Senior Event Planner | National Theatre

Compass Group; London; On-site; GBP 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A major catering service in London is seeking a Head of Event Planning to oversee world-class events at the National Theatre. The ideal candidate will have proven event management experience, strong leadership abilities, and exceptional relationship management skills. This position offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits, including healthcare and career development opportunities.

Benefits

Healthcare

Wellbeing discounts

Exclusive perks

Career development opportunities

Qualifications

• Proven experience in event planning/management, ideally in food & beverage or cultural settings.
• Strong leadership and team development skills.
• Excellent communication and client relationship skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead all aspects of event planning, from client requirements to detailed function sheets.
• Manage quotes, invoicing, finance trackers, supplier invoices, and payments.
• Collaborate to create seasonal menus and event packages.

Skills

Event planning/management

Leadership

Communication

Organizational skills

CRM proficiency

Tools

Delphi CRM

Job description

Head of Event Planning | National Theatre

Head of Event Planning - National Theatre
£45,000 per annum plus benefits

NT Food & Drink is a unique partnership driven by Levy and KERB, embedded within the National Theatre on the South Bank. Our ambition is to create a world-class hospitality destination at the heart of the iconic theatre, powered by a people-first approach focused on sustainability. We celebrate inclusivity and prioritize the development of future leaders. Our goal is to ensure all food and drink spaces support the NT's values, vision, and culture.

Purpose

We seek an exceptional Head of Events Planning to lead delivery of world-class events at the National Theatre. Reporting to the Sales & Events Director, you will oversee a diverse portfolio, including high-profile commercial events, creative theatre-inspired experiences, and prestigious internal functions.

You will manage and inspire a dedicated planning team, ensuring seamless coordination from client liaison and event planning to financial management and supplier partnerships. Strong stakeholder management skills are essential to foster relationships across the National Theatre, hospitality partners, and high-value clients, ensuring every event reflects the venue's creativity and excellence.

This is a hands-on leadership role for an experienced events professional with outstanding organizational, commercial, and client relationship skills, thriving in a fast-paced, creative environment.

Responsibilities

• Event Planning & Coordination: Lead all aspects of event planning, from client requirements to detailed function sheets, interdepartmental communication, and on-site support.
• Finance & Administration: Manage quotes, invoicing, finance trackers, supplier invoices, and payments.
• Menu & Package Development: Collaborate to create seasonal menus and event packages that drive revenue.
• Supplier Management: Negotiate tenders and agreements for entertainment, theming, and décor.
• Client Relationship Management: Build strong relationships with high-net-worth clients, maintain CRM accuracy, and represent the venue at events.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Foster collaboration with partners like KERB Food, Compass, and NT departments.
• Team & Cross-Department Support: Support sales and operations teams to ensure seamless event execution.
• Sustainability & Innovation: Promote sustainable event practices and convert internal opportunities into growth.

Requirements

• Proven experience in event planning/management, ideally in food & beverage or cultural settings
• Strong leadership and team development skills
• Excellent communication and client relationship skills
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple projects
• Confident with budgets, financials, contracts, and invoicing
• Proficient in CRM systems (Delphi preferred)
• Collaborative, flexible, and adaptable to business needs
• Deep knowledge of hospitality industry trends
• Professional, creative, and credible representation of the business

Benefits

Includes healthcare, wellbeing discounts, exclusive perks, workplace benefits, generous leave, career development, and special discounts at the National Theatre and partner venues.

About Levy

Levy, part of Compass Group, is renowned for delivering exceptional hospitality experiences at major venues worldwide. Committed to sustainability, diversity, and inclusion, Levy aims for Net Zero by 2027 and pays all team members at least the Real or London Living Wage.

Why Join Us?

We celebrate diversity and foster inclusion, creating a supportive workplace where everyone can thrive. Join us in achieving greatness together.