Event Manager

• Job Title: Event Manager
• Location: Edinburgh Zoo, 134 Corstorphine Road, Edinburgh, EH12 6TS
• £30,000 per annum
• 40hrs/ Working 5 days out of 7, some weekends or evenings may be required
• Permanent

Job Introduction

Be part of something brand new at one of Scotland’s most iconic venues.

We’re creating a new Event Manager role at Edinburgh Zoo a chance to build the rhythm, standards and style of our events operation from the ground up. If you love the buzz of live events and the satisfaction of making every detail land perfectly, this is your opportunity to shape how we plan, deliver and elevate unforgettable experiences in a truly unique setting.

You’ll lead end-to-end event delivery, often managing multiple events in the same week, partnering closely with clients and internal teams to bring each brief to life. From staffing and service flow to equipment, linen, food offers and on-the-day execution, you’ll be the person who makes it feel seamless while keeping financial targets, project milestones, food safety and H&S firmly on track. Just as importantly, you’ll help develop our casual team, creating a clear pathway into our rotational placement programme and setting the tone for a high-performing, positive events culture.

What You'll Do:

• Ensure all planning, operational and kitchen service delivery functions for the venue are in place and to the right standard
• Manage all quality control measures, Health & Safety and Hygiene systems to the desired standard of Heritage Portfolio in line with the tasking allocated by operations manager
• To understand and articulate service offers to venue clients, customers and the Heritage Portfolio team
• To lead innovation and service styles that drives positive PR, positive client feedback
• To play an active part within the wider events team – contribute to team activities, discussions and decisions to grow and improve the Heritage Portfolio business
• To work closely with the clients on the planning of their event, ensuring all linen and equipment is in place in line with client expectations
• To ensure the correct staffing levels in line with event requirements and budget

For a list of responsibilities please view the attached job description

What You Bring:

Essential:

• A passionate interest in the catering industry – knowledge of current trend and interest in the hospitality world
• 1 years experience in a high-volume catering environment
• Ability to craft communication plan to key stakeholders
• Evidence of ability to create and adhere to project delivery plan
• Ability to competently use Microsoft Word, Excel, Power point and Email
• Ability to motivate a team of mixed abilities and personalities
• Proven record of managing a front of house team of managers and floor staff

Desirable:

• Experience and understanding of events costing and design of events
• Ability to produce accurate work to tight deadlines under pressure
• Experience in assisting to create a project plan
• Capability to identify and highlight revenue maximising opportunities
• Ability to produce accurate work to tight deadlines under pressure
• First aid and personal alcohol licence qualifications
• Experience in assisting to create a marketing plan
• Capability to identify and highlight revenue maximising opportunities

What we offer:

Working with Sodexo is more than a job; it’s a chance to be part of something greater. You’ll belong in a company and team that values you for you; you’ll act with purpose and have an impact through your everyday actions; and you’ll be able to thrive in your own way. In addition, we also offer a range of resources, rewards and benefits for our colleagues and their families:

• Unlimited access to an online platform offering mental health and wellbeing support.
• Employee Assistance Programme to help with everyday issues or larger problems where you may need additional support, including legal and financial advice, support with work related issues or personal issues such as bereavement.
• Access to a free health and wellbeing app that provides rewards for maintaining a healthy lifestyle and includes access to a 24hr virtual GP and various other services.
• The Sodexo Discounts Scheme, offering great deals 24/7 (also open to friends and family) and/or the prepayment cashback card.
• Money Insights and financial benefits via the Salary Finance Platform.
• Save for your future by becoming a member of the Sodexo Retirement Plan
• A Death-in-Service benefit for colleagues who pass away whilst employed by Sodexo
• Opportunities to enable colleagues to grow and succeed throughout their career at Sodexo, including a variety of learning and development tools.
• Cycle to Work Scheme to help colleagues to do their bit for the environment whilst keeping fit.
• Volunteering Opportunities to enable all colleagues to help support worthwhile causes in our communities.
• Flexible and dynamic work environment
• Competitive compensation
• Full training and full protective uniform supplied.

Ready to be part of something greater? Apply today! Career progression for the caring profession.

Sodexo reserves the right to close this advertisement early if we are in receipt of a high volume of applications.

About Sodexo

At Sodexo, our purpose is to create a better every day for everyone to build a better life for all. As the global leader in services that improve the Quality of Life, we operate in 55 countries, serving over 100 million consumers each day through our unique combination of On-Site Food and FM Services, Benefits & Rewards Services and Personal & Home Services.

We are committed to being an inclusive employer. We are a forces friendly employer. We welcome and encourage applications from people with a diverse variety of experiences, backgrounds, and identities. We encourage our employees to get involved with our Employee Networks such as Pride, Sodexo Parents & Carers, Sodexo Disability, Ability network, So Together, Generations and Origins.

Sodexo Disability, Ability network, So Together, Generations and Origins.

We’re a Disability Confident Leader employer. We’re committed to changing attitudes towards disability, and making sure disabled people have the chance to fulfil their aspirations.

Click here to read more about what we do to promote an inclusive culture.

File Downloads

• UK Rewards and Benefits Guide..pdf
• Event Manager Job Description 2026.docx