Global Events Manager (FTC - Maternity Cover) in Canterbury

Full-time

About us

We are an award-winning, industry-leading events company that specialises in full-scale Festival Experiences and bespoke Leadership events - all focussed within the Talent Acquisition industry globally with events in Europe, Middle East, and the US with more to come. Our goal is to raise the profile of TA, and empower those that make a difference. With a community-centred brand at the core of our business, we have our finger on the pulse of the industry and a wealth of experience to be able to facilitate and create premier event experiences.

This is a hybrid role with one day per week in the office (Canterbury). We are currently looking for a Global Events Manager to join us on an FTC basis to cover maternity leave. Ideally, the successful candidate will start with us in April for a handover.

The Global Events Manager is a pivotal role designed to build robust operational and marketing frameworks. This position is crucial for professionalising our existing UK operations and supporting the strategic expansion in international markets, specifically MENA and the US. This role offers significant autonomy and a clear pathway for professional development. The role encompasses the end-to-end delivery of a designated portfolio of events, ensuring success across commercial, operational, and audience engagement metrics. A critical element of this role involves designing and implementing scalable processes and strategies that will serve as the foundational blueprint for our future global event footprint.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the Chief Operating Officer on the strategic vision and objectives for the assigned event portfolio and future international expansion.
• Develop comprehensive event plans including timelines, budgets, resource allocation, and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), with a focus on scalability and international application.
• Conduct market research and competitor analysis to identify trends and opportunities for event growth and innovation in the UK, MENA and US, as well as potential new markets.
• Build out a comprehensive 'playbook' for our events, ensuring best practices and processes are documented for consistent global application.
• Design and document repeatable operational frameworks for adaptation and implementation by future teams in new regions.

Marketing & Audience Development

• Lead the development and execution of robust marketing and communication strategies for events to drive delegate attendance, sponsorship, and exhibitor engagement.
• Oversee multi-channel marketing campaigns (digital, email, social media, PR, partnerships) to maximise reach and conversion globally.
• Develop compelling event messaging and content considering cultural nuances and market specifics for future international rollout.
• Oversee the templating of our marketing and communications collateral for events, ensuring these can be readily adapted and used globally whilst maintaining brand consistency.
• Collaborate with the wider marketing team to ensure effective promotional activities, contributing to a global marketing playbook.

Operations & Logistics Management (UK & Global Foundations)

• Manage all operational aspects of events, including venue sourcing and liaison, and supplier negotiation and management (AV, catering, registration, exhibition build, security, health & safety).
• Develop detailed event schedules, floor plans, and operational manuals that can serve as templates for international events.
• Oversee on-site event execution for UK events, ensuring smooth operations, a high-quality delegate experience, and effective problem-solving.
• Ensure compliance with health & safety regulations and event specific requirements, and research best practice for international compliance.
• Manage and monitor UK event budgets, track expenditure, and forecast financial performance for the portfolio.
• Collaborate with the commercial team to achieve revenue targets (delegate sales, sponsorship, exhibition) and manage costs effectively for profitability.
• Prepare regular financial reports and provide insightful analysis to senior management.
• Identify commercial opportunities and implement strategies to enhance revenue streams, considering potential models for international market entry.

Stakeholder & Relationship Management

• Build and maintain strong relationships with internal teams, external suppliers, partners, sponsors, exhibitors, and key stakeholders.
• Act as the primary point of contact for all event-related enquiries in your portfolio.
• Liaise with potential international partners or consultants as required to lay groundwork for expansion.
• Coordinate and lead cross-functional project teams for each event, ensuring clear communication and accountability.
• Mentor and guide junior team members or project resources as required, with an eye towards training future international teams.

Post-Event Analysis & Reporting

• Conduct thorough post-event evaluations for UK events, including financial reconciliation, delegate feedback analysis, and KPI reporting.
• Identify areas for improvement and implement learnings for future events, critically assessing how these learnings can inform international expansion strategies.

We know that not every candidate will have every single thing on this list, but if you believe you have the majority of the skills and experience we're looking for, we'd still love to hear from you. We highly value a positive attitude and a strong bias for action.

Requirements

• Proven track record (5+ years) in a senior management position in the events industry, with demonstrable experience managing complex events from inception to completion.
• Experience managing events of varying scales, including large-scale conferences or exhibitions (e.g., 5,000+ delegates).
• Strong understanding and hands-on experience in both event marketing and operational logistics.
• Demonstrable experience in budget management and financial oversight, with a clear understanding of P&L principles.
• A strategic mindset with proven ability to develop scalable processes and operational blueprints.
• Experience or strong interest in international market entry or global operations.
• Excellent project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet tight deadlines.
• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Highly organised, detail-oriented, and able to work effectively under pressure.
• Proficiency in event management software, CRM systems, and Microsoft Office Suite.
• A proactive, solution-oriented approach with a passion for delivering outstanding event experiences.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a remote team.
• Willingness to travel for events and attend the Canterbury office one day per week.

Desirable Skills (but not essential)

• Experience with specific event types (e.g., community-led events, industry conferences).
• Experience using specific event technology platforms.
• Knowledge of international event regulations or market nuances (e.g., US market).