Head of Events (12-month Fixed Term Contract)

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About Bonhams

Bonhams is a global auction house with an 18th century heritage poised for transformative change. Our global operations are based in London, Paris, New York, Los Angeles and Hong Kong where we sell in over 60 categories, including motor cars, paintings, jewellery, and entertainment memorabilia.

About You

The ideal candidate will be a proactive and results-driven Events professional with a strong background in luxury event management and a proven ability to deliver memorable experiences that align with Bonhams’ brand values and objectives.

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Head of Events to join our team on a fixed-term basis as Maternity Cover. This role will lead the strategic planning and execution of a diverse portfolio of events, including client engagement events, private auction previews and brand partnerships in the UK, as well as overseeing activity in Europe.

In your role as a Head of Events, you will:

1. Strategic Event Planning: Lead a comprehensive Event strategy that aligns with Bonhams’ business goals, brand image, and client engagement objectives.
2. Project Management: End-to-end project management of UK events, including VIP client dinners, private previews and partnership events. Manage timelines, budgets and resource allocation.
3. Team Leadership: Manage two Events Coordinators based in both London and Paris.
4. Stakeholder Engagement: Act as a key liaison between senior Management, Bonhams Specialists and external partners. Ensure clear communication and deliver a seamless experience for all stakeholders.
5. Supplier Relations: Manage relationships with UK suppliers, expanding the portfolio when necessary to enhance the event offerings and deliver bespoke experiences.
6. Budget Management: Optimise Event budgets, ensuring financial targets are met while maintaining the highest standards of quality.
7. Process Design: Ensure Event processes are consistent, continuously aligning efforts across regions to enhance the client experience.
8. Audience Development: Collaborate with the Client Development team to strategically identify target client lists and tailor event experiences to enhance engagement.
9. Partnership & Sponsorship Strategy: Lead the strategy for partnerships and sponsorships, actively initiating and nurturing UK sponsor and partner relationships to amplify Events offering.
10. Reporting & Analysis: Provide detailed reports on event performance, budget adherence, and conversion metrics to measure the success of the events program.
11. Brand Representation: Maintain Bonhams’ reputation as a leader in luxury events by consistently delivering high-quality, brand-aligned experiences that enhance client relationships and business outcomes.

Key Skills and Attributes

1. Proven Experience: 5+ years in Event Management, preferably in the luxury, arts, or cultural sectors.
2. Leadership Skills: Experience in managing direct reports. Proven ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams.
3. Adaptability: Ability to operate in a fast-paced environment, handling multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining attention to detail.
4. Financial Acumen: Strong budget management skills, with the ability to optimize resources and ensure cost-effective delivery of high-quality events.
5. Communication Skills: Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, capable of engaging effectively with senior stakeholders and external partners.

If you wish to apply, please send your CV and cover letter by the 2nd January 2025 at midnight.

We thank you for your interest in this position but please note that we will only contact candidates chosen for further consideration.

Bonhams is an Equal Opportunity Employer. As part of our commitment to fight for equality, we work to ensure a fair and consistent interview process. We celebrate diversity and we are committed to an inclusive work environment.

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