Venue Manager – Palais Theatre

About Us:

Live Nation is the world’s leading provider of live entertainment, promoting more than 40,000 shows annually for over 5,000 artists across 46 countries. In Australia and New Zealand, we deliver top-tier entertainment through international headline concerts, intimate boutique music events, family entertainment, comedy, festivals, and more. The Palais Theatre is one of nine venues within our ANZ Venue division.

The Role:

The Venue Manager of the Palais Theatre is responsible for effectively implementing the business strategy, financial performance, and the general day-to-day operation and management of the Venue. 

The Venue Manager is also tasked with maintaining and establishing mutually beneficial and sustainable contractual relationships with key hirers & promoters, suppliers, stakeholders and contractors, the patron experience and is responsible for managing and mentoring members of the Palais Theatre team.

Key Responsibilities:

Venue Management and Operations:

• Efficiently and effectively manage the venue, ensuring maximum commercial potential and compliance with statutory duties.
• Oversee lease asset management, financial obligations, and community partnerships.
• Accountable for both operational and strategic aspects of the Palais Theatre.
• Manage venue teams and contractors, including full-time staff, casual event staff, and other contractors.
• Maximize revenue opportunities and contribution margins.
• Engage with stakeholders, including maintaining a positive relationship with the City of Port Phillip (CoPP) and chairing the Palais Theatre Community Fund.
• Oversee venue projects and manage food & beverage operations.
• Maintain relationships with suppliers and sponsors, including F&B and Ticketmaster.

Strategy and Business Direction:

• Develop and implement the venue’s annual business plan.
• Work with the Bookings Team to maximize venue bookings and commercial viability.
• Produce and manage operating and capital works (Capex) budgets.
• Fulfill CoPP reporting obligations.
• Recruit, train, and manage a professional venue team to meet statutory obligations and enhance customer experience.
• Identify and mitigate risks to the business, staff, and patrons, including chairing the Palais Theatre OH&S Committee.

Compliance, Planning, and Control:

• Produce monthly and annual financial reports in conjunction with the Venue Finance Team.
• Ensure full compliance with lease rights, community bookings, and statutory requirements.
• Maintain and monitor all systems and facilities.
• Oversee Capital Works programs and manage the annual operating and Capex budgets.
• Serve as the Liquor Licensee Nominee.
• Review asset management programs for potential upgrades.
• Ensure timely compilation and dissemination of event estimates and settlements.
• Implement and uphold Live Nation governance processes.

Objectives & Key Results:

• Achieve overall business profitability and AFP targets (Ancillary per Fan).
• Meet venue lease obligations.
• Maintain high levels of team performance, motivation, and morale.
• Develop team members and manage statutory matters effectively.

About You/Requirements:

• Extensive venue management experience is required.
• In-depth knowledge of the venue and live entertainment industry.
• Strong skills in managing staff, contractors, and technical requirements of live events.
• Understanding of OH&S risk assessments and licensing issues.
• Experience working with event promoters.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.
• Ability to work to deadlines with tact and diplomacy.
• Enthusiastic about live music and confident in handling complex situations.

What We Offer:

• Ticket perks to our events.
• Flexible working environment.
• Health & wellbeing programs, including free counselling.
• Investment in personal career development and training.
• Be part of an innovative and exciting business!

How to Apply:

Sound like the role for you? To apply, please click on the apply link and submit your resume and a cover letter telling us more about yourself!

Equal Opportunities: We are committed to diversity and inclusion and encourage applications from individuals regardless of gender, race, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability status, or caring responsibilities. At Live Nation, we value talent and strive to create an inclusive environment where you can bring your whole self to work and develop both personally and professionally.