within the show tenancy period.
Building good relationships with Organisers and Exhibitors.
Troubleshoot and resolve onsite issues such as technical problems, organisers and exhibitor concerns or visitor enquiries.
Collate sign off sheets with Organisers Contractors for Self-Build Stands, Shell Scheme, Carpet and Electrics.
Manage crowd flow, parking and other logistical aspects to enhance the organiser, exhibitor and visitor experience.
Post Event Evaluation
Supervise the breakdown of exhibits and ensure all equipment and materials are removed efficiently.
Collect feedback from organisers, exhibitors and attendees for future improvements.
Prepare reports summarising the event’s success, challenges, and areas for improvement.
Address any technical or structural issues to minimise disruption to future events
Conduct post event checks capturing any damage is recorded and repaired, and that any charges are passed on to the relevant parties.
Waste management – ensure that all waste is accounted for and charged back to the organiser.
Other Responsibilities
Stay upto date with industry trends and best practices.
Contribute to the development of new event concepts and strategies.
Montor to Conference and Event Co-ordinator
Person Specification:
Strong background in event management or operations within a venue or agency setting.
Proven ability to manage multiple events and stakeholders simultaneously.
Excellent organisational and communication skills.
Confident decision-maker with a solution-focused mindset.
Knowledge of health & safety and industry regulations (e.g., AEV eGuide compliance).
Comfortable working irregular hours, including evenings and weekends.
Relevant Qualifications:
Education:
Degree or equivalent qualification in Event Management, Hospitality, Business, Marketing, or a related field is preferred.
Relevant industry certifications (e.g. IOSH, First Aid, Health & Safety, AEV eGuide training) are a plus
Experience:
Minimum 2–4 years of experience in event planning, coordination, or operations (preferably in a venue, agency, or hospitality environment).
Proven track record of managing live events, exhibitions, conferences, or corporate functions.
Experience working with clients, contractors, and multiple internal departments.
Skills & Knowledge:
Strong organisational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal.
Confident in leading meetings and delivering briefings to internal teams and clients.
Sound financial acumen; experience with budgeting, forecasting, and cost control.
Comfortable interpreting event layouts, CAD drawings, and risk assessments.
Strong working knowledge of event regulations, health and safety standards, and licensing requirements.
Proficiency in MS Office; experience using event software, CRM systems, or venue management platforms is desirable.
Personal Attributes:
Customer-focused, professional, and solution-driven.
Calm under pressure and comfortable working to tight deadlines.
Flexible with working hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays when required.
Proactive attitude and strong team ethic.
Relevant Skills:
Organisational & Planning Skills
Excellent time management and ability to multitask
Strong project planning from concept to delivery.
Scheduling and coordinating complex event timelines.
Managing bookings, suppliers, staffing, and logistics.
Communication Skills
Confident in client-facing roles.
Skilled in written and verbal communication.
Ability to clearly communicate with internal teams, vendors, and stakeholders.
Experience in giving briefings and managing expectations.
Problem Solving & Decision Making
Quick thinking and solution-oriented under pressure.
Able to respond effectively to last-minute changes or challenges.
Skilled in conflict resolution with clients or teams.
Budget & Financial Management
Budget creation and cost control.
Forecasting and profitability tracking.
Negotiating costs with suppliers and vendors.
Leadership & Team Management
Supervising event staff and operational teams.
Delegating tasks and overseeing team performance.
Leading pre-event briefings and post-event evaluations.
Customer Service & Relationship Building
Client-focused with a strong emphasis on guest experience.
Building long-term relationships with organisers and stakeholders.
Managing VIPs and high-profile clients professionally.
Technical & Digital Skills
Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint).
Familiar with event management software or CRMs (e.g., EventsAir, Ungerboeck, Salesforce).
Understanding of AV, IT, rigging, and venue technical requirements.
Compliance & Safety Awareness
Knowledge of health & safety regulations, risk assessments, and emergency procedures.
Familiarity with industry guidelines like the AEV eGuide.
First aid or IOSH qualifications (beneficial).
