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- Tasks: Assist with event logistics, setup, and stakeholder engagement for impactful events.
- Company: Join The James Hutton Institute, a leader in tackling climate change and food security issues.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working options and gain hands-on experience in event management.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team making a difference while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Ideal for students seeking event experience; strong communication and organisational skills required.
- Other info: Availability for evenings and weekends is essential during key event dates.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
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The work undertaken by The James Hutton Institute is right at the top of the global agenda tackling problems such as the impact of climate change and threats to food and water security.
The Communications Teams delivers across the remits of media, marketing, digital, events, public affairs, corporate and internal communications, all designed to support and promote the work of the James Hutton Institute.
This post will focus on engagement activities with key stakeholders, initially by supporting a range of events but also our venue services team too.
These will include field-based engagements as well as high-profile events involving funders, politicians, and other influential partners; and also in supporting delivery of some venue services functions such as reception and supporting on internally-hosted events.
The main duties of this role include supporting the Communications Team with event logistics—ranging from event setup and breakdown to administrative tasks, coordinating event equipment, attending committee meetings and taking minutes, engaging with stakeholders, coordinating and distributing delegate information, as well as researching and assisting with the preparation of briefing materials.
It also requires helping staff reception, support on bookings and room set ups as needed.
This role will be based in Invergowrie, Dundee, with the Communications Assistant expected to be on-site for events and their preparation. A hybrid working option may be considered when delivering administrative tasks. The Assistant will also be required to travel to other locations where events are held.
Potatoes in Practice: 7 August
Climate Week Northeast: September
Doors Open Days: 27-28 September
The James Hutton Institute Annual Symposium: November
Other key dates involving funders for specific projects still be confirmed.
Due to the set up and dismantling of the events, we will require someone to be available for the following dates:
4-8 August 2025
22-26 September 2025
29 September – 3 October 2025
These dates will require some evening and weekend work and will mainly involve setting up and dismantling events equipment.
More information on the detail of the post and the post holder can be found below in the job description.
Main purpose of job
To work with colleagues to execute successfully the day-to-day tactical delivery of James Hutton Group portfolio of events: corporate events, significant internal events, strategic events for profile-raising and public engagement.
To support the venue services team on providing reception cover, helping with room bookings and set ups and responding to queries.
Main duties of postholder
- Assist with the Summer/Autumn events programme, ranging from small meetings and visits to large lectures and outdoor field-based events.
- Provide onsite assistance at all events, including on the run up to and post- event.
- Set up and dismantle the equipment required for each event.
- Manage and co-ordinate event equipment – including storage, maintenance, and upkeep of inventory.
- Help with the reception desks and any ad hoc duties required to make events run smoothly. Ad-hoc duties at events include, but are not limited to, manage attendee lists, direct exhibitors to their stands, inform volunteers about tasks.
- Be a first point of contact for attendees/exhibitors at events for general assistance and emergency protocols.
- Support the Events Officer with manual, logistical and administrative tasks.
- Liaise with and co-ordinate with suppliers and exhibitors.
- Attend meetings, minute taking and act as a second point of contact.
- Support Venue Services team as and when required in relation to administrative tasks and reception duties.
Qualifications/Skills/Knowledge
Essential Qualifications
- This post would be ideal for someone currently studying a related degree or looking to gain further event experience.
- The postholder will be expected to coordinate and take the lead on a range of manual tasks associated with the role. Please note that this is a physically demanding position with a strong focus on manual work
- Willingness to assist with all tasks that is associated with setting up and dismantling events.
- High standard of written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to organise own work effectively, prioritising competing workloads and working to tight timescales.
- Good attention to detail and accuracy.
- Creative mindset, proactive and flexible with the ability to problem solve under pressure.
- Strong ability to work as part of a team and to also use own initiative.
- A good working knowledge of Microsoft Office.
- Excellent interpersonal skills, ability to speak comfortably and professionally to a wide range of people and engage positively with others.
- Ability to understand the importance and adhere to health and safety regulations.
- Full, clean, UK Driver’s license.
- Experience of working on events that range in size and delivery style.
This role does not attract a certificate of sponsorship.
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Communications Assistant employer: The James Hutton Institute
Contact Detail:
The James Hutton Institute Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Communications Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the James Hutton Institute's mission and recent events. Understanding their focus on climate change and food security will help you engage more effectively with stakeholders during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the events and communications field. Attend relevant industry events or webinars to meet people who might provide insights or even referrals for the Communications Assistant role.
✨Tip Number 3
Gain hands-on experience by volunteering at local events or organisations. This will not only enhance your CV but also give you practical skills that are directly applicable to the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully managed event logistics or worked as part of a team. Highlighting your problem-solving skills and ability to work under pressure will make you stand out.
We think you need these skills to ace Communications Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in event management and communications. Emphasise any previous roles where you supported events, managed logistics, or engaged with stakeholders.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the mission of The James Hutton Institute. Mention specific events or projects that resonate with you and explain how your skills align with the job requirements.
Showcase Communication Skills: Since strong written and verbal communication skills are essential, provide examples in your application of how you've effectively communicated in past roles. This could include writing reports, taking minutes, or engaging with diverse audiences.
Highlight Teamwork and Initiative: The role requires working as part of a team and using your initiative. Share experiences where you've successfully collaborated with others or taken the lead on tasks, especially in high-pressure situations.
How to prepare for a job interview at The James Hutton Institute
✨Show Your Passion for Events
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for event management and the specific events mentioned in the job description. Highlight any relevant experience you have, whether it's organising small gatherings or participating in larger events.
✨Demonstrate Strong Communication Skills
Since the role requires excellent verbal and written communication, prepare examples of how you've effectively communicated with diverse groups. Be ready to discuss how you would engage with stakeholders and attendees at events.
✨Highlight Your Organisational Skills
The ability to manage multiple tasks is crucial for this position. Share specific instances where you've successfully organised events or projects, detailing how you prioritised tasks and met deadlines.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Given the physically demanding nature of the role, be prepared to discuss how you would handle setting up and dismantling equipment. Think about potential challenges you might face during events and how you would solve them.
