Commercial Event Duty Manager

Summary

The role of the Commercial Event Duty Manager is to support the smooth running of private hires and commercial events within the theatre and Backstage. Depending on the requirements of the event, the level of support will vary – up to and including full duty management from start to finish.

More Details

Department/Team Food & Beverage

Contract Permanent. We would like you to commit to a minimum number of shifts per month (3-4) and can discuss this at interview (additional shifts may be available depending on the event calendar)

Working hours Shifts are scheduled on a rota basis, Mon-Sun, between the approximate hours of 4pm-11pm. Shift length may vary depending on the length of the event.

Location The Old Vic, The Cut, London, SE1 8NB

Hourly rate £18.47 per hour

Responsible to Head of Food & Beverage Operations

Direct reports Operational management of the event staff for the duration of the event/shift

Areas of responsibility

Client Management

  • Where required, acting as the primary point of contact for the client (e.g. corporate sponsors), actioning any requests and responding to any questions or concerns as necessary.
  • Responding quickly and calmly to ad-hoc requests, including for additional setup, off-menu drinks, etc.
  • Where necessary, seeking approval from the Head of Commercial Event Sales, Head of F&B Operations or the client’s main point of contact for ad-hoc requests that would incur costs (such as off-menu drinks).
  • Liaising with internal and external senior stakeholders to facilitate speeches confidently and politely.

Supplier Management

  • Acting as the primary point of contact between the client and all suppliers (e.g. caterer, band, etc.)
  • Supervising the setup and operation of the field kitchen, including coordination of power connections and the isolation/reactivation of smoke heads, while liaising closely with the in-house facilities team to ensure safe and compliant operations.
  • Delivering health and safety briefings to all relevant staff and contractors
  • Representing The Old Vic to suppliers and ensuring the building and show takes precedence, in terms of limiting noise, etc.

Event Set-up & Logistics

  • Full management of the event from an event logistics and set-up perspective.
  • Preparing each event space (including any bar provision) in accordance with the specifics of the Events Booking Form, in good time.
  • Overseeing the get-in of each space, and ensuring pack-down is efficient and well-managed, leaving the event spaces tidily and as found.
  • Liaising with other members of The Old Vic team, (e.g. Sound, Lighting, Stage) to confidently ensure all aspects of set-up are carried out.
  • Maintaining regular communication with the client and suppliers to ensure their satisfaction throughout the event.
  • At the end of each event, completing a comprehensive Events Duty Manager Report and circulating to the correct recipient list.

Team Management

  • Full management of the supporting Event Team – including ensuring that the team is smartly presented, that they are all carrying out their role efficiently and to a high standard, and troubleshooting any queries.
  • Directing each team member with specific tasks so that responsibilities and deliverables are clear.
  • Where possible, cost-saving and maximising efficiency by sending members of the Event Team home early.

General

  • Promoting and complying with current legislation and The Old Vic policies on Diversity, Sustainability, and Health & Safety – both in the delivery of services and the treatment of others.
  • Undertaking any other reasonable duties, commensurate with the level of the post to ensure the smooth running of The Old Vic.

This is not an exhaustive list of duties and the Theatre’s management may, at any time, allocate other tasks which are of a similar nature or level.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

The post holder must be able to demonstrate the following:

Essential

  • Previous event duty management experience in a similar environment
  • Proven experience of leading a team in an on-the-ground capacity.
  • A proven ability to provide a high level of customer service in an often highly pressurised environment.
  • Highly motivated with a positive and flexible approach to work and ability to adapt quickly to new information and procedures.
  • Good timekeeping.
  • A proven ability to work as both part of a team and independently.

The successful candidate will be required to undergo a DBS check as the role may interact with vulnerable adults and/or children.

Organisation

The Old Vic

Location Type

Specific location

Salary Type

Hourly paid

Hourly Rate

18.47

Closing Date

23/11/2025

Contract Type

Permanent, Part Time

Job Type

Box Office, Front of House & Hospitality