Sales & Events Manager

First Group; London; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the UK rail sector is seeking an Event Manager to drive event revenue and ensure seamless execution of events at the iconic London Cable Car. This role involves managing the full sales cycle, coordinating logistics, and overseeing operations to deliver exceptional customer experiences while ensuring compliance with health and safety standards.

Qualifications

• Strong sales skills with a proven track record in event bookings.
• Excellent planning and coordination abilities.
• Experience in operational management and logistics.

Responsibilities

• Drive event sales and manage the full sales cycle.
• Oversee planning and execution of events.
• Monitor event revenue and ensure financial targets are met.

Skills

Sales and business development

Event planning and coordination

Operational management

Customer service

Negotiation

Leadership

Problem-solving

Attention to detail

Financial acumen

Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite

Education

Degree in Events Management, Hospitality, Business

Job description

Who are we?

First Rail is one of the UK's most experienced rail operators, carrying more than 345 million passengers across our franchises (Great Western Railway, South Western Railway, and Avanti West Coast) and our open access operators (Hull Trains and Lumo). We operate all types of passenger railways - intercity, commuter, regional, and sleeper services.

The IFS Cloud Cable Car combines transport with a visitor attraction. Linking North Greenwich Peninsula and the Royal Docks, it is the only urban cable car in the UK and transports guests on a 1.2 km journey across the River Thames between two terminals at a height of 90m.

About the job

This role is responsible for driving event revenue while ensuring seamless execution from planning to delivery. The role involves managing the full sales cycle, from generating leads and securing bookings to coordinating logistics and overseeing on-the-day operations. The manager works closely with clients to tailor event experiences, ensuring high satisfaction levels while maintaining operational efficiency and profitability. Additionally, they collaborate with internal teams and external suppliers to uphold quality standards, health and safety compliance, and brand reputation. Balancing commercial and operational priorities, this role is key to delivering exceptional events that support business growth and enhance customer experience.

Your main responsibilities will be:

Event Sales & Business Development

• Drive event sales by identifying new business opportunities and managing the full sales cycle, from lead generation to contract negotiation.
• Develop and maintain relationships with corporate clients, travel trade partners, and key stakeholders to maximize bookings and revenue.
• Create tailored event packages to improve customer experience and increase sales.
• Develop and implement a comprehensive event sales strategy for the attraction from scratch.

Event Planning & Coordination

• Oversee end-to-end planning of private and corporate events, ensuring smooth execution.
• Work closely with clients to understand their requirements and deliver customized event solutions.
• Coordinate with internal teams (Guest Experience, Operations, Transport for London Marketing) and external suppliers to meet logistical and operational needs.

Operational Execution & On-the-Day Management

• Lead the delivery of events, ensuring all elements run smoothly and to high standards.
• Manage operations team and temporary agency colleagues, briefing teams on event-specific requirements, and ensuring a seamless guest experience.
• Handle on-the-day challenges, making real-time decisions to maintain service quality and customer satisfaction.

Financial & Performance Management

• Monitor event revenue, budgets, and profitability, ensuring financial targets are met.
• Track and analyze event performance, using data and client feedback to refine offerings and improve future events.
• Ensure accurate and efficient handling of invoicing, payments, and financial documentation.

Health, Safety & Compliance

• Ensure all events comply with health and safety regulations, licensing, and company policies.
• Conduct risk assessments and implement measures to maintain a safe environment for guests and staff.
• Liaise with regulatory bodies as required for full compliance with industry standards.

Marketing & Brand Collaboration

• Work with TfL Marketing to promote event packages and experiences at the London Cable Car.
• Develop promotional campaigns, sales materials, and partnerships to attract new business.
• Represent the London Cable Car at networking events, trade shows, and industry conferences to enhance brand awareness and drive sales.

Requirements

• Strong sales and business development skills, with a proven track record in securing event bookings and driving revenue.
• Excellent event planning and coordination abilities for seamless execution.
• Operational management skills, overseeing logistics and on-the-day delivery.
• Customer service and client relationship management skills ensuring guest satisfaction.
• Negotiation skills for contracts and pricing to maximize profitability.
• Leadership and team management experience, directing event staff and cross-functional teams.
• Problem-solving and decision-making abilities in high-pressure environments.
• Attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Understanding of health and safety regulations and risk management.
• Financial acumen for managing budgets and sales performance.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.

Minimum requirements

• Degree or equivalent experience in Events Management, Hospitality, Business, or related fields (desirable).
• Proven experience in event sales and operations, preferably within a visitor attraction, hospitality, or tourism setting.
• Experience working with corporate clients, travel trade, and event agencies (highly desirable).
• Knowledge of marketing and promotional strategies for event sales.
• Familiarity with licensing, health & safety regulations, and venue compliance.