The Columbo Group (Jazz Cafe, The Blues Kitchen, Phonox, Columbo Music and festivals such as Eastern Electrics) is looking for a Head of Live Programming to own the ticketed events diary of The Rex, its new 2,000-capacity music and events venue in East London, opening next year. Salary £50,000 - £60,000 depending on experience.

The role

The venue will be built through proactive outreach: you go after the bookings, win the trust of agencies and promoters and get people excited about the venue, from first enquiry through to show day.

What you'll do

Own every ticketed event at The Rex across music, comedy and other live formats, and manage the diary from first enquiry to show day
Manage holds, confirmations, cancellations and changes with agents and promoters
Work with the General Manager so every confirmed show is deliverable, from technical spec to staffing
Brief Marketing early on confirmed shows so they can be promoted with maximum lead time
Gather feedback after each show and act on it
Be the venue's point of contact for promoters and agents and set up a clear process for enquiries, holds and show-week information
Support the CEO with delivery on ticketed event deal terms
Proactively approach agencies, promoters, managers and tour bookers and build a pipeline from first contact to confirmed date
Arrange site visits and pitch meetings
Balance formats and dates so the calendar reflects the venue's ambition and revenue targets
Work with the CEO, Head of Electronic Music and Head of Programming at Columbo Music on live bookings and programme direction
Collaborate with the corporate sales team on private hires

What we're looking for

Industry experience in live events, ideally bookings, programming or agency relationships across music and other live entertainment
A good understanding of, or current network of, agents, promoters and managers and the confidence to build new relationships from scratch
A proactive approach: you start conversations, follow up and turn interest into booked dates
Excellent organisation, with strong diary and pipeline management skills (in-venue experience)
Commercial awareness, with an understanding of deal terms and what makes a show work financially
Enthusiasm for building a new venue's reputation from the ground up

What to expect

A senior role with real ownership over a new venue's diary and programme from day one
Unlimited guest list and tickets across Columbo Group events, 50% discount on food and drink, work from home Wednesdays, regular team socials and a pension plan