This is a unique role which will oversee the delivery of Brand experiences in Fortnum’s Food and Drink Studio. Opened in March 2023, this is a highly innovative and live space, home to extraordinary food and drink experiences – from panel talks to supper clubs, masterclasses to product showcases – that showcase the best of Fortnum’s, tap into trends and allow us to collaborate with unique voices, creatives and communities from around the world.

Customer experience is key to the Studio’s success, so the Brand Events Manager will need to own all aspects of that experience, working creatively with the Food & Drink Studio Producer to decide on bespoke formats for Brand events, then liaising with all the relevant stakeholders to ensure that the vision is carried out in the best possible way.

In order for the customer proposition and experience to represent a coherent and highly engaging dimension of Piccadilly, and of Fortnum’s as a whole, the Brand Events Manager will need to have close working relationships with not only the Food & Drink Studio Producer and guest talent, but also other key parts of the business such as Retail, Hospitality, Buying, Merchandising, HR, Marketing, PR, Employee Communications & Engagement and the Fortnum & Mason leadership team. 

This is a multi-faceted role that will demand a high degree of dexterity, imagination, passion and flair, affinity to our brand and values, and an ability to engage with our teams on a cross functional basis to create outstanding experiences and moments that bring our purpose, “We Make Joy”, to life every day.

Although Brand experiences are a priority in this role, the Brand Events Manager will also be called on to deputise for the Food & Drink Studio Private Events Manager on occasion, working closely with the General Manager of Private Dining & Events on everything from bespoke breakfasts to business lunches, tea parties, weddings and private suppers tailored to the client.

The Food & Drink Studio is a 7-Day Week operation and will require a level of flexibility to the working week, including some cover of early mornings, evenings & weekends. Time will be managed by a rota. 

Key Accountabilities

*       Work closely with the Food & Drink Studio Producer to design Brand events that will deliver the intended core messaging and promise an  outstanding customer experience.

*       Bring the unique qualities of the Food and Drink Studio to life by overseeing the delivery of Brand events that establish the space as one of the most exciting, innovative and ground-breaking initiatives in the world of retail.

*       Work collaboratively with the Food & Drink Studio Private Events Manager to ensure that the look and feel of the space evolves with the seasons and shows the Studio off in its best light 

*       Review stock requirements with the Food & Drink Studio Coordinators and ensure we are equipped with everything we require to deliver events seamlessly

*       Delegate as needed to ensure that both event planning and delivery are smooth from beginning to end, and that internal and external stakeholders are kept informed and handled with care.

*       Support VIP and private events where required, deputising for the Food & Drink Studio Private Events Manager on occasion

*       Ensure adherence to company policies, controls, and standards (e.g., due diligence, cleanliness, cash handling, H&S, dress code standards etc.)

*       Lead by example, demonstrating high levels of planning, organising, and time management to drive the operational execution of Brand events in the Food & Drink Studio.

We expect the successful candidate to have the following skills and experience:

*       Excellent Microsoft office skills

*       Excellent communication skills impeccable attention to detail

*       Excellent interpersonal skills for diplomatically handling staff and customers

*       Digitally savvy

*       Tripleseat & Seven Rooms experience beneficial  

*       Ability to engage a wide range of audiences and work with integrity/confidentiality 

*       The ability to lead and motivate a team of staff

*       The ability to cope under pressure in a fast-paced environment

*       Strong planning and organisational skills to run a streamlined operation 

*       A flexible hands-on, can-do attitude 

*       The ability to work independently, make decisions and problem solve confidently 

*       A friendly but professional work ethic

*       Enthusiasm and willingness to learn

We are committed to developing your career and nurturing your talent, regardless of age; disability; gender reassignment; marriage and civil partnership; pregnancy and maternity; race; religion or belief; sex; sexual orientation. We respect and embrace each other’s differences, to create a truly inclusive environment.

In the last year alone, our people have been recognised and celebrated, winning awards for their outstanding contributions to Retail, Technology, Global Hospitality & Tourism, Visual Merchandising & Display, Customer Service and Local Community Awards