Job: Venue Events Manager
Location: The Merchants’ Hall, 22 Hanover Street, Edinburgh 📍
Job Type: Full-Time
Salary: £30-35k 💰
Reports To: Membership, Events & Communications Director 📊
Closing Date To Apply: Friday 20th June
Date of Interview: Thursday 3rd July
Overview:
The Royal Company of Merchants of the City of Edinburgh is a prestigious charitable organisation with over 300 years of history. Originally founded to protect the trading rights of merchants in Edinburgh, the Company has evolved into a modern network of business and professional members, dedicated to supporting the community through charitable work and education.
Our historic headquarters, Merchants’ Hall, is one of Edinburgh’s architectural gems. Commercial bookings and events at the Hall are managed through Merchant Hall Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company, which handles venue hire and provides exceptional service to a wide range of clients.
We are seeking a dynamic and results-driven Venue Events Manager to join our team. This individual will be responsible for driving revenue by securing and managing event bookings for our venue. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in sales, business development and event coordination with a passion for delivering exceptional client experiences. The successful candidate must demonstrate flexibility, as evening and weekend work will be required in line with event schedules and operational needs.
Key Responsibilities:
• Develop and implement sales strategies to attract corporate events, weddings, private parties, membership events and other special occasions.
• Proactively identify and pursue new business opportunities through networking and partnerships.
• Support the Royal Company of Merchants events team with high profile Company events.
• Manage the entire sales cycle, from initial enquiry and site visits to contract negotiation and finalising event details. • Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, suppliers and industry professionals.
• Collaborate with the catering event partners to ensure seamless execution of booked events.
• Prepare and present sales reports, forecasts, and performance metrics to management.
• Maintain an up-to-date CRM/database of leads, prospects, and clients.
• Stay current on industry trends, competitor offerings, and emerging opportunities.
• Ensure excellent customer service and client satisfaction throughout the planning process.
• Assist with marketing initiatives, including social media promotions, digital campaigns, and event showcases.
Qualifications & Experience:
• Proven experience in event sales, hospitality or a related industry.
• Strong negotiation, communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently, meet sales targets and manage multiple clients simultaneously.
• Knowledge of event planning, venue operations and catering services is a plus.
• Proficiency in CRM software, Microsoft Office Suite.
• A results-oriented mindset with a creative passion for delivering memorable event experiences.
Benefits:
• Competitive salary. 💵
• Generous holiday allowance and TOIL structure. 🌴
• Good pension provision. 🏦
• Professional development and networking opportunities. 📚
• A vibrant and supportive work environment. 🙌
If you are a motivated and enthusiastic sales professional with a passion for events, we would love to hear from you. Apply today by sending your CV and cover letter to events.team@mcoe.org.uk 📧 Please note that we will ONLY consider applications sent to the email address specified.