About 229

Established in 2007, 229 is one of London’s most unique independent entertainment venues. Hosting an eclectic mix of live music, club nights, comedy, fashion events, gala dinners, festivals and award ceremonies, 229 is renowned for championing both emerging talent and internationally recognised artists.

With three licensed event spaces — Venue 1, Venue 2 and The Thirsty Scholar Bar — 229 delivers a culturally diverse programme that reflects the vibrant communities of London and beyond. From grassroots discovery to intimate arena underplays, we pride ourselves on exceptional production, inclusivity and memorable audience experiences.

229 is part of International Students House (ISH), a charity with over 100 years of history supporting students from around the world through accommodation, wellbeing services and financial assistance. Revenue generated by 229 and ISH Venues directly supports this charitable mission.

The Role

We are seeking an experienced, passionate and highly organised Venue Manager to lead the day-to-day operation and strategic development of 229.

This is an exciting opportunity for someone with a genuine love of live music and events, who thrives in a fast-paced environment and is confident managing venue operations, advancing shows, building industry relationships and delivering exceptional customer experiences.

Reporting to the Operations Manager, the Venue Manager will oversee all aspects of venue activity including event delivery, venue operations, sales, marketing, staffing, compliance and financial reconciliation. The successful candidate will also play a key role in developing 229’s in-house live programme and strengthening relationships with promoters, agents, artists and partners.

Key Responsibilities

Venue & Event Management

• Manage the successful delivery of all events from pre-production through to settlement
• Advance shows with promoters, production teams and touring parties
• Oversee venue operations including front of house, box office, cloakroom, bars and security
• Support and manage venue staff and external contractors
• Ensure excellent customer service standards and resolve guest issues professionally
• Brief and debrief staff teams for events
• Maintain high presentation standards across all venue spaces
• Complete event settlements, financial reconciliation and reporting

Administration & Sales

• Handle venue enquiries, bookings, site visits and diary management
• Work closely with ISH Venues and internal teams to maximise space utilisation and profitability
• Oversee ticketing platforms and customer communications
• Ensure event listings and marketing information are accurate and up to date
• Coordinate staffing rotas for venue, security and technical teams

Business Development & Marketing

• Identify opportunities to grow revenue and audience engagement
• Support marketing campaigns, promotional activity and social media growth
• Manage Mailchimp databases and promotional communications
• Work with the Assistant Venue Manager and Booker to develop and promote 229’s in-house events programme

Finance

• Manage event budgets and mini P&Ls
• Complete settlements, PRS returns and invoicing
• Ensure accurate reconciliation of accounts within deadlines
• Monitor event profitability and operational costs

Health & Safety & Licensing

• Act as a licensee for venue operations
• Ensure compliance with licensing, health & safety and fire safety regulations
• Liaise with Local Authority, Police and Fire Officers when required
• Report and follow up on maintenance issues promptly

About You

Essential Experience & Skills

• Proven experience as an Assistant Venue Manager, Venue Manager or Event Manager within live music, entertainment or hospitality
• Strong understanding of live events and venue operations
• Experience working with promoters, agents, artists and touring parties
• Demonstrable success delivering high-profile and high-value events
• Excellent leadership, communication and organisational skills
• Strong administrative and financial management abilities
• Experience with ticketing systems and venue software
• Excellent customer service and relationship-building skills
• Ability to remain calm and professional under pressure
• Commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends and public holidays

Desirable

• Personal Licence holder
• IOSH or equivalent Health & Safety qualification
• First Aid at Work certification
• Experience in sound, lighting or event production
• Understanding of bar operations and SIA/security procedures

Benefits

• 20 days annual leave plus bank holidays, increasing with service up to 25 days
• Christmas shutdown period
• Pension scheme (currently SAUL)
• Company-sponsored health cash plan after probation
• Interest-free annual travel card loan after probation
• £3 meal allowance per shift
• Time off in lieu for overtime worked

Working Hours

This role averages 40 hours per week across daytime office hours and evening event shifts. As a seven-day operation, flexibility is essential, including regular evening and weekend working.

Apply

If you are passionate about live events, thrive in a dynamic environment and want to be part of an independent venue with a strong cultural and charitable mission, we’d love to hear from you.