IE

Ian Ernest Clay

Available to hire

I’m Ernie Clay, an experienced hospitality and customer service leader with nearly two decades managing in fast-paced venues and teams.

About

I’m Ernie Clay, an experienced hospitality and customer service leader with nearly two decades managing in fast-paced venues and teams. For the last four years I’ve worked as a Customer Service Operations Manager, where I supported and coached advisors, improved quality through audits and feedback, and helped drive consistent, fair customer outcomes.

As of 2025, I’m also building a successful self-employed events career as a very popular Event Host, Planner and quiz provider. I host 20+ events each week with my team, run themed events and fundraisers, DJ parties, and make regular appearances on NUFC TV—bringing energy, humour, and professionalism to everything I do.

  • 22 years' experience
  • Joined October 2026

Industry experience

  • Travel & Hospitality
  • Media & Entertainment
  • Financial Services
  • Professional Services
  • Retail

Work experience· 10 roles

Self-employed Event Host / Planner (North East’s Leading Quiz Provider)Jan 2025 – Present · 1 yr 11 mos

Host and organise themed events, fundraisers, quiz events and party DJ sets. With a team, host 20+ events per week, including event planning, guest engagement and on-the-day delivery. Maintain a strong online presence with social media reach exceeding 33K views in 2025, and host/organise content for a regular television slot on NUFC TV.

Event Host / Planner; Quiz Provider · Self-employedJan 2025 – Present · 1 yr 11 mos

Self-employed event hosting and planning, including themed events, fundraisers, party DJ work, and regular television appearances on NUFC TV. Along with a team, hosts 20+ events per week and supports event operations, guest experience, and end-to-end event organisation.

Customer Service Operations Manager · VerisureJan 2024 – Jan 2025 · 1 yr 1 mo

Managed and drove performance of customer service advisors to ensure an effective front-line service, meeting departmental goals and adhering to Treating Customers Fairly principles. Conducted regular quality audits, delivered coaching and feedback, identified development needs, supported individuals with performance action plans, and acted as a referral/escalation point. Managed on and offline activity within budget allowance while maintaining exceptional customer service and a leading-by-example approach.

Customer Service Operations Manager · Aioi Nissay Dowa Insurance EuropeJan 2021 – Jan 2024 · 3 yrs 1 mo
General Manager · High Street Hospitality (High Street Group)May 2019 – Sep 2020 · 1 yr 5 mos
General Manager · High Street Hospitality (High Street Group) - Hotel52, Bar52, LocaMay 2019 – Sep 2020 · 1 yr 5 mos
Restaurant Manager · The Salt CoveSep 2017 – May 2019 · 1 yr 9 mos
General Manager · The Magnesia BankMar 2011 – May 2017 · 6 yrs 3 mos

Education

GCSEs (10) · Norham Community Technology College1996 – 2001
GCSEs (10) · Norham Community Technology College1996 – 2001

Certifications and awards· 22

Level 3 Event Planning NVQ2030 – 2026
Level 3 Hospitality and Leisure Modern Apprenticeship (Pub Management)2030 – 2026
Level 3 Food Hygiene Certificate2030 – 2026
Level 3 Health and Safety Certificate2030 – 2026

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