Venue Development Manager

We are looking for a Venue Development Manager to lead the growth and delivery of the venue hire function at The River Centre in Kent.

This role combines strategic business development with hands on event delivery, helping position The River Centre as a sought after venue for corporate events, conferences and community gatherings.

The role operates with a high level of autonomy, reporting to the Operations Director, and requires both strong commercial awareness and practical event leadership. You will play a key part in developing systems, partnerships and processes that support sustainable income growth, while personally overseeing the full lifecycle of events from enquiry through to delivery.

This is a part time role initially (2 days per week) with flexibility across the week depending on site visits and event delivery. Hours may increase over time as booking demand grows.

What You Will Be Responsible For

Growth & Business Development

• Develop and implement a clear strategy to position The River Centre within the venue hire market.
• Generate, track and convert leads across corporate, conference and community sectors.
• Review and maintain pricing structures and budgets annually.
• Develop and maintain marketing assets including website content and social media presence.
• Establish CRM systems and data processes to support sustainable growth and reporting.
• Build relationships with suppliers, booking platforms and referral partners.
• Create and maintain relevant policies, procedures and performance indicators.

End to End Event Management

• Lead the full delivery of venue hire events from enquiry through to post event evaluation.
• Manage contracts, client specifications, financials and supplier negotiations.
• Ensure compliance with licensing, health and safety and risk management requirements.
• Coordinate casual staff and external suppliers as needed.
• Maintain a high standard of client experience and operational delivery.
• Monitor budgets and report on event profitability and performance.
• Be present on site during events, overseeing set up, delivery and pack down.
• Ensure the building is reset appropriately for church services and internal use.

Additional Responsibilities

Additional tasks may be assigned from time to time by the Operations Director, including conference and event related responsibilities.

What We Are Looking For

Education

• Degree or qualification in Event Management preferred.
• Health and Safety qualification desirable or willingness to obtain.

Character & Values

• A personal relationship and commitment to Jesus Christ.
• Alignment with the vision and growth of Hillsong Church, including regular in person Sunday attendance and involvement in church life.
• A commitment to unity, teamwork and trust.
• Spiritual maturity, humility and generosity in leadership.
• A lifestyle aligned with Biblical standards.

Experience & Skills

• Proven experience in venue hire, events or hospitality management.
• Strong commercial awareness with the ability to grow income streams.
• Excellent organisation and time management skills.
• Confidence working independently and managing multiple priorities.
• Clear and professional communication skills.
• Experience negotiating contracts and supplier agreements.
• Understanding of compliance within licensed venues.
• Strong relationship building skills with internal and external stakeholders.
• High attention to detail and accurate documentation.

Why Apply?

If you enjoy building something new, delivering excellent events and growing opportunities for the future, we would love to hear from you.

Apply today and help us develop The River Centre into a thriving venue that serves the community and supports the mission of the church.