Deputy Conference & Events Manager

We have a fantastic opportunity to join the team at Manchester’s iconic and prestigious international concert venue. Built to give the best possible space for music, we also provide a unique and exciting environment for a diverse range of conference and events.

ASM Global is the operating company responsible for managing the Bridgewater Hall and contracted by Manchester City Council. As operators of the Hall, ASM Global Europe is committed to creating a diverse programme of outstanding music and events for the ten million people who live near the Hall. We are in the business of creating a complete and positive experience for our customers from the moment they become aware of us to the time they recount the visit to others. Each ASM Global Europe employee carries the responsibility for maintaining these high standards.

Purpose

To support the Conference & Events Sales Manager in the supervision of all aspects associated with conference and other event related business at The Bridgewater Hall. In particular, focusing on maximising usage of the venue's facilities and services whilst taking into consideration all restrictions and boundaries placed on the venue.

Main areas of responsibility

• To assist the Conference & Events Sales Manager in developing and converting sales opportunities, including lead generation and, where possible, any other commercial sales opportunities to achieve and succeed allocated budgets.
• As part of the department, deal with incoming enquiries via all media (telephone, facsimile, e-mail and walk-in) accordingly, and conduct sales and familiarisation visits with prospective clients.
• To be responsible for the management of the diary system, in association with other departments, and to maximise the availability of the diary in conjunction with the Venue Scheduling team, along with analysis of progress and conversion of all provisional business.
• To establish, maintain and develop effective working relationships with external agencies, companies and individuals.
• Produce event details and charges sheets and supervise administrative aspects of conference and other event related business, including but not limited to; contracting new bookings, invoice generation, maintaining and updating sales reports and the production of sales demographic reports.
• To ensure the effective communication of client requirements to all relevant internal departments and service providers, including the production of weekly event schedules and all updates.
• To oversee and, where required, assist with the on-site operational supervision of all conference and other event related business.
• To assist the Conference & Events Sales Manager in the development and maintenance of all systems and procedures in relation to conference and other event related business, including service levels and standards, in association with all relevant departments and service providers.
• To assist the Conference & Events Sales Manager in pro-actively promoting and marketing, internally and externally, all commercial activities through appropriate media with the allocated budget.
• To provide support to Conference & Events Sales Manager as may be required by the needs of the business, including deputising in their absence.
• To attend and exhibit at industry expos and networking events in order to promote the venue and make connections with potential clients.
• To proactively analyse, maintain and develop existing and previous client relationships through a range of activities and communications.
• Any other duties as directed by the Conference & Events Manager.

Person Specification

• A strong background in the supervision, administration and organisation of conference/events operations.
• Experience of proactively seeking out new business opportunities, and/or developing client relationships.
• Proven negotiation and sales experience.
• The ability to project manage a number of activities at the same time.
• Excellent administration and organisational skills.
• Examples of self -motivation and ability to work on own initiative.
• Experience of building and sustaining good internal working relationships.
• Creativity and the ability to work as part of team or on an individual basis.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• Smart appearance and good presentation.
• Excellent written, telephone and interpersonal skills.
• A working knowledge of Microsoft Office.

The following attributes would be advantageous;

• Knowledge of menu planning, catering operations and wine.
• Knowledge in the use of a variety of different types of audio visual equipment.
• Previous experience of team management.
• An understanding of the Health and Safety issues related to event management.
• An understanding of other legal issues related to building operations.
• Knowledge of Event Booking, the central diary system used by the venue.

General Information

The requirements of the business are such that a high degree of flexibility is necessary and therefore some evening and weekend work will be required.