The British Embassy in Lisbon is part of a worldwide network representing British political, economic, security and consular interests overseas. The Embassy is looking to recruit an Events and Residence Manager to ensure the smooth running of the British Ambassador’s Residence (the Residence) both as a venue for official events (meals, receptions, meetings, etc) and as a family home, delivering to the highest standards of efficiency, sustainability and value for money, and advancing UK strategic objectives in Portugal.

Are you a master of elegance, logistics, and unforgettable experiences?

Do you dream of orchestrating high-profile events in a beautiful European diplomatic residence?

The British Embassy in Lisbon is looking for a dynamic and highly organised Events and Residence Manager to bring British hospitality and diplomacy to life in Portugal.

As the creative force behind official functions at the British Ambassador’s Residence, you will be at the heart of planning and delivering prestigious events — from intimate diplomatic dinners to grand national celebrations attended by over 600 guests.

What will be expected:

• Design and manage exceptional events that reflect the UK’s values, culture, and global standing.
• Oversee the Residence as both a high-functioning event venue and a private diplomatic home.
• Work closely with UK and Portuguese VIPs, government leaders, business figures, and cultural icons.
• Lead a talented team to deliver flawless service and unmatched presentation.
• Curate décor, themes, and atmosphere — down to the last flower or glassware — ensuring every detail shines.
• Look after the artwork, stock and equipment at the Residence and bring events in on time and budget, ensuring strong value for money.

Why This Role Is Unique:

 Represent the UK on the world stage through the art of hospitality.

• Collaborate with Embassy teams to promote trade, investment, and policy engagement.
• Be the operational heartbeat of events that make headlines and build international relationships.
• Take full creative and operational ownership of a prestigious diplomatic premises.

Your Background:

If you’re experienced in managing luxury banquets, elegant weddings, or five-star events, this role is calling you. Bring your flair for perfection, your eye for detail, and your passion for excellent service and help us create memorable moments that promote British objectives in Portugal.  

Roles and Responsibilities:

Events

• Responsible for oversight, preparation and delivery of official events at the Ambassador’s Residence, in close consultation with the Ambassador, the respective Embassy teams and other relevant colleagues.  This includes but is not limited to: planning table and flower arrangements, room layout, hiring equipment (e.g. marquee, audio visual, lighting, heating), and hiring casual event staff, who work under the Event and Residence Manager’s supervision including set-up and post-event clear up and cleaning.
• Designing and organising the UK national day for over 600 people, including organising bars, stalls, catering, audio-visual requirements; liaising with corporate sponsors; creating the theme, look and feel; managing and monitoring the budget; bringing it on time and within budget during a 5-month organisation process.
• In conjunction with the relevant Embassy colleagues, ensure the Residence and all events comply with all necessary Health and Safety rules and wider Embassy guidance.  Work with outside companies and individuals to ensure they fully understand and comply with such rules and guidance and produce risk assessments for events.
• Co-ordinate arrangements for all official visitors staying at the Residence, ensuring that rooms are prepared for overnight guests, the highest levels of service are provided, and that all visitors receive a warm welcome and are made to feel comfortable and at home.
• Purchase supplies for events according to FCDO procurement guidance.

Residence Management

• Manage relevant accounts and purchasing for the Residence, including supplier liaison, quote management, etc, and monitor Residence expenditure, including accounting for pre-approved credit card expenditure in a timely manner.
• Ensure effective delivery of services and maintenance of all Residence property, including preparation and management of the inventories including of silverware, glassware, crockery, linen, Government Art Collection, furniture, and domestic equipment.
• Ensure the highest standards of cleanliness, hygiene and presentation at all times.
• Ensure the Residence and grounds are kept in optimal repair: identify and report repair/improvement work, oversee repairs and maintenance jobs for the Residence and grounds, and liaise with Corporate Services, and the Ambassador/spouse to ensure contractor access to the Residence at convenient times.
• Purchase and manage stocks for the Residence (e.g. cleaning items, pantry stocks), ensuring value for money in procurement of goods and services. Work with the Residence staff to ensure stocks and supplies are regularly reviewed, and supervise deliveries where needed. Ensure regular market testing in delivery of services.
• Liaise with the security guards and security team to ensure effective security of the Residence and grounds is maintained at all times.

 Resources/Staffing

• Lead and manage a team of three Residence staff, and when required casual event staff, providing support and direction as necessary.  Ensure that the Residence staff receive adequate and regular training to undertake their duties and have opportunities to develop.
• Manage staff performance and complete annual appraisals on time and to prescribed standards.
• Ensure effective deployment of staff resources, clear forward planning, and flexible delivery in line with operational requirements.

The Events and Residence Manager will be expected to undertake other duties that may reasonably be required, and which are in accordance with the grading and core competencies of the job.

 Applications are now open — step into a role that combines event mastery, leadership, and global impact.

Apply today and use your event expertise to influence internationally.