Head of Events

The Royal Warrant Holders Association (RWHA) is incorporated by Royal Charter and works to achieve the following:

• To ensure the continued existence of the Royal Warrant of Appointment
• To uphold its unique status within business
• To protect and foster the interests of Warrant holders

Established in 1840, it represents individuals and companies holding Royal Warrants of Appointment. These are a mark of recognition of those who have supplied goods or services for at least five years to the Royal Household and who have a continuing trading relationship. The RWHA collates applications for new Royal Warrants and changes to existing ones whilst monitoring the use of the Royal Arms. This work is done within a governance framework known as the Lord Chamberlain’s Rules. We are not part of the Royal Household but belong to our 600 members.

You will be working in an exciting, diverse and dynamic environment. A key part of the work with our members is the 30-plus annual events. The range is considerable - from small to large gatherings in different parts of the country, from the substantial Annual Banquet to 15-strong workshops on sustainability, with business seminars to women’s networking events, sporting days, wine tastings, exhibiting at the Royal Windsor Horse Show and a host of others. The events are a key benefit of membership designed to promote networking, knowledge-sharing and a sense of community amongst the membership body. They can also provide opportunities for corporate hospitality and engagement with the Royal Household.

The successful candidate will also be responsible for developing and managing the events budget along with marketing of the events programme across all media platforms including, but not limited to, the RWHA website, e-newsletters, social media, members’ magazine and any other relevant platforms. In addition to the Events, the role also incorporates responsibility for assisting with, and in some instances leading on, specific projects, including development of our significant sustainability programme, supported by relevant marketing and communication from the team.

You will report to the Executive Director, working closely with the Director of Warrants developing content for e-comms contact, together with compilation of, and commissioning content for, magazines and other publications as agreed; responsibility for digital projects, including social media. Working with the Executive Director, the Development Manager and external partners, develop the Association’s sustainability policies and programmes for members. Support the National President during their year, particularly around their attendance at events and company visits. Ensure regular contact with Royal Household colleagues. Grow opportunities for practical engagement with our companies, specialists and agencies.

Qualifications, skills and experience:

• Proven experience in a senior event management role, including programming, detailed budgeting, on-site management, marketing and supplier management;
• Proven experience in marketing development (both online and offline);
• Understanding of business sustainability practices;
• Skills in relationship-building, particularly liaising with multiple stakeholders;
• Proven ability to work effectively with individuals at all levels within and outside of the organisation, including senior management and C-suite;
• Some experience in people management and development;
• Experience of working and engaging with membership bodies, or similar, requiring experience of digital and social media;
• Senior-level project management experience;
• Some knowledge of website development, including functionality and content, and the ability to direct changes and enhancements;
• Knowledge and appreciation of British brands, from a variety of industries;
• Excellent organisational and time management skills, able to multi-task, with a flexible, ‘can do’ attitude.

Personal qualities and attributes:

• Contributes effectively to the culture and team dynamic of the organisation, collaborates and supports as required;
• Embodies qualities which motivate and earn the respect of colleagues, member companies, external bodies and other stakeholders;
• Understands sensitivities among stakeholders and the significance of managing reputation;
• Willingness to work ‘hands on’; can translate strategy and planning into action, works to deadlines, prioritises and works effectively under pressure;
• Self-awareness; can influence, communicate and advocate appropriately in all relationships;
• Resilient in the face of challenge; focuses on solutions, not problems;
• Excellent communication skills;
• Flexible and pro-active approach;
• Discretion and the proven ability to maintain confidentiality.

Key Contacts and Relationships:

• RWHA Team
• The President and Members of the Council
• Local Associations
• RWHA Member companies
• RWH Charity
• The Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust (QEST)

This job description highlights the main areas of responsibility, but the list of tasks is not exhaustive, and given the nature of the role and small team working, a high degree of flexibility is required.