Newham Council is leading a landmark project to transform the historic Canning Town Old Library into Newham Heritage Centre, the borough's newest cultural hub. Upon completion, the building will contain an inspiring new exhibition space, reading room, digital suite, learning space, venue hire space and caf . This ambitious project, funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, aims to establish a new cultural destination within the borough and connect people who are living, working and studying in Newham. The Commercial and Operations Officer is a new post which will oversee the commercial activity and day-to-day operations of Newham Heritage Centre. The role will see the postholder proactively seeking hire opportunities from the corporate sector, as well as community partners leading activities which support Newham Heritage Centre's financial sustainability and enrich the cultural programme. The postholder will work with a broad range of internal and external stakeholders, while monitoring results and delivering high levels of financial accountability and record keeping. Working alongside the team, the postholder will ensure that Newham Heritage Centre's operations are run efficiently and safely, consistently meeting high-quality and professional standards. About You: This is a 12-month fixed term role with possibility of an extension. Knowledge: Experience: Skills and Abilities: Commercial Programme: Operations: Apply via Newham Council website.Job Summary
Job Description
We are seeking someone who is proactive and highly motivated, with brilliant communication skills. The postholder will be organised, process-driven and have a detail-orientated approach to the planning and delivery of their work. Alongside this, the postholder should have a strong track record of relationship-building and management, resilience when working under pressure, and an adaptable and inclusive approach to their work.
If you are passionate about arts and culture and want to play a central role in helping Newham Heritage Centre reach its full potential, we want to hear from you. Job Requirements
- Clear understanding of the cultural and event hire industry
- Thorough knowledge of health and safety legislation and safeguarding
- Minimum of 5 years' experience of venue management (preferably in a cultural venue)
- Generating commercial income through a range of sources including filming, rehearsals, brand activation and corporate events.
- Working with a variety of partners including producers, artists, agents and community groups
- Planning and managing budgets, utilising resources effectively
- Delivering excellent standards of customer service
- Excellent organisational and project management skills
- Excellent time management
- Excellent verbal and written communication and presentation skills
- Ability to confidently negotiate effectively both internally and externally
- Strong interpersonal skills to enable effective communication
- An efficient approach to delivering tasks with a high level of attention to detailJob Responsibilities
- Develop and implement a commercial strategy for NHC, with a wide range of opportunities to maximise income
- Lead venue hire and maximise income from via NHC's hire spaces.
- Build a strong client base via commercial and community partners.
- Lead the practical delivery of events and activities which generate income
- Manage the relationship with the caf operator
- Tracking the success of initiatives, monitor income generated and report against agreed targets
- Working with the NHC's Communications Lead to create marketing content which raise the centre's profile
- Lead and manage the day-to-day operations of NHC which includes working with other internal services, ie facilities management, licensing, cleaning and security to ensure the efficient and safe running of the building
- Ensuring the highest standards of health and safety are met
- Liaising with contractors to ensure building and operations are run effectively and efficientlyUseful Links
How to Apply
Apply before Tuesday 8 September 2026, 23:59pm