Events Manager
Salary: £24,000 - £32,000
Position: Full Time
The Henry Jackson Society
The Henry Jackson Society (HJS) is a think tank and policy-shaping force that fights for the principles and alliances which keep societies free – working across borders and party lines to combat extremism, advance democracy and real human rights, and make a stand in an increasingly uncertain world.
Our mission is to be a force that fights for the principles and alliances which keep societies free – working across borders and party lines to combat extremism, advance democracy and fundamental human rights, and make a stand in an increasingly uncertain world.
The Role
The successful candidate will ensure smooth running of all events in run in Parliament and other prestigious venues, including abroad when necessary. This position is an opportunity for a well-rounded individual to contribute to one of the best regarded events schedules in Westminster and to develop relationships with international and domestic policy figures.
Key Duties
- Identifying speakers for the parliamentary programme, and approaching them, confirming them, securing host MPs/peers and acting as the main point of contact for the organisation of each event.
- Publicising events appropriately and ensuring that traditional and social media avenues are used to their full potential to maximise the quality and quantity of attendees.
- Attending all events and ensuring that they proceed smoothly (e.g. greeting speaker and host, keeping meeting to time, dealing with crowd control etc.).
- Managing HJS private lunches and dinners, including arrangement of speakers and guests.
- Managing HJS seminars, conferences and briefings, as well as those of HJS associated projects, including travel abroad where appropriate.
- Providing input into new event ideas, to be discussed with colleagues and the Executive Director.
- Ensuring events are budgeted properly and that costs are kept to a minimum.
- Maintaining an event provider database that can act as a source of reference for future events (e.g. venue charges, menu options, equipment providers etc.).
- Sourcing potential sponsorship for events – whether corporate or individual – and working with colleagues to enable this to be actualised, including through conducting sponsorship meetings with potential clients.
- Looking after VIP attendees at events.
Such other duties may be assigned by the Executive Director or their nominee.
Health, Safety & Wellbeing Considerations
This role involves undertaking duties which include the Health, Safety and wellbeing issues outlined below. Please be aware of these, when considering your suitability for the role.
- Regular use of screen display equipment
- Occasional lifting/carrying of heavy equipment
Person Specification
The person specification details the necessary skills, qualifications, experience or other attributes needed to carry out the job.
Qualifications / Training
- GCSE English and maths or equivalent
Experience / Knowledge
- Previous experience in an administrative role
- Experience with use of databases
- Experience of managing events
- Understanding of Parliament and parliamentary processes
Skills / Abilities
- Good IT skills, particularly Microsoft Office packages
- Good communication skills both written and verbal
- Accurate data entry skills
- Ability to work independently to prioritise a varied workload
- Ability to work well as a member of a team
- Ability to handle high-pressured environments
- Excellent organisational skills
Additional Attributes
- Willingness to work outside of normal working hours without time of in lieu
- Ability to work flexibly as role demands
- Pro-active and self-motivated with a drive to develop and willingness to undertake further training if necessary
- Passionate and enthusiastic about the work of HJS