Coventry Building Society Arena supporting students with skills, opportunities and career progression

Coventry Building Society Arena is supporting young people with flexible employment opportunities that fit alongside their studies and providing pathways to a long-term career in the hospitality and events sector.

The leading venue for sport, business and entertainment employs up to 1,000 casual workers across the business, with each worker contributing to the venue delivering the best experiences across its event calendar.

Throughout the year, the venue hosts a series of recruitment events to showcase full-time, part-time and casual job opportunities – with even more opportunities available in the lead-up to major events.

The Arena draws from a wide talent pool for these roles, with students in Coventry, Warwickshire and the wider West Midlands taking advantage of the flexible employment opportunities every year.

Students are typically drawn from Coventry University, University of Warwick and universities in Birmingham. For many, working at the Arena provides financial support during their studies as well as practical experience in a fast paced and customer-focused environment.

It isn’t unusual for a young person to join in one role and enjoy quick progression, either within their existing teams or opportunities that present themselves in other departments at the venue.

Arun Peruri, 24, team leader at Coventry Building Society Arena

Arun Peruri was studying Film and Media at Coventry University. The 24-year-old attended a November recruitment day and was invited back for interview.

He went on to work for the venue during his final year of studies, progressing from bartender to team leader.

He said: “I really enjoy working at the Arena. The people are good, everyone is friendly and I love the equality at the Arena.

“The process was very easy to apply and not a stressful process at all. Since joining, I’ve been given many opportunities to progress, from leading a team behind the bar to working behind the guest services desk too.

“Working at the Arena has had a lasting impact on my confidence and communications skills too.

“I have graduated now, but I was able to fit the work around my studies. It has really helped me to grow, personally and professionally.”

Delice Kazadi, 25, Marketing Assistant at Coventry Building Society Arena capturing images for a campaign.

Delice Kazadi, 25, joined the venue when she was still in sixth form and is now an established member of the marketing team.

Delice began working at the Arena in 2018, taking on matchday shifts in hospitality before progressing onto the bar and later into The Mill. She continued working at the venue throughout her degree in Marketing at Birmingham City University.

She said: “The flexibility was really important for me. It helped me pay for small things like groceries, rent, clothes, books and supplies while I was studying. The Arena really understood the requirements of being at university.

“After graduating in 2022, I was still developing my skills every day at the Arena, talking to customers and being trusted with responsibility.”

Following encouragement from colleagues, Delice was introduced to the Arena’s sales and marketing team. She was offered a role within the marketing department and after only two years is now mentoring a new member of staff in the team.

Delice added: “The timing was perfect. The Arena gave me a chance when I really needed it. I’ve been given lots of opportunities to meet new people, work across different teams and continue developing.”

Paul Michael, Managing Director at Coventry Building Society Arena, added: “Supporting young people and creating opportunities for their professional growth is at the core of our business.

“Whether someone joins us for a few shifts or builds a long-term career in the venue, we are focused on providing an environment where people can develop skills and gain confidence.

“We are committed to opening doors for young people and highlighting that there are endless opportunities for careers in the hospitality and events sector.”

Find out more about casual recruitment opportunities at Coventry Building Society Arena - https://cbsarena.teamtailor.com/