At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and manage exciting events for top brands globally, from planning to execution.
- Company: Join FIRST, a leading global brand experience agency with a vibrant culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy private medical insurance, generous leave, wellness perks, and global opportunities.
- Why this job: Make an impact in the event industry while working with Fortune 500 clients.
- Qualifications: 8-10 years of event management experience, preferably in corporate settings.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
FIRST is a leading global brand experience agency providing Content, Creative, Digital Technology, Management & Delivery, and Data & Insights services. For 30 years, we have utilized three flexible delivery models: Embedded teams, Corporate Campus operations, and a Full-Service Agency. Managing over 37,000 events & projects annually across 110 countries, FIRST serves 130+ brands, specialising in Fortune 500 companies within the Financial Services, Technology, Healthcare, Media, and Professional Services sectors. Consistently recognised for excellence, recent honours include 2026 Chief Marketer Agency of the Year, the Ad Net Zero Award for sustainability, and more.
The Senior Project Manager is responsible for supporting the client with their internal and/or client-facing events and conferences while consistently delivering exceptional service through excellent project management and creative solutions. This includes the management of all aspects of the event operation, from initial briefing to reconciliation, including but not limited to:
- Project plans
- Collateral
- Registration
- Transportation
- Hotel accommodations
- Entertainment
- Food and beverage
- Gift selection
- Audio/visual needs
- Webcasts
- Staging
- Speaker selection
- Execution
- Reconciliation
There is a requirement for onsite events to travel domestically or abroad as required.
Your Contributions
- Full life-cycle planning and execution of multiple key events in a virtual, in-person and hybrid capacity
- Financial management, including budget development and management, expense management and invoice processing, timely post-meeting reconciliation and final financial reporting
- Sourcing, negotiating and managing site selections, contract management for venues and suppliers
- Coordinate registration, food and beverage, transportation, hotel accommodations, entertainment, gift selection, audio/visual needs, webcasts, staging and speaker selection for all programs; strong focus on vendor management
- Work seamlessly with key internal partners on event deliverables (i.e. Marketing for print and digital design and collateral elements, Production on Audio Visual, Event Technology team on web builds, data team on attendee management, Legal and Compliance as required, etc.)
- Virtual event planning and project management including confirming appropriate virtual platform, creation of timelines, invitation process, thorough and regular communications to attendees, suppliers and stakeholders
- Assist with the training of new joiners
- Manage and mentor a team, which may include up to 5 direct reports
- Management responsibilities, if applicable, include managing vacation schedules for direct reports ensuring coverage for the client at all times including providing coverage when team members are out of the office on vacation or for an event
- Oversee workload of the team ensuring day to day understanding of capacity/pressure points
- Management of staffing assignments considering individual team members capacities and capabilities
- Management of personal development reviews for direct reports
- Lead and motivate direct reports, encouraging a productive and positive atmosphere
- Work with the team to ensure adherence to the client’s standards of operation and policies; ensure compliance and risk guidelines are followed
- Create and closely monitor value adds at every opportunity and demonstrate commercial awareness
- Share knowledge of best practices, new suppliers, services and venues
- Deepen relations with existing clients and maximise on all opportunities to generate new business
What We Are Looking For
- 8-10+ years’ Event Management experience, preferably in the financial services industry or a corporate environment
- Advanced experience of events, conferences, meeting and production management, including but not limited to C-level executive dinners, cocktail receptions, meetings, recognition events, and sponsorships
- Extensive experience with managing senior clients in planning and execution of events
- Experience managing a team of employees is a plus, but not required as not all Senior Project Manager roles have management responsibilities
- Strong proficiency working in Cvent
- Strong proficiency with Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office
- Advanced project management skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
- Excellent written and oral communication skills
- Extensive industry knowledge of new suppliers, venues, services, and best practices with active participation in the industry
- Strong client management skills with the ability to influence and lead by example, fostering a positive environment
- Strong team player, able to co-plan with colleagues and the client on large scale programs
- Strong ability to create best practice and take on new initiatives independently
- Client centric, approachable, ability to adjust to client needs and style and deepen relationships in support of their business and programs; adapt to ever changing demands and different client work styles
- Motivated, self-starter, ability to take direction and work independently; ability to think innovatively
At FIRST, we believe that the passion, creativity, and commitment of our teams drive our success. That’s why we offer a range of benefits and perks to support your personal and professional growth:
- Private Medical Insurance with BUPA from day one
- 28 Days Annual Leave PLUS Bank Holidays
- 20 Days of Sick Pay each Year
- Enhanced Parental Leave (Maternity & Paternity)
- Wellness Stipend
- Complimentary access to Headspace, Rocket Lawyer & Maven
- Life Insurance
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Season Ticket Loan
- Pension Scheme Enhancements
- Discretionary Bonus Structure
- Global Opportunities: With a presence in 7 countries worldwide, including headquarters in London, New York, and Singapore, you may have the opportunity to work on exciting projects across different locations.
FIRST is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind. FIRST is committed to the principle of equal employment opportunity for all employees and to providing employees with a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. All employment decisions are based on business needs, job requirements and individual qualifications without regard to race, colour, religion or belief, national, social or ethnic origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, past or present military service, family medical history or genetic information, family or parental status, or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where we operate. We stand firm: FIRST will not tolerate discrimination or harassment based on any of these characteristics. If any candidate feels that they are unable to meet the requirements of the role, please get in touch to discuss adjustments or other suitable roles.
Senior Project Manager in London employer: Firstagency
Contact Detail:
Firstagency Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Project Manager in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry folks on LinkedIn or at events. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, highlight your project management experience and how you've tackled challenges in past roles. Be ready with examples that showcase your expertise.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply anywhere—apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at FIRST.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for interviews by researching FIRST and its projects. Understand our values and what we stand for. This will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate that you’re a perfect fit for our culture.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Project Manager in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Senior Project Manager role. Highlight your event management experience, especially in financial services, and showcase how your skills align with our needs at FIRST.
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; share specific examples of successful events you've managed. Use metrics where possible to demonstrate your impact, like budget management or client satisfaction rates.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use bullet points for easy reading and ensure your writing is free from jargon unless it’s relevant to the role. We appreciate straightforward communication!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Firstagency
✨Know Your Events Inside Out
Make sure you’re familiar with the types of events FIRST manages. Brush up on your knowledge of C-level executive dinners, hybrid conferences, and sponsorships. Being able to discuss specific examples from your past experience will show that you understand the nuances of event management.
✨Showcase Your Financial Savvy
Since financial management is key for this role, be prepared to discuss your experience with budget development and expense management. Bring examples of how you've successfully managed budgets in previous projects, and be ready to explain your approach to post-event reconciliation.
✨Demonstrate Team Leadership Skills
Even if you haven’t directly managed a team before, think about times when you’ve led projects or mentored colleagues. Highlight your ability to motivate others and create a positive atmosphere, as well as your experience in managing workloads and ensuring compliance with standards.
✨Be Client-Centric
FIRST values strong client relationships, so come prepared with examples of how you’ve adapted to client needs in the past. Discuss how you’ve influenced clients positively and deepened relationships, showcasing your ability to adjust to different work styles and demands.