R2R105133 - 132260 - Events Production Lead

Your New Organisation

Southend on Sea City Council is a Unitary local authority, providing vital services to meet the needs of the local community. We employ around 1,800 staff who are working alongside our partners and local communities to deliver the city vision and make lives better for the people of Southend. Working for Southend on Sea City Council offers a challenging and rewarding career in local government within a collaborative and innovative environment, with the benefit of flexible working practices to support a positive work life balance.

As a Unitary Authority we are responsible for all local government functions ranging from social services, transport, public health and parks through to planning, trading standards, community safety and education, so we offer a wide range of career opportunities. The diversity of our economy and communities and investment in a number of exciting regeneration projects makes our Council a great place to work, learn and make a difference.

Your new role

Are you passionate about creating standout events and memorable experiences? This is your opportunity to lead Southend-on-Sea’s year-round events programme and help shape the city’s reputation as a vibrant, creative coastal destination. Southend-on-Sea City Council are recruiting for an Events Production Lead on a full time and permanent contract. From the colourful creativity of Southend City Jam to the spectacular Halloween Parade, festivals and major city celebrations, you'll be at the heart of delivering some of Southend's most exciting and high-profile events.

As Events Production Lead, you’ll lead the planning and delivery of major public events, festivals and seasonal activations, taking ideas from concept through to successful delivery. We’re looking for an experienced and creative events professional who knows what it takes to bring ambitious public events to life. You’ll combine strong event production and safety knowledge with excellent leadership, project management and commercial skills. You will be confident working with emergency services, partners, stakeholders and suppliers to identify new partnerships, sponsorship and funding opportunities. You’ll manage and inspire the Events team, oversee budgets to deliver safe, inclusive and high-quality experiences. But it's not just about delivering great events, it's about creating what's next. You'll help grow and develop the programme, bringing fresh ideas, securing sponsorship and funding, and building exciting partnerships that attract visitors, boost the local economy and showcase the very best of Southend-on-Sea.

NB: The role requires flexible working, including evenings, weekends and Bank Holidays.

What you'll need to succeed

To be successful in this role, you’ll be an experienced events professional with a strong track record of planning and delivering large-scale public events or festivals. You will also have:

• Experience of managing event budgets, procurement, contractors and suppliers, with strong commercial and financial management skills.
• Extensive knowledge of event production, event safety, risk management and the regulatory requirements associated with public events, including licensing and Safety Advisory Group processes.
• Experience of working collaboratively with emergency services, regulatory bodies, partners and stakeholders to deliver safe and successful events.
• Experience of leading, developing and motivating teams to deliver high-quality services and outcomes.
• A proven ability to develop partnerships, secure sponsorship and identify opportunities that support the growth and sustainability of an events programme.
• Excellent project management, communication, negotiation and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and perform effectively under pressure.
• A degree or professional qualification in Event Management, Project Management, Tourism, Marketing or a related discipline, or equivalent relevant experience.

What you get in return

When joining the council, you can enjoy a range of benefits including: 25 days annual leave, flexible working and excellent training and development opportunities. They are committed to ensuring that you are supported in this varied and challenging role with the appropriate level of training. A full list of benefits provided by Southend Council can be viewed on the "Why Work For Us?" tab. The Council is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications, regardless of race, sex, disability, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marital or civil partner status, pregnancy or maternity, age or religion or belief.