Operations Assistant in Chelmsford

Defence Leaders is a global platform connecting and empowering the international defence community across land and air domains. Since 2009, we’ve built a market-leading portfolio of events. As an Operations Assistant, you’ll play a vital role in making our events happen. This is a hands-on, varied role where no two days are quite the same. You’ll need to be highly organised, with exceptional attention to detail.

What you will be doing:

• Event logistics: Coordinate accommodation, transport, restaurant bookings and other arrangements for staff.
• Sponsorship & exhibitor support: Manage sponsorship deliverables, exhibitor onboarding and ongoing operational support.
• Event administration: Set up (and manage) registration links, exhibitor portals and event technology, ensuring everything runs smoothly both before and during events.
• Event guides & materials: Coordinate with external designers and internal teams to produce accurate, high-quality event materials.
• Onsite event delivery: Support the Head of Operations with the smooth running of events, ensuring onsite processes and checklists are followed.
• Office operations: Manage office supplies, new starter setups, staff badges, event equipment and inventory.
• Shared inbox management: Monitor and respond to enquiries promptly, ensuring requests reach the right team.
• General operational support: Be ready to roll up your sleeves and help wherever needed to deliver outstanding events.

You will be:

• Highly organised, proactive and reliable.
• An excellent communicator who is comfortable dealing with clients, suppliers, speakers and colleagues.
• Naturally detail-oriented, with a strong eye for accuracy.
• Able to manage multiple deadlines and competing priorities.
• Confident using technology and willing to learn new systems — experience with Cvent would be advantageous.
• Calm and solutions-focused when things don’t go to plan.
• A strong team player who enjoys working collaboratively.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment.
• Willing to travel and attend conferences, social events and meetings.
• Prepared to work hard, take ownership and have fun along the way.

What’s it like to work here?

With a recognised and respected brand and more than 18 years of experience, we’re friendly, hard-working and passionate about what we do. We collaborate across teams, value honest communication and encourage everyone to contribute ideas and feedback.

If you’re looking for a varied role where you can make a real impact, work with interesting people and play a key part in delivering high-profile events to the global defence community, we’d love to hear from you.

What you will get in return:

• Bonus scheme.
• 28 days of annual leave (inclusive of public holidays) + 2 weeks additional discretionary leave in December.
• Professional working environment with full training.
• Regular travel both domestic and international representing the business at events.
• Excellent progression, with a legacy of promoting from within.

We are committed to making our recruitment process accessible to everyone. If you need any reasonable adjustments, please let us know and we will do our best to accommodate your needs.