Head of Events and Conferencing

Commercial hires are a vital and growing proportion of WTM’s income, supporting WTM to achieve its charitable objectives and secure the long term financial sustainability of the charity. We are seeking a commercially minded, driven individual who can bring a fresh perspective to maximising the profitability of the portfolio.

The post will be responsible for creating and delivering a strategy for hires which raises the profile of the venues and optimising their financial return, focussing principally on hiring out our unique venues for weddings, life events and other private hires, as well as product launches, trade fairs and conventions, corporate functions, charity fundraisers, community and school performances and filming opportunities.

The role will be required to undertake proactive sales and will be responsible for delivering against a significant financial target. The postholder will need to quickly build strong relationships to successfully deliver on growth targets.

Essential Experience, Skills and Knowledge

• Significant experience of commercial venue hire with a track record of maximising profitability through events and conferencing and other associated income streams
• Business acumen.
• Financially astute with experience of effectively managing budgets and financial projections to ensure the best use of resources through prioritisation and planning.
• Proven people and communication skills and an ability to negotiate and persuade, both internally and with suppliers and other commercial partners, to deliver high returns.
• Experience of effective use and development of a CRM system to maximise sales.
• Understanding of exceptional customer care.
• Experience and understanding of relevant business licensing regulations including those relating to events and entertainment.
• A proven strong track record in using data to drive decision making.
• Experience in procurement and negotiating contracts. 
• Ability to work at a conceptual level as well as hands on delivery.
• Understanding of broader management functions beyond individual departments and applying a generous collaborative approach. 
• Proven ability to manage and inspire a team.
• Effective conflict and change management skills.
• Practical knowledge of risk management.
• Able to prioritise the urgent and important, and proven ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Proven project management skills.
• Proven ability to write and present reports.
• Creative and proactive approach to problem solving.
• Skilled in the use of Microsoft Office and/or Google equivalent and department specific software
• Up-to-date knowledge of GDPR.
• Willingness to work flexibly in line with the needs of the business and be available for some evening, weekend and bank holiday work.
• Commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion practice and behaviour
• Understanding of sustainability practice and how to apply this within the role responsibilities.

22/06/2025