Catering Jobs – Event Coordinator Roles in Tonbridge | Premium Setting for Aug 2025

Job Title: Elysian Events at The Ashworth Estate
Location: Tonbridge, Kent, United Kingdom
Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent
Start Date: Anticipated Start August 2025 (to commence with our exclusive autumn/winter season launch)
Reporting to: Head of Events & Hospitality
Salary: Highly Competitive, Reflecting the Calibre of Our Brand and Your Expertise

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An Invitation to Create the Unforgettable

Imagine the gentle, anticipatory hum of a room just before the guests arrive. The soft clinking of crystal glasses being polished to perfection, the subtle aroma of world-class cuisine drifting from the kitchens, and the warm glow of bespoke lighting reflecting off immaculately set tables. This isn't just an event; it's a meticulously crafted experience, a memory in the making. And you are the architect.

At Elysian Events, hosted within the breathtaking grounds of the historic Ashworth Estate near Tonbridge, we don't just host events; we craft legacies. We are the curators of milestone moments, the orchestrators of seamless celebrations, and the purveyors of unparalleled luxury in the heart of Kent, the Garden of England. Our reputation is built not on bricks and mortar, but on the flawless execution of dreams and the quiet confidence that comes from obsessive attention to detail.

We are now embarking on a search for an extraordinary individual to join our elite team. This is not a typical call for an Event Coordinator. This is an invitation to a professional who understands that true luxury is found in the seamless fusion of creativity, precision, and heartfelt hospitality. We are seeking a storyteller, a logistical genius, and a calming presence to take the helm of our clients' most cherished occasions.

This is your opportunity to step away from the mundane and into a world of exceptional standards, working within one of the most prestigious catering and event settings in the South East. If you believe an event should be an art form, and you possess the passion and skill to be its artist, we invite you to read on.

The Elysian Philosophy: Why We Are Different

Before we delve into the specifics of the role, it's essential you understand the ethos that drives us. In a world of fleeting trends, we stand for timeless elegance. Our clients, a discerning mix of private individuals and prestigious corporate brands, choose The Ashworth Estate not just for its beauty, but for the promise of perfection.

Our Three Pillars:

1. Bespoke is Standard: We reject the cookie-cutter approach. Every menu, every floor plan, every timeline is a unique creation, born from a deep understanding of our client's vision. You will not be working from a template; you will be given the creative freedom to design from a blank canvas.
2. Cuisine as the Centrepiece: Our catering is not an afterthought; it is the heart of the Elysian experience. Our Michelin-trained culinary team, led by a celebrated Executive Chef, uses locally sourced, seasonal produce to create edible masterpieces. You will work in lockstep with the kitchen, understanding the narrative of each dish and how it contributes to the overall event story.
3. Service as an Intuition: Our front-of-house team is trained to be discreetly attentive, anticipating needs before they are spoken. As the Event Coordinator, you are the conductor of this orchestra, ensuring every member of the team moves in perfect harmony to deliver a service that feels both personal and effortless.

Joining us means becoming a guardian of this philosophy. It means committing to a standard of excellence that has become our signature.

The Role: Architect of Dreams, Master of Moments

As an Elysian Event Coordinator, your role is multifaceted and dynamic, blending client-facing creativity with behind-the-scenes logistical mastery. You will be the single, consistent point of contact for our clients, guiding them with grace and expertise from the first enquiry to the final thank you note.

Let’s break down the journey you will command:

Phase 1: The Visionary Consultation & Conceptualisation

This is where the magic begins. You are not just a note-taker; you are a vision extractor.

• Deep-Dive Discovery: You will meet with clients—be it a nervous, excited couple planning their wedding, or a CEO’s PA planning a high-stakes product launch—and lead them through a process of discovery to unearth the true essence of their desired event.
• Creative Proposal Crafting: You will translate their dreams, ideas, and objectives into a stunning, comprehensive proposal. This document will be a work of art in itself, detailing bespoke menu concepts, atmospheric lighting schemes, entertainment options, and a narrative that brings the event to life on paper.
• Venue Storytelling: You will guide clients through the magnificent Ashworth Estate, not just showing them rooms, but painting a picture of how their event will unfold within its historic walls and idyllic gardens. You will know every secret corner, every perfect photo opportunity, and the unique character of each space.

Phase 2: The Meticulous Planning & Orchestration

This is where your logistical prowess shines. You are the master puppeteer, pulling all the strings together to create a flawless tapestry.

