Assistant Event Manager(UK Visa Sponsorship)

Job Description

The Opportunity

We are looking for an experienced and people-focused events professional to join our Communications, Engagement and Advancement (CEA) Division. As Assistant Event Manager (Civic Engagement), you will play a key role in delivering high-quality events that strengthen the University of Sussex’s relationships with alumni, civic partners, and communities in the UK and internationally.

Working within a collaborative team of events specialists, you will take ownership of a defined portfolio of global and civic engagement events, while also contributing to the planning and delivery of large-scale, high-profile institutional occasions such as graduations, alumni reunions, and overseas receptions.

This role also includes direct line management responsibility for an Events Coordinator (Grade 4), supporting their development and ensuring excellent operational delivery across the programme.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, plan and deliver a portfolio of global and civic engagement events that align with institutional priorities and audience needs.
• Lead on end-to-end event management, including planning, logistics, budgeting, risk management, delivery, and post-event evaluation.
• Contribute to major University events and flagship projects, including UK and international graduations, alumni reunions, and overseas receptions.
• Monitor progress against agreed objectives, timelines, and budgets, adapting plans where required.
• Build and maintain effective working relationships with internal stakeholders, external partners, and suppliers.
• Line manage an Events Coordinator, providing clear direction, regular feedback, and development support.
• Ensure events are delivered in line with University policies, health and safety requirements, and best practice in accessibility and inclusion.

About You

You will be a confident and organised events professional with a strong track record of delivering complex events in a fast-paced environment. You are comfortable managing multiple priorities at once and remain calm, solution-focused, and professional under pressure.

You will bring:

• At least five years’ professional experience in event management.
• Proven ability to manage concurrent projects with competing deadlines.
• Strong communication skills, with the confidence to engage a wide range of stakeholders.
• Experience of supporting or managing colleagues, with a collaborative and supportive management style.
• Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail, alongside the flexibility to respond to changing requirements.

About the Division

The Communications, Engagement and Advancement (CEA) Division plays a central role in supporting the University of Sussex’s strategic growth. Working closely with academic schools and partners in the UK and overseas, the division helps attract outstanding students, build lifelong relationships with alumni and supporters, and enable philanthropic investment that supports world-leading research.

Our work is shaped by collaboration, evidence-based decision-making, and a shared commitment to positive social impact.

Why Join the University of Sussex?

Our 150-acre campus sits at the edge of the South Downs National Park, offering a unique working environment that combines natural beauty with excellent transport links. Falmer train station is just a five-minute walk from campus, and regular bus services, cycling routes, and a cycle-to-work scheme make commuting straightforward.

As a research-led, internationally recognised university, Sussex is proud of its diverse and inclusive community. Our success is built on the expertise, creativity, and commitment of our staff, and we are dedicated to providing a supportive working environment with a strong benefits and rewards package.

Additional Information

This role must be undertaken in the United Kingdom.

The post may be eligible for Skilled Worker sponsorship under SOC code 3557 (Events managers and organisers), subject to UK Visas and Immigration requirements.

Informal enquiries are welcome and can be directed to Faye Brown.

The University of Sussex is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion, and encourages applications from candidates of all backgrounds.