Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and deliver exciting events that connect the UK defence community.
- Company: Make UK Defence, a key player in the UK's defence manufacturing sector.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, paid volunteering leave, and excellent benefits.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for travel and professional growth.
- Why this job: Create impactful experiences and strengthen the UK's defence capability.
- Qualifications: Proven event management experience and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.
Competitive salaries and excellent benefits including up to one day’s paid leave each year to undertake volunteering opportunities. Make UK Defence is a growing trade association representing the UK’s defence manufacturing sector. We work with government, industry leaders, and supply chain organisations to strengthen the UK’s defence capability and support business growth across the sector.
This is a fast‑paced, hands‑on role responsible for delivering a diverse programme of events that support our strategic objectives and bring our network together. You’ll lead on the end‑to‑end delivery of conferences, exhibitions, networking events, webinars and “Meet the Buyer” programmes ensuring every event is professional, engaging and delivers real value to our members and partners. From major exhibitions like DSEI to smaller, targeted networking sessions, you’ll be central to creating impactful experiences that reflect the strength of the UK defence sector.
Responsibilities- Event Planning & Delivery
- Manage the full lifecycle of events (in‑person, hybrid and virtual), from concept through to delivery
- Develop programmes, schedules and logistics plans aligned to organisational goals
- Oversee venues, suppliers, AV, catering, branding and event operations
- Ensure seamless on‑the‑day delivery and high‑quality delegate experience
- Coordinate Make UK Defence’s presence at major exhibitions
- Support member companies within shared pavilion spaces
- Manage logistics, exhibitor liaison and post‑event reporting
- Stakeholder Engagement
- Build strong relationships with internal teams, members, sponsors and suppliers
- Collaborate closely with colleagues to maximise engagement and attendance
- Support the development of networking opportunities tailored to member needs
- Marketing & Communications
- Work with marketing teams to promote events across multiple channels
- Manage registrations and delegate communications
- Gather feedback and produce post‑event insights and reports
- Develop and monitor event budgets, ensuring all activities are delivered within agreed cost parameters
- Prepare financial reports, reconcile expenses and track sponsorship income
About You
- You’ll be an organised and proactive events professional who thrives on delivering high‑quality experiences in a dynamic environment.
- Proven experience managing events from concept to completion
- Strong project management skills with the ability to juggle multiple priorities
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
- Experience managing budgets and working with external suppliers
- A hands‑on, collaborative approach with the ability to work independently
- Experience within a membership organisation, trade body, or defence/manufacturing environment
- Exposure to large‑scale exhibitions or trade shows
- Familiarity with CRM systems and event platforms
- Professional, confident and approachable
- Calm under pressure with a solution‑focused mindset
- Highly organised with strong attention to detail
- Flexible and willing to travel or support events outside standard hours when required
Events Manager – Make UK Defence employer: Make UK
Contact Detail:
Make UK Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Events Manager – Make UK Defence
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend industry events, webinars, and meet-ups to connect with people in the defence sector. The more you engage, the better your chances of landing that Events Manager role.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your skills! Create a portfolio of past events you've managed, highlighting your project management prowess and attention to detail. This will give potential employers a taste of what you can bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Reach out to Make UK Defence directly through our website. Express your interest in the Events Manager position and share how your experience aligns with their goals. A personal touch can make all the difference!
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for interviews by researching the latest trends in the defence sector and understanding Make UK Defence's mission. Being knowledgeable will help you stand out and show you're genuinely interested in the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Events Manager – Make UK Defence
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Events Manager role. Highlight your event management experience, especially in delivering high-quality experiences, as this is key for us at Make UK Defence.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about events and how your background makes you a perfect fit for our team. Don’t forget to mention any relevant experience in the defence or manufacturing sectors.
Showcase Your Project Management Skills: We love organised folks! In your application, be sure to demonstrate your project management skills. Share examples of how you've successfully managed multiple events or projects simultaneously, as this is crucial for the fast-paced environment we work in.
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 us you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Make UK
✨Know Your Events Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into the types of events Make UK Defence hosts. Familiarise yourself with their past events, especially major exhibitions like DSEI. This will not only show your enthusiasm but also help you discuss how your experience aligns with their needs.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
Be ready to share specific examples of how you've managed events from start to finish. Highlight your ability to juggle multiple priorities and ensure high-quality delivery. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses effectively.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Demonstrate your communication skills by discussing how you've built relationships with various stakeholders in previous roles. Share examples of how you’ve collaborated with teams, sponsors, and suppliers to enhance event experiences.
✨Budgeting Know-How is Key
Since managing budgets is crucial for this role, prepare to talk about your experience with financial planning for events. Be specific about how you tracked expenses and maximised sponsorship income, as this will show your capability in handling the financial aspects of event management.