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Events Operations Manager (Arts and Culture)

Location: Northern Ireland, County Antrim, Newtownabbey

Industry: Public Sector

Salary: Up to £21.34 per hour

Contacts: Ashlea Forsack, hive@honeycomb.jobs

Job Ref: BBBH66280

Expiry date: 2026-11-13


Honeycomb is delighted to be working with a large public sector organisation to recruit a temporary Events Operations Manager. This role will be based within the Arts and Culture sector and offers an immediate start. The role is based in Newtownabbey.

The Role

The Events Operations Manager will be responsible for overseeing day-to-day operations of cultural venues, theatre, conferencing and events. You will lead and support operational staff, coordinate a varied programme of events, manage venue bookings and client relationships, and ensure the delivery of safe, efficient and customer-focused services.

Key Responsibilities

  • Oversee the day-to-day operation, safety, security and presentation of theatre, cultural and conferencing facilities.
  • Plan, coordinate and deliver conferences, performances, civic functions, cultural events and seasonal programmes, ensuring effective operational arrangements.
  • Supervise and coordinate front-of-house, events, cleaning and duty staff, including staff rotas, on-call cover and training.
  • Act as a key point of contact for clients and visitors, managing enquiries, bookings, site visits and customer requirements while delivering excellent customer service.
  • Manage venue hire bookings and coordinate room layouts, catering, audiovisual and IT requirements, working with internal departments, contractors and external providers.
  • Ensure compliance with health and safety legislation and policies, including risk assessments, fire safety, building inspections and safe working practices.
  • Oversee financial administration, cash handling, reconciliations, procurement, stock control and the effective use of operational resources.
  • Contribute to service business plans, budget estimates and performance monitoring, identifying opportunities to improve services and achieve departmental objectives.
  • Build effective working relationships with internal departments, contractors, suppliers and event organisers to ensure the smooth and successful delivery of services.

The Person

The successful candidate will be an experienced, customer-focused professional with strong supervisory and organisational skills and a passion for arts, culture, events and conferencing.

Essential Criteria

  • 5 GCSEs grades A-C or equivalent, including English and Maths
  • 2 years of supervisory experience in a customer-focused industry (Arts, Leisure, Theatre, Conferencing, Performance or Events)
  • An interest in the Arts and Culture sector
  • Good knowledge of health and safety legislation

Desirable Criteria:

  • 2 years of management experience within the Arts and Culture sector
  • Experience using booking management systems
  • Experience dealing with the public

The Package and Benefits

  • 3-month temporary position with the opportunity for extension
  • Immediate start, based in Newtownabbey
  • 37 hours per week, Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, and Saturday and Sunday either 11:30 am to 6:00 pm or 5:30 pm to 11:00 pm
  • Opportunity to gain valuable experience within a large public sector organisation
  • Hourly rate of £21.34

To apply in confidence, please submit your CV via the link provided or contact Ashlea Parte for more information.

Please note: Successful candidates may need to complete a Basic or Enhanced Access NI check (fee of £18+). A previous conviction will not automatically prevent appointment; all disclosures are managed confidentially.

If you have a disability which means you require assistance at any stage of the recruitment process, please contact us directly to discuss. Honeycomb is committed to providing equality of opportunity to all.

Please note that we are currently receiving an exceptionally high volume of applications and will be unable to shortlist candidates who do not meet the specific requirements for this role. Due to this volume, we may be unable to provide individual feedback. We thank you in advance for your understanding.

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