Conference and Events Officer in Portsmouth

A vacancy has arisen in the busy Conferences and Lettings Office for a Conference and Events Officer.

Overview

Conferences and Lettings is a highly efficient small team within Estates and Campus Services with a remit to maximise income from the sale of services and facilities on campus to internal and external customers. This includes hosting conferences, events and catering functions all year round and selling student accommodation during the summer vacation period for individuals and groups.

Responsibilities

The role is to co‑ordinate the provision of operational support to the Assistant Commercial Manager necessary for the management and development of University accommodation and catering facilities. This includes the optimum efficient and profitable utilisation of resources in harmony with the core academic priorities of the University. The role specifically includes enquiry fulfilment, sales, event co‑ordination and invoicing. In a typical year the small team will manage around 3000 different bookings ranging from a single night B&B accommodation booking to a language school comprised of 250 people on a full board basis for six weeks, or a single meeting room to a large complex multi‑day conference for 500 people. Most customers are external to the University.

For this challenging position the post holder should have experience of selling events and facilities in higher education or hospitality sectors. Your experience in managing events will give you the confidence to work independently and you should possess excellent communication, organisational and IT skills and the ability to manage numerous small and large bookings simultaneously. The successful candidate will also require a flexible attitude to work patterns as the role involves some evening and weekend work. You should also thrive on working in a busy office environment and have a strong ethos in putting customers first.

Hours & Work Pattern

We are open to considering reduced hours for the right candidate, depending on experience and role requirements. We offer a balanced approach to hybrid working. When workload allows or during project‑focused periods, up to one day a week working from home can be considered. During busier times, particularly when events are taking place, in‑office presence will be required to support effective delivery.

Interview Information

The interviews are currently anticipated to be held on 10 March 2026.

Requirements

A basic Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check is required for this post.

Contact

David Goodwin, Commercial Manager
Email: david.goodwin@port.ac.uk
Phone: 023 9284 4567

Benefits

• Competitive salary, including incremental progression within the pension scheme.
• Generous leave entitlement of 32–35 days a year, plus bank holidays, and an additional Christmas closure.
• Family-friendly policies supporting flexible working.
• Staff discounts and loyalty schemes.
• Staff car parking and discounted public travel.
• Excellent training and development opportunities.
• Recreation facilities, including discounted gym membership, food on campus schemes, use of the Library and staff social activities.
• Discounted learning.
• Start-up business mentoring from expert entrepreneurs via our Entrepreneurs in Residence programme.

The perks don’t stop there - click ‘apply’ for further information on My Reward and Benefits.

UK EEO and Equality VI Statement

Prior to submitting your application, kindly ensure that you can either demonstrate or acquire the necessary right to work in the UK. If you currently do not possess the right to work in the UK, please be aware that our offer of employment is conditional upon you obtaining it.

ED&I Statement

We are committed to upholding the University’s values of being ambitious, open and responsible, in an inclusive working environment that promotes dignity and respect. Please note that this vacancy may be closed earlier than advertised, so early applications are advised.