About the Major Projects Association
The Major Projects Association is the UK's leading professional association dedicated to improving the initiation and delivery of major projects.
Our members comprise senior leaders from government departments, infrastructure owners and operators, major contractors, professional service firms, investors and academia. Together, they are responsible for some of the UK's most significant infrastructure, transformation and capital investment programmes.
Through research, events, leadership development and the sharing of practical experience, the Association provides a trusted forum where members collaborate to improve the success of major projects and contribute to economic growth and societal outcomes.
The Role
The Major Projects Association is seeking an Events Manager (Maternity Cover) to manage the operational planning and delivery of the Association's annual events programme, ensuring that events are delivered efficiently, professionally and to a consistently high standard.
Working closely with the Head of Membership, Events & Content, the Events Manager coordinates the planning and delivery of in-person, virtual and hybrid events. The postholder will work with colleagues, speakers, venues, suppliers and delegates to ensure that event logistics, administration and delivery are effectively managed, contributing to a high-quality experience for members and stakeholders.
The postholder oversees the day-to-day management of event operations, including speaker liaison, venue and supplier coordination, delegate registration, CRM administration and post-event reporting. They also support the continuous improvement of event processes and systems, providing operational insight and recommendations to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of the Association's events.
Reporting to the Head of Membership, Events & Content, the Event Manager line manages the Event Coordinator, providing day-to-day guidance and support to ensure the successful delivery of the Association's events.
Responsibilities
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
- Manage the operational planning and delivery of the Association's annual events programme, ranging from small member meetings to flagship conferences and seminars of up to 250 delegates.
- Work closely with the Head of Membership, Events & Content, the Programme Committee, Technical Advisors and colleagues to support the development and delivery of the Association's annual programme of events.
- Manage the operational delivery of in-person, virtual and hybrid events, overseeing onsite activity including registration, speaker management, venue liaison and delegate experience.
- Conduct post-event evaluations, reporting on attendance, feedback, budgets and recommendations for future improvements for Programme Committee consideration
- Working with the Head of Membership, Events & Content, prepare the agenda and supporting reports and plans for Programme Committee meetings.
- Act as secretariate for the Programme Committee.
- Work closely with the Finance Assistant to ensure members are invoiced accurately and promptly for the Prestige Lecture.
- Monitor event expenditure against agreed budgets, promptly highlighting any actual or forecast overspends to the Head of Finance and Business Operations.
- Support the annual budget preparation process by providing accurate event costs and forecasts.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with speakers, chairs, technical advisors, venues and external suppliers.
- Manage speaker liaison from invitation through to event delivery, including briefing meetings and coordinating presentations and supporting materials.
- Source venues, negotiate contracts and oversee supplier performance to ensure events are delivered within budget and to a high standard.
- Ensure all logistical arrangements are planned, documented and communicated effectively.
- Maintain accurate event records within the Association’s CRM system and oversee delegate registration, invitations and joining instructions.
- Produce event documentation including agendas, briefing notes, speaker packs, delegate lists, badges and presentation slides.
- Work with colleagues to ensure event webpages, promotional materials and communications are accurate, engaging and aligned with the Association’s brand.
- Ensure accurate reporting and data management across all events.
- Build positive relationships with the programme committee, members, delegates, sponsors, speakers and external stakeholders.
- Ensure every stage of the speaker and delegate journeys reflects a professional, welcoming and high-quality experience.
- Support the promotion of events to maximise attendance and member engagement.
- Provide day-to-day guidance and support to the Events Coordinator.
- Develop and improve event management processes, templates and systems, identifying opportunities to improve efficiency.
- Support wider organisational projects and contribute to the continuous improvement of the Association’s operations.
Essential Skills & Experience
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Confidence communicating with a wide range of stakeholders, including senior industry leaders and external partners.
- Excellent organisational and project coordination abilities.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
- Ability to remain calm and professional in fast-paced or changing environments.
- Strong attention to detail.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and CRM platforms.
- Ability to work independently while contributing positively to a small team.
Desirable Skills & Experience
- Experience within a membership association, professional body or trade association.
- Ability to understand and present data in a clear and useful manner is advantageous.
- Knowledge of the major projects industry would be an advantage but is not essential.
Personal Attributes
The successful candidate will be:
- Curious and interested in the major projects sector.
- Pro-active and self-motivated.
- Professional and engaging when engaging with senior stakeholders.
- Adaptable and willing to learn.
- Committed to delivering exceptional member experiences.
- Enthusiastic about committing to the growth and impact of the Major Projects Association.
- Willing to travel across the UK for events where required (primarily London, Birmingham and the North West). Travel and accommodation costs will be covered by the Association where applicable.
Benefits
In addition to a competitive salary, we are pleased to offer;
- 28 days annual leave (including bank holidays) – or full time equivalent.
- Time off in lieu (TOIL).
- Up to 10% pension contribution scheme when matched by the employee.
- Flexible working arrangements following a satisfactory probationary period, subject to the needs of the Association.
- Learning and development opportunities.
- Opportunity to work closely with senior leaders across the UK major projects community.
- Opportunity to attend a wide range of industry events and conferences.
- A friendly, supportive and collaborative team environment.
Employment Type
Reports to: Head of Membership, Events & Content
Contract: Full-time, maternity cover
Location: Hybrid (Oxfordshire, London and home working) with attendance at Association events as required.
Pay: £33,000.00-£36,000.00 per year
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Eynsham OX29
