Senior Commercial Manager

Senior Commercial Manager – Exhibitions, Design portfolio

South Essex - onsite/hybrid

c£65k DOE + Uncapped Commission

About the Company

Ark are recruiting for a leading UK events and media organisation that's behind some of the country's most recognised and award-winning exhibitions and live experiences. Known for its creativity, collaboration, and innovation, this company produces iconic consumer and trade events that attract thousands of visitors and industry-leading partners every year.

They're now seeking a Commercial Manager to lead revenue growth across one of their flagship consumer lifestyle events - a high-profile, festive showcase celebrating the very best in home, interiors, food, drink, and entertainment. This is a fantastic opportunity for a commercially minded, strategic sales leader to shape partnerships, drive growth, and deliver an exceptional event experience

The Role

As Senior Commercial Manager, you'll take ownership of revenue for one of the portfolios flagship events, driving both new business and account development. You'll develop creative partnerships, brand activations, and bespoke sponsorship opportunities that elevate the event's value proposition and commercial success.

Working closely with the Event and Portfolio Director and cross-functional teams, you'll lead the commercial strategy from concept to delivery, ensuring every exhibitor, sponsor, and feature partner achieves their objectives while contributing to the show's continued success.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead on stand, sponsorship, and partnership sales across the event, achieving and exceeding revenue targets.
• Build and maintain a strong pipeline of exhibitors, sponsors, and brand partners across lifestyle, home, gifting, food, and drink sectors.
• Develop and present tailored, creative proposals that align with client objectives and event goals.
• Negotiate and close high-value deals with senior-level stakeholders.
• Collaborate with marketing, content, and operations teams to ensure exceptional campaign delivery and client satisfaction.
• Identify new business opportunities and revenue streams through innovation and market analysis.
• Analyse sales performance and commercial metrics to inform strategy and optimise outcomes.
• Represent the brand at key industry events to generate leads and maintain market visibility.
• Mentor and motivate your team to achieve targets and professional growth.
• Contribute to post-event reporting and strategic planning to shape future success.

About You

We're looking for a results-driven, confident, and entrepreneurial commercial professional who thrives in a creative, fast-paced events environment. You'll bring:

• Proven experience in senior exhibition, sponsorship, or event sales roles.
• A track record of achieving or exceeding significant revenue targets.
• Strong skills in business development, relationship management, and negotiation.
• The ability to craft tailored, persuasive proposals for senior-level clients.
• Commercial awareness and creative problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience leading or mentoring a team.
• A collaborative, positive attitude with strong leadership instincts.
• Experience working across lifestyle, interiors, or consumer sectors is a bonus.

What's on Offer

• c£65k base salary DOE + uncapped commission.
• Generous bonus opportunities and performance rewards.
• 25 days annual leave + your birthday off (with a gift and cake).
• Enhanced maternity and paternity leave.
• Workplace pension scheme.
• Private healthcare scheme.
• Two legendary company parties a year (summer and Christmas).
• A supportive, social, and high-performing team culture.
• Real opportunity to shape a flagship event and make your mark in a creative, fast-growing business.

Sound like your next move? Then apply now or get in touch with Robyn or Ellie for more information.