About Populous
For more than 40 years Populous has had a singular focus – to draw people together around the things that they love, to be the leading design firm that specialises in places, spaces and events where people gather. Our success is defined by designing projects that are seen as the benchmark. We are committed to future innovation, anticipating and shaping the future of our industries.
Our team is made up of highly talented people with a range of skills, all integral to successfully bringing to life the places and experiences we design. As our company has grown, our expertise has expanded to encompass a wide variety of disciplines – including architecture, audiovisual consultancy, brand activation, design & build, events, food & beverage strategy, interior design, landscape architecture, urban design and wayfinding.
This varied expertise enables us to transform neighbourhoods, revitalise cities, build relationships and create buildings, places and spaces that draw people together, from the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium to The Co-op Live Arena.
As we continue to bring to life award-winning venues and experiences our EMEA Practice is looking for a Travel and Events Coordinator based in our Putney studio.
About the Role
This role sits within our Admin team. The Travel and Events Coordinator will own and evolve our approach to business travel and internal events, acting as a trusted expert and driving a high standard of delivery across the organisation. This is a pivotal role for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment and brings a commercial, solutions-focused mindset. You will shape and deliver a high-quality, seamless travel and events experience, balancing operational excellence with cost control and continuous improvement.
Key responsibilities include:
Travel Management
- Lead and optimise business travel across the organisation
- Act as the go-to expert for all travel-related queries, supporting a small team of travel bookers with complex issues and escalations
- Ensure travel solutions are cost-effective, efficient, and policy-compliant
- Manage relationships with travel agencies, hotels, and suppliers
- Negotiate competitive rates and preferred agreements
Events Delivery
- Lead the planning and delivery of high-quality internal events, creating engaging experiences aligned with company culture. Assist with key moments in the company calendar, including seasonal and regional events, staff parties and socials.
- Source and manage venues, catering, and suppliers
- Deliver end-to-end event execution, from planning through to delivery
Commercial & Operational Ownership
- Take ownership of travel and events budgets
- Monitor spend, report on performance, and identify cost-saving opportunities
- Ensure value for money across all bookings and supplier partnerships
- Maintain alignment with company policies and governance
Collaboration & Communication
- Work with teams across the business to understand requirements and deliver solutions
- Communicate clearly to drive engagement and participation in events
- Support internal meetings and functions with catering coordination
- Lead regular engagement with the travel booking team to ensure alignment and uphold best practice
Continuous Improvement
- Identify and implement improvements to processes, cost efficiency, and user experience
- Maintain accurate records of bookings, suppliers, and event activity
- Bring industry insight and best practice to enhance delivery
Key requirements include:
- Proven experience within a travel management company (TMC) or in-house corporate travel role, with a strong understanding of travel operations, supplier management, and cost-effective delivery. Strong understanding of travel booking, fare structures, and ticketing rules
- Proven experience negotiating with suppliers and managing commercial relationships
- Demonstrated ability to manage budgets, track spend, and deliver efficiencies
- Experience delivering end-to-end events
- Highly organised with strong attention to detail and the ability to manage competing priorities
- Confident communicator, comfortable engaging with stakeholders at all levels
- Proactive, adaptable, and solutions-focused
About the Studio
Our Putney studio, which is also our EMEA Headquarters, is located on the banks of the River Thames, a short walk from Putney High Street and with excellent travel connections. Our employees enjoy a comprehensive and competitive benefits programme, as well as the opportunity to attend events at several Populous-designed venues.
Why Join the Team?
- Work alongside passionate, creative individuals who lead their industry, transform ideas into reality and celebrate the beauty of human connection
- Enjoy various benefits, such as hybrid working and gym membership discounts
- Enjoy the opportunity to attend events at Populous-designed venues
- Connect and learn at regular social and knowledge sharing events including an annual conference and a weekend abroad Christmas party
How to Apply
Populous is an equal opportunity employer. If you’re ready to utilise your skills to support our growing practice, click “Apply” to begin the application process. In your application, please include your CV and a one-page letter of motivation (cover letter), salary expectations, and availability.
Want to learn more about us?
Find us here: Populous
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