Venue Manager
About Delamere Manor
Delamere Manor is a luxury country estate and one of Cheshire's most sought-after exclusive-use wedding venues. Set within 100 acres of countryside, the business is known for its premium positioning, exceptional guest experience and distinctive setting.
As the business enters its next phase, we are seeking a commercially driven Venue Director to stabilise, strengthen and scale the existing operation.
About the Role
This is a senior leadership role focused on performance, accountability and sustainable growth.
The successful candidate will take full operational responsibility for the day-to-day performance of Delamere Manor, ensuring:
• Revenue targets are achieved
• Conversion rates improve
• Costs are controlled
• Team performance is structured and measurable
• Brand standards are protected
• A professional, accountable culture is embedded
You will work in partnership with the Managing Director to deliver the agreed strategic direction of the business. Final strategic authority remains with the Managing Director.
Core Responsibilities
1. Commercial Performance & Revenue Growth
• Accountable for delivering agreed annual revenue targets
• Responsible for improving enquiry handling, showround performance and booking conversion rates
• Monitor and report weekly on pipeline activity, sales KPIs and forecasting
• Drive structured sales management across the team
• Identify and implement commercial opportunities to increase revenue per wedding
• Ensure pricing strategy is implemented consistently and confidently
Success in this role will be measured by revenue growth, conversion improvement and gross profit performance.
2. Operational Excellence
• Take full responsibility for daily venue operations
• Implement and enforce clear Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
• Ensure all departments operate efficiently and consistently
• Maintain compliance across all licensing, health & safety and regulatory requirements
• Oversee rotas and staffing levels in line with forecasted business levels
• Maintain premium presentation standards across the estate
The focus is on consistency, professionalism and disciplined execution.
3. Team Leadership & Culture Reset
• Lead, manage and hold all department heads accountable for results
• Conduct structured weekly leadership meetings and regular one-to-ones
• Set clear KPIs for each department and monitor performance against them
• Address underperformance quickly and professionally
• Support recruitment, onboarding and training where required
• Create a culture of ownership, respect and accountability
The Venue Director will be responsible for re-establishing high standards of professionalism and performance across the team.
4. Financial Control
• Work alongside the Managing Director and Finance Director to monitor financial performance
• Manage labour costs in line with forecast and revenue
• Monitor departmental spend and margin performance
• Ensure GP targets are maintained across F&B and bar
Commercial awareness and cost discipline are essential.
5. Brand & Guest Experience
• Protect and elevate Delamere Manor's premium positioning
• Ensure guest experience standards are consistently delivered
• Maintain awareness of competitor activity and market positioning
• Ensure brand values are embedded in daily operations
Key Performance Indicators
Performance will be measured against:
• Revenue targets
• Booking conversion rates
• Labour cost control
• Gross profit margins
• Team engagement and retention
• Operational compliance
• Guest satisfaction metrics
Person Specification
The ideal candidate will have:
• Proven experience managing a premium hospitality or wedding venue
• Strong commercial and financial acumen
• A track record of improving performance and implementing structure
• Experience managing sales teams and conversion metrics
• Confidence in CRM and reporting systems
• The ability to balance firmness with emotional intelligence
• A hands-on leadership style
• High personal standards and integrity
This is not a passive management role. We are seeking a proactive leader who is confident setting expectations and delivering results.
Benefits
• Competitive salary
• Performance-based bonus
• 28 days holiday including bank holidays
• Optional pension scheme
• Potential pathway to increased leadership responsibility based on performance