Events Executive
Location: RHS Garden Wisley
Up to £32,000 per annum + performance related bonus
Permanent, Full-Time, 5 out of 7 days per week
As Events Executive, you will be responsible for securing all catering sales, coordinating all aspects of the food and beverage bookings, and overseeing the operational delivery of exceptional hospitality and event experiences across RHS Wisley. Working alongside the RHS Wisley Events Team, the position requires a proactive approach to converting and maximizing all catering sales opportunities. The role involves creating innovative and bespoke catering proposals to exceed customer expectations, efficiently responding to and managing RHS Wisley internal and group bookings, and ensuring that all catering event details are collated, documented, and communicated to the operations team in a timely manner.
What Can We Offer You
* A collaborative and inclusive culture where your ideas are valued and creativity is encouraged.
* The chance to work in a truly beautiful and inspiring setting surrounded by nature and stunning gardens.
* 25 days annual leave (excluding bank holidays and national holiday days).
* Discretionary performance related bonus.
* Free parking on site.
* Free staff meals whilst at work.
* Access to Compass Group company perks & benefits.
* Perks for Works discounts and promotions.
* Access to training, mentoring and development, with support from our wider Restaurant Associates and Compass Group UK networks.
* On-site F&B discounts.
Responsibilities
* Act as the main liaison between the Events Team, external and internal clients to deliver seamless, professional event planning and execution.
* Manage all event enquiries promptly, providing tailored catering proposals and exceptional client service, and proactively follow up to achieve conversion expectations.
* Prepare accurate and engaging event proposals, menus, and costings in line with company pricing policies and meet margin targets.
* Send contracts, T&Cs and invoices and ensure all relevant documentation is received.
* Take responsibility for catering upselling strategy and achieve agreed upselling targets.
* Maintain up-to-date event menus, pricing, and collateral, ensuring all departments have the latest information.
* Coordinate and attend client tastings, site visits, and meetings, accurately recording and communicating client preferences, dietary needs, and special requests.
* Manage all event logistics, including catering orders, equipment hire, staffing schedules, and supplier coordination.
* Oversee the timely collection and confirmation of event details — final menu selection, guest numbers, seating plans, and access arrangements — ensuring all are finalised at least one week prior to the event.
* Produce, distribute, and communicate accurate catering event details, proactively coordinating with culinary and operations teams for successful delivery; lead weekly events meetings.
* Conduct thorough daily briefs with relevant culinary and operational team members before each event to communicate updates and ensure clarity on all operational details.
* Collaborate closely with chefs, operations managers, and service teams to ensure all event elements are executed with excellence.
* Lead and coordinate the operational team during event setup and execution to guarantee smooth delivery and client satisfaction.
* Build and maintain strong professional relationships with external clients, the RHS Wisley Events Team, and all internal departments to ensure every detail of each event is delivered to the highest standard.
* Actively encourage and use customer feedback to build action plans for continuous improvement, resolving issues and maintaining the company’s reputation.
* Ensure full payments are received in line with company payment terms; support finance team in processing invoices and event financial summaries.
* Accurately record and communicate all event costs; ensure procurement follows approved suppliers and channels.
* Support with promotional and marketing collateral for seasonal packages.
* Identify opportunities for C&E sales growth and work collaboratively with the team to implement.
* Always adhere to all Health & Safety and Food Hygiene regulations; maintain a safe and hygienic working environment for staff and clients.
* Report any hazards, maintenance issues, or incidents promptly to the Head of Operations.
The Ideal Candidate
* Experience in C&E event planning processes and procedures.
* Must have C&E operational experience.
* Sales focus with an ability to recognize and maximise sales opportunities.
* Can self‑manage workload and work flexibly, as the role is both office‑based and operational within the venue.
* Excellent at establishing positive working relationships and communicating effectively at all levels.
* Demonstrates initiative, commitment, drive and ambition to deliver and be a confident decision‑maker.
* Shows a thorough approach to work with great attention to detail.
* Excellent customer service skills with a strong desire for continuous improvement and guest satisfaction.
* Is an effective team player with an entrepreneurial, outgoing personality.
* Has proven experience working within a partnership‑led venue such as a cultural attraction, heritage site or visitor destination.
About Us
Restaurant Associates is a leading premium hospitality provider with an ethos drawn from our history of fine and high‑quality dining in London and New York. We provide catering and hospitality services to iconic visitor attractions and destinations across the UK, and we pride ourselves on being an inclusive, diverse, fun, and dynamic place to work. We are committed to sustainability‑led practices and have achieved 3 stars with the Sustainable Restaurant Association’s Food Made Good Programme.
Restaurant Associates is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from candidates of all backgrounds.
#J-18808-Ljbffr