Events and Networks Manager

This role will be based on the University campus, with scope for it to be undertaken in a hybrid manner. We are open to discussing flexible working arrangements.

Are you an experienced events professional skilled in managing strategic event programmes? Do you have what it takes to help us design and deliver an ambitious events and networks strategy to engage a global audience?, As Events & Networks Manager you will lead a team of events and networks professionals, motivating and managing them to deliver outstanding events and activities to build alumni networks at quality and scale.
You will have substantial experience of managing and planning a programme of multiple events targeting a range of audiences, both in person and online; on a large and small scale, and experience of how to maximise the positive attendee experience to deliver clear, strategic outcomes.
You will have strong collaborative and networking skills, with the ability to develop relationships with a variety of colleagues to identify needs and opportunities and the role that our events and networks could play in addressing them.
You will be motivated by the power and energy of bringing people together in person and online, and the positive impact that can have on the people who attend, the University and the wider Leeds community. You will be able to motivate and support your team to develop creative ideas that address the needs of the University and our global alumni and supporter audiences, and to turn those ideas into activity.
You will have experience in developing and utilising planning and project management processes and systems, ensuring a busy events and networks programme stays on track. You will ensure that activities align with objectives, success is measured effectively, and all processes are efficient and streamlined.

The University of Leeds engages with one of the largest alumni communities in UK higher education, comprising over 340,000 graduates across 190 countries, as well as a wider group of supporters. They are a vital part of our community, and we are committed to involving them in the life of the University, enhancing connections, sharing insights and working together to make a positive impact on the world.
Our events and other 'experiential' activity that brings alumni and supporters together both in person and online are a critical part of our engagement, and over the next five years we plan to significantly increase opportunities for alumni and supporters to interact with the University, strengthen the impact of our events in fostering relationships with potential advocates, volunteers, and donors, and build our local alumni networks across the world. Every event is purpose-driven, with clear objectives focused on strengthening our community, and many play a key role in broader engagement strategies for specific individuals or audiences.
We are looking for an experienced Manager to lead the Events and Networks team in delivering, enhancing, and expanding our programme of events, both in the UK and internationally, in-person and online. These include large-scale gatherings to intimate dinners and discussions and from formal presentations highlighting cutting-edge research to informal get-togethers that foster a sense of community. Our goal is to inspire and engage our audiences, making them feel like valued members of an extraordinary community.
At the same time you will be leading the team in developing activity to our alumni networks and supporting our global community in self-organised activity. You will have the opportunity to shape a critical part of the University's engagement with its largest and most globally diverse stakeholder group.

The nature of the role means that there will be a requirement for occasional weekend and evening working.
Learn more about the Advancement team what we do, and what it's like to work with us here.
Please note that this post may be suitable for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa route but first-time applicants might need to qualify for salary concessions. For more information please visit: www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa
For research and academic posts, we will consider eligibility under the Global Talent visa. For more information please visit: https://www.gov.uk/global-talent
What we offer in return:
o 26 days holiday plus 16 Bank Holidays/days that the University is closed by custom (including Christmas) - that's 42 days a year!
o Generous pension scheme plus life assurance
o Health and Wellbeing: Discounted staff membership options at The Edge, our state-of-the-art Campus gym, with a pool, sauna, climbing wall, cycle circuit, and sports halls.
o Personal Development: Access to courses run by our Organisational Development & Professional Learning team, and self-development courses including languages, Creative Writing, Wellbeing Therapies and much more.
o Access to on-site childcare, shopping discounts and travel schemes are also available.
And much more!