• Symphony of Suppliers: You will liaise with our curated list of elite suppliers—from florists and photographers to musicians and production companies. You will manage contracts, negotiate terms, and ensure their contribution aligns perfectly with the Elysian standard and the client's vision.
• Financial Stewardship: You will develop and manage detailed event budgets, providing clients with clarity and confidence. You will be responsible for meticulous cost tracking, invoicing, and ensuring profitability without ever compromising on quality.
• The Master Blueprint: You will create the definitive event plan—a highly detailed document covering minute-by-minute timelines, staff briefings, supplier logistics, dietary requirement management, contingency plans, and every other conceivable detail. This is the bible for the event day.
• Culinary Collaboration: You will attend menu tasting sessions with clients, acting as the knowledgeable bridge between their palate and the chef’s artistry. You will advise on wine pairings, canapé selections, and the theatricality of food presentation.

Phase 3: The Flawless Execution & On-the-Day Command

This is your showtime. You are the calm, authoritative presence that ensures absolute perfection.

• Pre-Event Leadership: You will lead the comprehensive pre-event briefing for all internal teams—kitchen, front-of-house, operations—ensuring every member understands their role and the client’s expectations implicitly.
• Calm in the Storm: On the day, you are the ultimate problem-solver. Whether it’s a last-minute change to the seating plan or a supplier delay, you handle it with imperceptible grace and efficiency. You are the reassuring face for the client, allowing them to immerse themselves in their event, completely free of stress.
• The Director's Eye: You will oversee every aspect of the live event, from the timing of the service and the quality of the guest experience to the cues for speeches and entertainment. Your eye for detail will be relentless.

Phase 4: The Lasting Impression & Post-Event Relationship

Our relationship with a client doesn't end when the last guest departs.

• Seamless Wrap-Up: You will manage all post-event logistics, including supplier breakdown, final billing reconciliation, and internal debriefs to identify areas for continuous improvement.
• Building Advocacy: You will follow up personally with the client to gather feedback, share professional photos, and solidify a relationship that turns one-time clients into lifelong advocates for Elysian Events.

The Ideal Candidate: Who Are You?

We are looking for a unique blend of personality, skill, and experience. While qualifications are important, your character and passion for the industry are paramount.

Essential DNA (The Non-Negotiables):

• A Proven Pedigree: A minimum of 3-5 years of demonstrable experience in a high-end event coordination role, specifically within premium catering, a 5-star hotel, or a luxury event venue. You must understand the nuances and expectations of a high-net-worth clientele.
• Obsessive Organisational Skills: Your ability to multitask, prioritise, and manage complex timelines is second to none. You are a natural-born planner who finds joy in a perfectly executed schedule.
• Grace Under Pressure: You are unflappable. The fast-paced, high-stakes environment of live events energises you. You are a beacon of calm for both clients and your team.
• Exceptional Communication: You are an articulate, empathetic, and persuasive communicator, both verbally and in writing. You can build rapport effortlessly and convey complex information with clarity and confidence.
• Commercial Acumen: You have a strong head for numbers, with experience in budgeting, cost control, and maximizing event profitability.
• A Passion for Food & Drink: You don't need to be a chef, but you must have a genuine appreciation for fine food, wine, and the art of gastronomy.

Desirable Attributes (What Sets You Apart):

• Kent/South East Experience: Familiarity with the Tonbridge area and a network of high-quality local suppliers would be a significant advantage.
• Wedding Specialist: Proven, in-depth experience managing high-end weddings from start to finish is highly desirable.
• Tech Savvy: Proficiency in event management software (e.g., Cvent, Caterease) and other relevant business tools.
• Formal Qualifications: A degree in Hospitality Management, Event Management, or a related field is a plus. WSET or other relevant certifications are looked upon favourably.

The X-Factor (The Intangibles We Cherish):

• An innate sense of style and aesthetic.
• A proactive, "no-task-is-too-small" attitude.
• A hunger for learning and continuous improvement.
• The emotional intelligence to read a room and anticipate needs.
• A genuine warmth and a desire to make people happy.

Your Stage: The Ashworth Estate

Your workplace is an inspiration in itself. The Ashworth Estate is a magnificent Grade I listed Jacobean manor, seamlessly blended with state-of-the-art, architect-designed event spaces. Nestled in 150 acres of pristine Kentish parkland, it offers a stunning backdrop for any occasion. You will become intimately familiar with:

• The Grand Ballroom: A breathtaking space with 30-foot ceilings, crystal chandeliers, and capacity for 200 guests, offering a canvas for grand dinners and lavish weddings.
• The Orangery: A light-filled, elegant room with panoramic views of the formal gardens, perfect for intimate ceremonies and drinks receptions.
• The Library & Study: Richly panelled, historic rooms ideal for exclusive corporate meetings and private dining.
• The Walled Gardens & Terraces: Acres of manicured lawns, ancient woodlands, and romantic rose gardens providing endless opportunities for outdoor events, photography, and marquee receptions.

