At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the programming of live events, from concept to execution, ensuring engaging audience experiences.
- Company: The Observer, a progressive journalism platform focused on arts and ideas.
- Benefits: 30 days holiday, hybrid work model, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with a focus on audience engagement and innovative content.
- Why this job: Bring journalism to life through dynamic live events and impactful conversations.
- Qualifications: Experience in programming events, strong editorial judgement, and excellent communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
The Observer’s promise is in the name. The Observer bears witness; the best of journalism being curious minds at work. It loves the arts and ideas, both for their own sake and because they can change lives. It’s proudly progressive, but has no party allegiance. It’s open to different arguments and its editorial independence is non‑negotiable. We are building a new Observer across print, audio and digital. We’re here to build journalism that lasts.
About the role: The Observer delivers a broad mix of live experiences across the year, including editorial newsroom events, forums and a myriad of commercial events. We’re looking for an Events Programmer to lead the development of the content, conversations and audience experience across our live events portfolio. Working in close partnership with the Live Events Producer, this role will help shape the ideas behind our events and ensure they reflect the quality, curiosity and authority of Observer journalism.
This is a hands‑on programming role for someone who can take ideas from concept through to a compelling live agenda—developing themes, securing speakers, shaping formats and ensuring every event delivers strong editorial value and audience engagement. You’ll be responsible for ensuring our events are distinctive, relevant and aligned with Observer priorities, while helping drive subscriptions growth, reader engagement and commercial success.
What you’ll do:
- Lead the programming of live events, from initial concept development, speaker briefing and management, through to post‑event review.
- Develop themes, topics and formats for editorial events, forums, commercial partnerships and reader experiences.
- Research, identify and secure high‑quality speakers, moderators and contributors for commercial and editorial events.
- Build strong relationships with Observer journalists and editors to translate newsroom priorities into live conversations.
- Work in close partnership with the Live Events Producer to ensure programming and production plans align.
- Shape event agendas, session flow and audience experience to ensure engaging and well‑paced events.
- Ensure events support Observer subscriptions growth and retention through compelling audience‑first programming.
- Act as a key contact for speakers and contributors, managing outreach, briefing and content preparation.
- Collaborate with commercial teams to develop content‑led partnership opportunities where appropriate.
- Work with marketing teams to ensure event messaging clearly communicates the value of the programme.
- Compile and circulate a forward planning digest of domestic and international events to inform editors and align newsroom priorities with the wider news agenda.
- Support on‑site delivery, including speaker management, editorial quality control and programme execution.
- Lead post‑event programming reviews, gathering feedback and identifying opportunities to strengthen future events.
- Contribute to the long‑term development of The Observer’s live events strategy and editorial voice in live experiences.
Who we’re looking for:
We’re looking for someone who understands what makes a great live conversation and is excited about bringing Observer journalism to life through events. You’ll be comfortable working with senior editorial stakeholders, external contributors and commercial teams, and confident in shaping content that works for both audiences and partners.
You may already be programming conferences or editorial events, working in media or content roles, or producing content‑led experiences and looking to take on more strategic responsibility.
You’ll likely bring:
- Experience programming conferences, talks, media events or thought leadership forums.
- Strong editorial judgement and the ability to identify compelling topics and speakers.
- Experience securing speakers or managing contributors.
- Confidence in managing multiple projects in a fast‑moving environment.
- Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
- A collaborative approach and the ability to work closely with production and commercial colleagues.
- A strong interest in journalism, current affairs, arts, culture or ideas.
- A practical, solutions‑focused mindset.
Ideal experience:
- Experience programming content‑led events in media, publishing, cultural or commercial environments.
- Experience working closely with editorial teams or journalists.
- Experience developing event formats and audience experiences.
- Understanding of how live events can support audience growth and reader revenue.
- Experience working on both editorial and commercially supported events.
- Strong professional networks across media, culture, politics, business or the creative industries.
Salary & Benefits: 30 days holiday +
Live Events Programmer employer: The Observer, company
The Observer is an exceptional employer that champions creativity and progressive journalism, offering a dynamic work environment in London. With a strong focus on employee growth, the company provides opportunities to lead innovative live events that engage audiences and reflect the quality of its editorial content. The hybrid work model, generous holiday allowance, and collaborative culture make it an attractive place for those passionate about the arts and ideas.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Live Events Programmer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend industry events, meet-ups, and conferences related to live events programming. It's all about making connections and getting your name out there. Plus, you never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion for live events! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, share your ideas for engaging event themes or speakers. This will demonstrate your enthusiasm and creativity, making you stand out from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t be shy about following up! After meeting someone at an event or sending your application, drop them a quick message to express your interest. A little persistence can go a long way in keeping you top of mind.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities waiting for you, and applying directly shows you’re serious about joining The Observer team. Plus, it’s super easy to keep track of your applications this way!
We think you need these skills to ace Live Events Programmer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Live Events:When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for live events shine through! Share specific examples of events you've programmed or attended that inspired you, and explain why they matter to you. We love seeing candidates who are genuinely excited about bringing journalism to life.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the job description. Highlight your experience in programming events and how it aligns with our mission at The Observer. We want to see how your skills can contribute to our vision, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant achievements!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and structure your thoughts logically. We appreciate a well-organised application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications and fit for the role. Remember, clarity is key!
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 proactive and keen to join our team at The Observer!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Observer, company
✨Know Your Audience
Before the interview, research The Observer's recent live events and their themes. Understanding what resonates with their audience will help you demonstrate your ability to create engaging content that aligns with their editorial values.
✨Showcase Your Programming Skills
Prepare examples of past events you've programmed or contributed to. Be ready to discuss how you developed themes, secured speakers, and ensured audience engagement. This will highlight your hands-on experience and strategic thinking.
✨Engage with Current Affairs
Stay updated on current events, especially in journalism, arts, and culture. Being able to discuss relevant topics during your interview will show your passion for the field and your ability to curate compelling conversations.
✨Build Relationships
Emphasise your experience in stakeholder management. Discuss how you've built strong relationships with contributors and editorial teams in the past. This will illustrate your collaborative approach and ability to work effectively within a team.
