JOB DESCRIPTION
Site / Venue Manager
Reporting to: Head of Events, Senior Events Manager, Head of Logistics
Hours: 40 hours per week with flexible working hours.
Some weekends and late nights may be required for emergency site maintenance and weekend event operational management. Attendance of all Unit X and Unit events may be required.
Location: 3 Hanover Square W1S 1HD, The Stables WC2H 9HW and other off-site locations as required
Salary: £37,000 - £45,000 per annum DOE
Ethos
Unit X is an award winning events company, hosting and producing immersive, cutting edge experiences for the worlds most innovative organisations. Founded on the values of Unit, Unit X utilises an artistic framework to provide unique events experiences across two central London locations.
Since its inception in 2013, Unit gallery has been firmly committed to the identification and championing of unique and distinctive artistic talent from across the globe. The gallerys ambition is to enact change in the industry: increasing accessibility to the art world and engaging new audiences to expand the reach and impact of contemporary art on broader culture.
This role offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of art and events, bringing together the pioneering spirit of Unit X with the cultural impact of Unit. With a shared commitment to creativity, accessibility, and innovation, the Site / Venue Manager will play a vital role in ensuring that both brands spaces operate seamlessly, providing world-class environments for immersive experiences, groundbreaking exhibitions, and forward-thinking events. This is a chance to be part of a team that redefines how audiences engage with art and experiences, shaping spaces that inspire, connect, and leave a lasting impression.
Culture
As an artist-led space, the DNA of the company is fundamentally creative. We have an ideas-driven culture and we pride ourselves on being able to think outside the box and go against the grain of tradition. We know that great ideas often come from unexpected places, so all members of the team are encouraged to think about and contribute to the wider vision, even if its not part of their role. We are a collaborative team and treat each other with humility and respect. Everyone at Unit is ambitious, driven and passionate about our mission: realising a future society that understands contemporary art, and celebrates the talents and contributions of artists from all backgrounds and practices.
The Site / Venue Manager is expected to:
* Be a positive ambassador for Unit X and Unit London, championing the brands and their ethos.
* Maintain a high level of professionalism at all times when in the spaces or offsite.
* Ensure the venues are in immaculate condition at all times, proactively identifying and addressing infrastructure issues before they arise.
* Assist with operational event planning including conducting a state-of-condition check at the start and end of each event where required.
* Ensure reinstatement is carried out before public hours, personally handling minor fixes such as painting walls and general handy-person tasks. For more complex work, book and manage external contractors or technicians as required.
* Take responsibility for maintaining an immaculate and obstruction-free environment across both sites.
ROLE
The Site / Venue Manager is responsible for the smooth and efficient operation of Unit X and Units gallery spaces, ensuring they are always presented to the highest standard. Acting as the key point of contact for all venue-related upkeep, they will take a hands-on approach to maintenance, carrying out minor repairs themselves while coordinating external contractors for more complex works. With a keen eye for detail, they will proactively identify and resolve infrastructure issues before they arise, maintaining the integrity and functionality of the spaces at all times.
In addition to overseeing the day-to-day running of the venues, the Site / Venue Manager will play a vital role in event operations, attending weekly meetings with the Events & Logistics teams to discuss any operational concerns and ensure seamless execution on-site. They may be asked to be present for selected events as required, conducting pre- and post-event checks, managing reinstatement, and ensuring the quick turnaround and timely restoration of the space. This role requires a practical, solutions-focused mindset and the ability to balance ongoing maintenance with the demands of the events and exhibitions schedule. As a key custodian of both brands physical spaces, the Site / Venue Manager will uphold Unit X and Units reputation for excellence, creating an inspiring environment for clients, artists, and audiences alike.
RESPONSIBILITIES
* Oversee the smooth and efficient day-to-day running of Unit X and Units venues, ensuring they are well-maintained and operating at the highest standard.
* Ensure all spaces are in excellent condition at all times, proactively identifying and addressing infrastructure issues before they arise.
* Take a hands-on approach to maintenance, handling minor repairs such as painting walls and general handy-person tasks, while booking and managing external contractors for cleaning and more complex works.
* Identify and proactively instate improvements to both venues to ensure the customer experience is always of the highest standard
* Ensure the highest standard of presentation for the venues, keeping them clean, tidy, and visually impeccable at all times.
* Oversee and manage in-house venue logistics, including in-house event setups, lighting, AV equipment, and overall space functionality.
* Support operational event planning and be on-site for select events where required, conducting pre- and post-event condition checks and ensuring timely reinstatement of the spaces.
* Support the Logistics Manager & Freelance Technicians on gallery exhibition changes, assisting with vinyl installation, and maintaining proper gallery lighting.
* Oversee building management and maintenance at Hanover Square and The Stables, including liaising with suppliers, negotiating costs, and ensuring all necessary repairs and improvements are carried out efficiently.
* Be the primary point of contact for all third-party contractors and suppliers in relation to venue maintenance & security.
* Ensure Fire Safety Regulations are met by maintaining contracts with existing suppliers for bi-annual fire alarm testing, fire equipment maintenance, sprinklers and emergency lighting.
* Maintain appropriate health & safety measures, ensuring annual risk assessments are completed and the correct number of staff are First Aid and Fire Marshal trained.
* Ensure all necessary maintenance supplies are stocked, including general supplies such as bathroom supplies, wall paint, office supplies etc
* Arrange collections with the council & recycling companies to ensure the proper and timely disposal of waste.
REQUIREMENTS
* Proven experience in venue or site management, preferably within events or hospitality sectors.
* Strong problem-solving skills with a proactive approach to identifying and addressing infrastructure issues.
* Practical, hands-on maintenance skills, including painting, basic repairs, and general handy-person tasks.
* Experience managing external contractors and suppliers, including negotiating costs and ensuring high-quality service.
* Strong organisational skills with the ability to balance ongoing maintenance with a dynamic schedule.
* Knowledge of fire safety regulations and health & safety procedures, including risk assessments and compliance.
* Ability to maintain an immaculate and visually impeccable venue environment at all times.
* Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with internal teams, suppliers, and contractors.
* High level of professionalism and ability to act as a positive ambassador for Unit X and Unit.
* Flexible approach to working hours, including availability for weekends and occasional late nights as required.
* Strong attention to detail and a solutions-focused mindset.
* Some experience in art logistics would be a plus but is not essential
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