What We Give You in Return: Investing in Our People

We demand the best, and we believe in rewarding it accordingly. Joining the Elysian team is a career-defining move, and our benefits package is designed to support your professional and personal growth.

• A Leading Salary Package: We offer a highly competitive salary that is benchmarked against the top luxury venues in the country, designed to attract and retain the very best talent.
• Performance-Based Bonus Scheme: A generous and achievable bonus structure that directly rewards your contribution to successful events and client satisfaction.
• Unrivalled Career Progression: We are a growing company with a firm belief in promoting from within. We will invest in your development with a personalised growth plan, offering opportunities to move into senior management roles.
• World-Class Training: Access to internal and external training programs, including WSET wine qualifications, advanced negotiation courses, and leadership development.
• A Culture of Wellness: We understand the demands of the industry. We champion a healthy work-life balance with structured time off, team wellness days, and access to mental health support resources.
• Generous Benefits: Including a comprehensive private healthcare plan, a competitive pension scheme, and 33 days of annual leave (including bank holidays).
• Inspirational Perks: Enjoy staff discounts on dining and events, regular team-building experiences at incredible locations, and the immeasurable benefit of working in a truly beautiful and historic setting every single day.

Conclusion: Your Future Starts in August 2025

The start date of August 2025 is strategic. It allows for a comprehensive induction period, the opportunity to shadow our peak summer events, and for you to be fully integrated into the team before you take the lead on our prestigious autumn and winter season. This is a long-term appointment for a long-term visionary.

This is more than a job posting. It is a search for a kindred spirit. It is a quest to find the individual who will help us continue to define the pinnacle of hospitality in Kent. If your heart beats faster when you read about creating flawless, beautiful moments, and if you have the skills and experience to back up your passion, then you may be the person we are looking for.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why is the start date set for August 2025? Is there any flexibility?

The August 2025 start date is intentionally planned to ensure the successful candidate has the best possible onboarding experience. This timeline allows you to join us at the tail-end of our busiest summer season, providing a unique opportunity to observe our operations at their peak before taking the lead. It facilitates a thorough handover and immersion into our culture, systems, and client base ahead of the key autumn/winter selling and planning season. While we have a clear plan, we are open to discussing slight variations for an absolutely exceptional candidate.

2. What is the typical size and nature of the events I would be managing?

You will manage a diverse portfolio, which is one of the most exciting aspects of the role. Our events range from intimate private dinners for 10 guests in The Library, to exclusive corporate retreats for 50, all the way up to magnificent weddings and gala dinners for 200 in our Grand Ballroom. The common thread is the clientele and the standard: every event, regardless of size, is a high-budget, luxury affair demanding meticulous attention to detail.

3. What does the core team I'll be working with look like?

You will be joining a collaborative and highly professional Events department. You will work alongside one or two other Event Coordinators, reporting directly to the Head of Events. Your daily interactions will be incredibly close with our Executive Chef and culinary team, the Head of Operations, and our Front-of-House Manager. We foster a "one team" culture where communication is constant and support is guaranteed. The total on-site team for a large event can exceed 50 people, all of whom you will help to lead and inspire.

4. How does this Event Coordinator role differ from similar positions at other venues?

The key differentiators are autonomy, creativity, and the singular focus on the ultra-premium market. Unlike roles where you might be selling standardised packages, here you are a true designer and consultant. You are given the creative freedom and budget to build truly bespoke experiences from the ground up. Furthermore, your close, collaborative relationship with our Michelin-calibre culinary team is rare; you will be deeply involved in the gastronomic journey of each event, making this a dream role for a foodie. Finally, the sheer beauty and prestige of The Ashworth Estate itself elevates the role beyond the ordinary.

5. What are the expected working hours, especially around event days?

We are committed to fostering a sustainable work-life balance, which we know is a critical conversation in the hospitality industry. Your standard working week will be Monday to Friday during non-event periods, focusing on planning and client meetings. However, the nature of events requires flexibility. You will, of course, be expected to be present to oversee the events you have meticulously planned, which includes evenings and weekends. We operate on a sophisticated scheduling system and a time-off-in-lieu (TOIL) policy to ensure that your dedication is recognised and that you have ample time to rest and recharge. We believe a happy and rested team delivers the best service.