Events Manager at British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA)
Join to apply for the Events Manager role at BIAZA. The position is based at Dartmoor Zoological Society, South West.
Contact: Clare Lee (clare.lee@dartmoorzoo.co.uk)
Closing date: 7th December 2025
Role Description
The main focus of this role is to plan, organise and oversee the running of events at the Zoo. These will include, but are not limited to, conferences, corporate team building, weddings, private functions, parties, fundraising events, evening events (such as Roar & Snore) and seasonally focused events. This is a key role that will provide our charity with vital revenue as well as a dynamic, fun and engaging annual programme of events. You will join our team at a time when we are looking to diversify and revitalise our entire events programme through innovation and imagination.
The role would suit an ambitious and innovative Events Manager who is ready for the challenge of maximising the potential of our 33‑acre Zoo!
Working Hours & Benefits
* Full-time, 5 days per week (37.5 hours). Part‑time will be considered.
* Days are allocated on a rota system to meet the needs of the events.
* Annual leave: 30 days (including bank holidays).
* Wage: Dependent on experience.
* Benefits: Enhanced sick absence, maternity, paternity and adoption leave; restaurant and shop discounts; free zoo entrance for immediate family, and free entry to other BIAZA zoos; free parking; assistance in finding accommodation if you need to relocate.
* Reporting to: Head of Operations.
Main Tasks
* Design and deliver an annual, in‑zoo, events programme including conceptualising, planning, managing and leading events from inception through to delivery.
* Ensure that outstanding customer service is being delivered on all events, and that any queries, issues or complaints are resolved professionally in a timely manner.
* Be the principal contact for clients, including preparing quotations, contract paperwork, upselling and negotiating bookings.
* Work with your Line Manager, the Head of Operations, to ensure all events achieve pre‑agreed profit margins and that reporting on your area of responsibility is delivered in a timely and agreed manner.
* Work with the Head of Operations to devise a system of continual feedback and improvement to maximise customer satisfaction and profitability across your area of responsibility.
* Work with the Head of Operations to generate and develop new ideas for events and income generation.
* Work with our Marketing Team to design and implement an effective Marketing strategy for events, including networking, lead generation and enquiry/sales tracking. Provide the Marketing team with timely event information to allow them to organise marketing campaigns and materials. Regularly review relevant marketing collateral with the Marketing Manager to ensure it is kept up to date and effective.
* Work cooperatively with fellow managers to ensure the effective and efficient management, training and planning of shared staffing, physical resources, products and menus for events. Include preparation of rotas and management of line‑managed staff in adherence to charity policies and procedures.
* Facilitate regular "Events" meetings with Department Heads and Managers throughout the zoo to ensure optimal communication, organisation and positive working relationships across departments.
* Oversee training and development of the 'Celebrations' party host team.
* Develop a network of approved providers to support the delivery of events (e.g. marquee providers, equipment hire, DJ and bands, florists, etc.) and maintain strong relationships.
* Seek out and form connections with networks of external volunteers and/or placement students to help support the delivery of large events at the Zoo.
* Research similar organisations to maintain knowledge of current industry trends and "Bench Mark" our offer against others.
* Undertake any other tasks that may be required from time‑to‑time consistent with the nature and scope of the post.
Employment Criteria
* Have experience of working within a catering & events industry at supervisory level.
* Be able to demonstrate management and leadership skills.
* Have experience of turning leads into bookings and sales confidence at events and over the phone.
* Possess excellent interpersonal skills to build close working relationships with customers, colleagues and suppliers.
* Have proven outstanding organisational skills.
* Be able to work flexible hours including evenings, weekends and holidays.
* Have good skills in computer literacy and a proficient working knowledge of Microsoft Office systems. It would also help if you have:
* Knowledge and experience of developing and costing events and menus.
* Hold a Food Hygiene certificate.
* Have experience of working in a Zoo setting or as part of an organisation with strong ethical focus, charity connection or educational elements.
Apply for This Job
Full details can be found on our website at dartmoorzoo.org.uk/job-vacancies/ or email Clare Lee (clare.lee@dartmoorzoo.co.uk).
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