Institution: Institute of Contemporary Arts (ICA)
Salary: £42,849 – £46,575
Salary: £42,849 – £46,575
Contract: Permanent, Full-time
Reporting to: Director of Audiences and Business Growth
Deadline: 20 May 2026 (midday)
Location: London, UK
The Institute of Contemporary Arts (ICA) is a leading multi-arts centre located on The Mall in London. Housed in a Grade I listed building, it operates as both a cultural institution and a commercial venue with cinemas, gallery spaces, a theatre, bar, and event hire facilities.
The ICA has a strong legacy of contemporary art and culture, hosting artists such as Stormzy, Amy Winehouse, Basquiat, and Lubaina Himid. The Events team plays a key role in developing the venue hire business as a major income stream, supporting the institution’s financial sustainability.
The Senior Events Manager will lead the ICA’s Events & Hires business, driving commercial growth, managing a small team, and delivering high-quality client experiences. The role combines sales leadership, event delivery, and business development within a cultural venue context.
Responsibilities
- Lead the development and delivery of the ICA’s event hire strategy
- Grow the events pipeline to meet ambitious revenue targets
- Manage and support the Events Officer
- Respond to enquiries and ensure high-quality client service delivery
- Proactively generate and convert new business opportunities
- Develop and manage a strong pipeline of leads, proposals, and contracts
- Build and maintain relationships with clients, agencies, and suppliers
- Lead negotiations for large-scale and complex events
- Attend and oversee key client events when required
- Manage partner events aligned with ICA programming
- Oversee approved supplier list and procurement processes
- Monitor KPIs, market trends, and competitor activity
- Develop event packages and commercial initiatives
- Collaborate with Development team on corporate opportunities
- Contribute to corporate membership development
- Work with Marketing on promotional and sales materials
- Ensure alignment between commercial hires and public programme
- Ensure compliance with health & safety, GDPR, and legal requirements
About You
- FEI/HEI qualification or equivalent experience
- 2+ years’ experience in venue hire or event management in a cultural setting
- Experience managing end-to-end complex events
- Proven track record in sales, targets, and business development
- Experience managing suppliers and event delivery teams
- Strong organisational skills and attention to detail
- Excellent interpersonal and client management skills
- Experience working with CRM or event systems (e.g. Artifax)
- Understanding of health & safety and compliance in events
- Budget management experience
Desirable
- Experience in Grade I listed buildings
- Experience with diverse audiences
- Marketing or communications experience
- IOSH or First Aid qualification
- Interest in contemporary arts and creative industries
