NT Food & Drink is a unique and dynamic partnership driven by Levy and KERB, embedded within the National Theatre on the South Bank. Our ambition is to create a world-class hospitality destination at the heart of the world's most iconic theatre, powered by a progressive, people-first approach centered on environmental and social sustainability. We celebrate inclusivity with purpose, focusing on the development and progression of our future leaders. Our shared goal is to ensure all food and drink spaces support the NT's values, vision, and culture.
Job Overview
We are seeking an exceptional Head of Events Planning to lead the delivery of world-class events at the National Theatre. Reporting to the Sales & Events Director, you will oversee a diverse portfolio ranging from high-profile commercial events to creative, theatre-inspired experiences and prestigious internal functions. You will manage and inspire a dedicated planning team, ensuring seamless coordination of all event activities — from client liaison and function planning to financial management and supplier partnerships. Strong stakeholder management skills are essential to foster relationships across the National Theatre, our hospitality partners, and high-value clients, ensuring every event reflects the creativity and excellence of our venue.
Key Responsibilities
1. Event Planning & Coordination: Lead all aspects of event planning, from client requirements to detailed function sheets, interdepartmental communication, and onsite support.
2. Finance & Administration: Manage quotes, invoicing, finance trackers, supplier invoices, and payment reconciliation across systems.
3. Menu & Package Development: Collaborate with senior teams to create seasonal menus, event packages, and ticketed events that drive revenue.
4. Supplier Management: Negotiate tenders, commission agreements, and design add-on packages for entertainment, theming, and décor.
5. Client Relationship Management: Build strong relationships with high-net-worth clients, maintain repeat business, oversee CRM accuracy, and represent the venue at client events.
6. Stakeholder Engagement: Foster collaboration with key partners (e.g., KERB Food, Compass, NT departments) to ensure smooth event delivery.
7. Team & Cross-Department Support: Assist sales and operations teams as needed, ensuring seamless event execution and high service standards.
8. Sustainability & Innovation: Champion sustainable event practices and convert internal event opportunities into commercial growth.
Candidate Profile
* Proven experience in event planning/management, ideally in food & beverage or a cultural/heritage setting.
* Strong leadership skills with experience developing teams in events or hospitality.
* Excellent communication and client relationship-building skills.
* Highly organized, detail-focused, and able to manage multiple projects.
* Confident with budgets, financials, contracts, and invoicing.
* Proficient in CRM systems (Delphi preferred).
* Collaborative approach with internal teams and external partners.
* Flexible and adaptable to business needs and schedules.
* In-depth knowledge of hospitality industry trends.
* Professional, creative, and able to represent the business with credibility.
About Levy
Levy, part of Compass Group, is renowned for delivering exceptional food, drink, and hospitality experiences at venues like Wimbledon, Twickenham, and Tottenham Hotspur. Committed to sustainability, diversity, and inclusion, Levy sources sustainably, aims for Net Zero by 2027, and ensures all team members earn at least the Real or London Living Wage.
Why Join Us?
At Levy UK & Ireland, we celebrate diversity and foster inclusion, valuing every individual's strengths. Our team drives creativity, innovation, and success, promoting fairness, hearing every voice, and offering equal opportunities. Join us to create a supportive, equitable workplace where everyone can thrive and contribute. Together, we achieve greatness.
Employee Benefits
* Healthcare & Wellbeing: Medicash health benefits, free health check, discounts at Nuffield Health & Pure Gym, Employee Assistance Programme.
* Perks & Discounts: Cinema tickets, shopping discounts, Vodafone plans, travel deals.
* Workplace Benefits: Meals on duty, pension, life assurance, subscriptions.
* Leave & Family Support: 23 days + bank holidays, your birthday off, extra leave after maternity, baby's first birthday day off, holiday purchase scheme.
* Career & Financial Support: Training, career pathways, financial wellbeing programs, salary finance rates.
* Exclusive Discounts: 15% off outlets, 25% off Bookshop, show tickets, food & drink discounts, onsite parking (£4/day).
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