European Planner

Location: NEC / ExCeL | Department: Central Planning - HYBRID ROLE (roughly 2 days per week in closest office, NEC or Excel)

About the role

As European Planner, you'll play a key role in supporting the planning and delivery of GES events across Europe. Working closely with the Senior Planning Manager, European Operations and wider business, you'll coordinate suppliers, systems, stock, purchasing and operational requirements to ensure every event is delivered smoothly and efficiently.

This is a varied role for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, enjoys solving problems and takes pride in getting the detail right.

What you'll do

• Act as a key point of contact for European planning and our subcontracted partners, including labour, materials and equipment suppliers.
• Take ownership of Show Build Live for European events, ensuring systems are fully prepared for delivery.
• Manage purchase orders through Sage X3 and complete post-event invoice reconciliation.
• Use Clarity to manage event data, stock requirements and quantities, working closely with the Inventory team.
• Work collaboratively with Transport, Commercial, Finance, Service Centre, Features and Show Ready teams.
• Support operational queries, provide guidance on systems and assist with training new colleagues.
• Coordinate supplier requirements, including IR35 certification where required.
• Create transport quotes for events, balancing efficiency, cost and sustainability.
• Ensure revenue data is accurate and aligned across relevant systems.
• Contribute to process improvements and the continued evolution of the Planning team.
• Support GES's sustainability commitments through responsible reuse, recycling and replenishment.
• Ensure all activity meets relevant health & safety, client, corporate and legislative standards.

What we're looking for

• Experience working in a similar planning, coordination or operational role.
• Experience within the exhibition and events industry is desirable.
• French and Spanish Language is highly desirable
• Strong planning, organisational and time-management skills, with the ability to prioritise in a busy environment.
• Confident working independently and taking ownership, while being a strong team player.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with strong attention to detail.
• A confident, proactive and solutions-focused approach to problem solving.
• Comfortable working with technology and multiple systems, with strong Microsoft Office skills.
• Experience with Clarity, Sage or similar systems would be advantageous.
• A genuine passion for events and pride in delivering high-quality work.
• A flexible mindset and enthusiasm for continuous improvement.

SOFT SKILLS which are important

• Team Player focused on collaboration
• Patient disposition and even temperament
• Strong Attention to Detail

Why join GES?

At GES, we're on a mission to grow with our customers and shape a sustainable future for the events industry. We're investing in innovation, people, and purpose—this role is your chance to be part of that evolution in a high-impact region.

What you'll get

• A chance to play a key role in European event planning with a high level of responsibility and autonomy.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Supportive, international team and a company culture that values bold ideas and taking initiative.
• Professional development opportunities to help you grow your career.
• 25 days' annual leave, plus bank holidays and statutory public holidays.

Our vision and values

We believe in trust, responsibility, understanding, and excellence in all we do. At GES, we take pride in helping our people and clients thrive—while working towards a more sustainable and successful future for the events industry.

This role may require occasional evening and weekend work during busy periods, as well as overseas travel where required.