At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the programming of live events, from concept to execution, ensuring engaging experiences.
- Company: The Observer, a progressive journalism platform focused on arts and ideas.
- Benefits: 30 days holiday, private healthcare, hybrid working, and free snacks in the newsroom.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for professional growth and creativity.
- 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 35000 - 45000 £ 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 + bank holidays.
- Private healthcare.
- Group income protection & life assurance.
- Pension.
- Cycle to Work scheme.
- Interest‑free season ticket loan.
- Free snacks and drinks in the newsroom.
- Hybrid working (London newsroom + 1 day remote flexibility).
Live Events Programmer employer: The Observer
The Observer is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that champions creativity and collaboration in the heart of London. With a commitment to editorial independence and progressive journalism, employees enjoy generous benefits including 30 days of holiday, private healthcare, and opportunities for professional growth through engaging live events programming. The hybrid working model allows for flexibility while fostering a dynamic environment where innovative ideas can flourish.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Live Events Programmer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend industry events, workshops, and meet-ups to connect with people in the live events space. You never know who might be looking for someone just like you!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion for live events! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, share your ideas on what makes a great event. This will demonstrate your enthusiasm and understanding of the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t shy away from social media! Use platforms like LinkedIn to showcase your experience and connect with industry leaders. Engage with their content and share your thoughts on current trends in live events.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining us at The Observer. Tailor your approach to highlight how your skills align with our mission and values.
We think you need these skills to ace Live Events Programmer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Live Events:When 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 you're excited about the opportunity to bring Observer journalism to life.
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in programming conferences or editorial events. Use the job description as a guide to align your skills with what we're looking for, and don't forget to mention any strong relationships you've built with speakers or contributors!
Be Clear and Concise:We appreciate clarity! Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use bullet points where necessary to make it easy for us to see your key achievements and how they relate to the role of Events Programmer.
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 keen on joining our team at The Observer!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Observer
✨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, focusing on how you developed themes, secured speakers, and ensured audience engagement. Be ready to discuss specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them to deliver successful events.
✨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 industry and your ability to curate compelling conversations for live events.
✨Demonstrate Collaboration
Highlight your experience working with various stakeholders, including editorial teams and external contributors. Share examples of how you've successfully collaborated to bring ideas to life, as this role requires strong teamwork to align programming with The Observer's priorities.
