Job Description

Events & Operations Manager - Purl - Barbican

Job Summary

This is an exceptional opportunity for someone passionate about hospitality and events to join as a founding member of an exciting new venture.

Based in the Barbican, you'll be responsible for building and managing our private hire business from scratch. This role combines event management, bar/F&B operations, and client relationship building. You'll have the autonomy to shape how we operate and the opportunity to grow your career as Purl establishes itself in London's private events scene.

The successful candidate will be proactive, client-focused, and have a natural ability to build rapport with clients while maintaining exceptional operational standards. You'll thrive under pressure, work with meticulous attention to detail, and be energised by the challenge of creating something new.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Events Management (Primary):

Own the end-to-end management of private hire events: from initial enquiry through planning, execution, and post-event follow-up Build and manage a portfolio of regular clients, understanding their needs and exceeding expectations Create compelling event proposals, packages, and pricing (in collaboration with ownership) Act as main point of contact for clients throughout their event journey Coordinate all event logistics: setup, suppliers, staffing, timings, and breakdown Be hands-on during events to ensure flawless delivery
Bar & F&B Operations (Secondary):

Develop and manage bar operations including drinks menus, stock control, and supplier relationships Maintain high service standards and train team on product knowledge and service excellence Monitor costs, GP, and identify opportunities to optimize profitability Ensure compliance with licensing, health & safety, and food hygiene regulations
Team & Business Development:

Recruit, train, and manage a small front-of-house team Create staff rotas and manage labor costs effectively Proactively seek new business opportunities and referrals Build Purl's reputation through exceptional client experiences Support marketing initiatives to drive bookings and awareness
Candidate Profile

Experience Required:

3-5 years in hospitality, with proven experience in events management and/or private hire Bar or F&B operations management experience essential Track record of managing client relationships and delivering events to a high standard Experience building systems and processes (highly desirable)
Skills and Knowledge:

Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills - you're the face of Purl to clients Strong commercial awareness: pricing, cost control, sales Excellent organizational skills with ability to manage multiple events simultaneously Competent with Microsoft Office, social media and booking/event management systems Stakeholder management: confident with clients, suppliers, and team members High attention to detail and commitment to quality
Personal Qualities:

Hands-on approach - you'll be in the details, not just overseeing Genuine entrepreneurial drive and desire to build something Passionate about hospitality, design, and creating memorable experiences Professional, personable, and able to build rapport quickly Thrives under pressure and adapts well to changing circumstances Comfortable with evening and weekend work during events
What We Offer:

Salary: 35,000-40,000 depending on experience
oFounding opportunity with career growth as Purl scales

Work directly with ownership
Please note: This role requires flexibility around hours, particularly during events and our launch phase. If you're looking for strict 9-5 hours, this isn't the right fit.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: 35,000.00-40,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Employee discount Flexitime Work from home
Licence/Certification:

Personal Licence (preferred)
Work Location: In person