Job Summary

KOKO is looking for an experienced, dynamic and capable Venue Manager to play a central role in the day-to-day operation of its live music and club venue. This is a hands-on operational leadership role at the heart of KOKO’s live programme: from major live shows and artist performances to high-energy, late-night club events, the Venue Manager ensures every event is prepared, delivered and closed down to the highest possible standard.

Reporting to the AGM and working closely with a close management team, you are responsible for the planning and delivery of KOKO's live music and late-night programme. You are a visible and confident presence on the ground, leading Front of House and security teams and coordinating with production, technical, bar and events teams.

Operational Leadership

Manage the operational preparation and delivery of a diverse programme of live shows, club events and late-night experiences.
Ensure every event is thoroughly planned and operationally ready, with clear event plans that reflect the requirements and vision of promoters, artists and organisers.
Act as a key operational point of contact for promoters and event partners, building strong, trusted and productive relationships.
Lead and coordinate Front of House and security teams to deliver a safe, welcoming, efficient and high-energy guest experience.
Work closely with internal teams across production, technical, bars and events so all areas of the venue operate seamlessly.
Oversee event logistics, venue set-up and operational requirements.
Anticipate operational challenges before they arise and respond to live issues with confident, effective decisions.
Ensure the smooth delivery of events from doors through to close, even during the busiest periods.
Create clear communication channels between internal teams and external partners.
Support the Senior Venue Manager, AGM and GM in delivering operational priorities and improving how events and venue operations are delivered.
Identify opportunities to improve systems, procedures and efficiency, and give regular feedback on operational performance.
Support the monitoring and control of event and operational costs, and monitor sales and operational metrics to improve performance and profitability.

Event Delivery & Guest Experience

Champion an exceptional guest experience that reflects KOKO’s reputation as one of London’s leading live music and late-night destinations.
Ensure the venue is consistently presented, prepared and staffed to the highest standards.
Balance the operational demands of a large-capacity venue with an exciting, welcoming and memorable atmosphere.
Work closely with promoters and organisers to understand and deliver their event requirements.
Maintain a highly visible presence during events, providing leadership and support to teams throughout the night.
Resolve issues quickly and professionally, with minimal disruption to guests, artists, promoters and the wider operation.

Team Leadership & Performance

Lead, motivate and support Front of House and operational teams, creating a positive, accountable and high-performing culture.
Provide clear direction during both event preparation and live operations.
Ensure appropriate training and development is in place to continuously improve service standards and operational performance.
Recognise and celebrate great performance.

Health, Safety & Compliance

Maintain a safe and compliant environment for guests, artists, promoters and staff.
Monitor and enforce KOKO’s health and safety procedures and operational standards.
Maintain a strong working knowledge of relevant licensing, health and safety and venue regulations.
Ensure teams understand and follow appropriate procedures throughout event operations.
Respond confidently and promptly to incidents, and bring lessons into future operations.
Work closely with security and senior management to maintain a safe, professional and well-controlled environment during busy live and late-night events.

About You

Experience managing operations within a busy live music, nightlife or licensed venue
Highly organised, detail-focused and able to manage multiple priorities
Calm, confident and decisive under pressure
A natural problem-solver with a positive, solutions-focused approach
Strong understanding of hospitality and guest experience, with good communication and relationship-building skills
Confident working alongside production and technical teams
Knowledge of London’s live music and cultural landscape
Personal Licence or BIIAB Level 2 Award for Personal Licence Holders, IOSH or SIA training is desirable

Important Notice

Only candidates with the right to work in the UK can be considered.