About Company
The Craiglands Hotel, nestled in the picturesque spa town of Ilkley, is a historic and highly regarded venue renowned for its elegant accommodation, exquisite dining, and exceptional event facilities. With a rich heritage dating back to 1859, we blend classic charm with modern amenities, offering a unique experience for our guests. Our dedicated team is committed to delivering unparalleled service, making every stay, wedding, conference, or special occasion truly memorable. We pride ourselves on creating a warm, welcoming, and professional environment, fostering a culture of excellence and teamwork. Join a team where your passion for hospitality and events will flourish.
Job Description
Are you a highly organised, proactive, and detail-oriented individual with a passion for bringing events to life? The Craiglands Hotel is seeking a dynamic Event Coordinator with a specific focus on Conference Setup to join our thriving team in Ilkley, Leeds. This is an incredible opportunity to play a pivotal role in the success of our diverse range of corporate and private events, contributing directly to our reputation for excellence.
As an Event Coordinator specialising in Conference Setup, you will be instrumental in the meticulous planning, preparation, and execution of conferences, meetings, and banqueting events. Your primary responsibility will be to ensure that all conference spaces are set up precisely according to client specifications and hotel standards, creating a seamless and professional environment for our guests. From intricate room layouts and AV equipment coordination to signage placement and material distribution, you will oversee every detail to guarantee operational excellence. You will be the point person for setup logistics, ensuring that every element from table settings to technical requirements is perfectly aligned with the event brief and executed flawlessly.
This role requires a keen eye for detail, a hands-on approach, and the ability to work collaboratively with various departments, including Food & Beverage, maintenance, and reception. You’ll be the go-to person for event logistics on the day, addressing any unforeseen challenges with composure and efficiency, always striving to exceed client expectations. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment, possess excellent communication skills, and are dedicated to delivering outstanding client experiences, we encourage you to apply. Join us at The Craiglands Hotel and contribute to our legacy of exceptional hospitality and memorable events, becoming a vital part of our success story.
Key Responsibilities
- Coordinate and oversee the comprehensive setup of all conference and event spaces, adhering strictly to booking requirements and layout plans.
- Manage the allocation and readiness of audiovisual equipment, staging, lighting, and other technical requirements for events.
- Liaise effectively with clients to confirm setup details, resolve queries, and ensure all specifications are met prior to and during the event.
- Work closely with the Banqueting and Food & Beverage teams to synchronize food and beverage service with event timelines and setups.
- Conduct pre-event checks to ensure all rooms are immaculately presented, fully functional, and meet health and safety standards.
- Assist in the breakdown and clear-up of event spaces post-event, ensuring efficient turnaround times for subsequent bookings.
- Maintain accurate records of event setups, equipment usage, and client feedback for continuous improvement.
- Proactively identify and address potential operational issues, demonstrating problem-solving skills and a calm demeanour under pressure.
- Train and supervise junior staff or temporary event support in setup procedures and best practices when required.
- Contribute to a positive team environment, supporting colleagues across departments to achieve overall hotel objectives.
Required Skills
- Proven experience in event coordination or conference setup within a hospitality or corporate environment (minimum 2 years).
- Exceptional organizational skills and a meticulous attention to detail.
- Strong communication and interpersonal abilities, capable of engaging with clients and internal teams.
- Proficiency in managing audiovisual equipment and basic technical troubleshooting.
- Ability to read and interpret event floor plans and setup diagrams.
- Demonstrated ability to work effectively under pressure and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
- A proactive and flexible approach to work, including willingness to work evenings and weekends as required by event schedules.
- Excellent problem-solving skills and a calm, professional demeanor.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook).
Preferred Qualifications
- A degree or diploma in Hospitality Management, Event Management, or a related field.
- Knowledge of event management software (e.g., Opera, Delphi).
- First Aid certification.
- Experience with health and safety regulations pertinent to event spaces.
- A strong network of local suppliers and contacts within the events industry.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary and benefits package.
- Opportunities for professional development and career progression within a historic and respected hotel.
- Generous employee discounts on hotel stays, dining, and spa services.
- Comprehensive training programs and mentorship.
- A vibrant and supportive team environment.
- Free on-site parking.
- Complimentary meals on duty.
- Pension scheme.
How to Apply
If you are excited by the prospect of bringing exceptional events to life and thrive in a dynamic hotel environment, we invite you to apply. Please click on the application link below to submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your experience and why you are the ideal candidate for this role. We look forward to reviewing your application!