Event Manager (Civic Engagement)UK Visa Sponsorship

Job Description

The Role at a Glance

The University of Sussex is seeking an experienced Event Manager to lead its Civic and Global Engagement events programme during a period of maternity cover. This role sits within a collaborative team of events professionals and plays a key part in delivering high-profile, strategically important events that strengthen Sussex’s relationship with its communities, alumni, and partners.

You will take ownership of a defined portfolio of civic and global events while also contributing to major institutional activities such as alumni reunions, international alumni receptions, graduation ceremonies in the UK and overseas, and large-scale flagship projects.

What You Will Be Responsible For

In this role, you will:

• Design, plan, and deliver a portfolio of civic and global engagement events aligned with institutional priorities
• Lead the end-to-end management of events, including budgeting, scheduling, logistics, risk management, and evaluation
• Support the delivery of complex, high-profile events such as overseas alumni receptions and graduation ceremonies
• Monitor progress and performance of events, ensuring objectives, timelines, and quality standards are met
• Line-manage and support an Events Coordinator (Grade 4), providing guidance and development
• Work closely with internal teams, senior stakeholders, and external partners to ensure smooth delivery
• Adapt plans quickly and calmly when priorities shift or unexpected challenges arise

About You

You are a skilled and confident events professional who thrives in a fast-paced, stakeholder-rich environment.

Essential experience and skills

• At least five years’ professional experience in event management
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously under tight deadlines
• Strong organisational and problem-solving skills
• Clear and effective communication with colleagues, managers, and senior stakeholders
• Experience managing your own workload while supporting others

Desirable attributes

• Experience leading civic, alumni, or public-facing events
• Line management or supervisory experience
• Familiarity with large-scale or international event delivery

About the Division

This role sits within the Communications, Engagement and Advancement (CEA) Division, which plays a vital role in shaping Sussex’s institutional growth and reputation.

CEA works in close partnership with academic schools and external partners in the UK and internationally to attract students, strengthen global alumni relationships, and support philanthropic activity that enables Sussex’s research and teaching to thrive.

Why Join the University of Sussex?

The University of Sussex is a globally recognised, research-intensive institution set within a stunning campus on the edge of the South Downs National Park. Staff benefit from excellent transport links, a supportive working culture, and a strong commitment to wellbeing, inclusion, and professional development.

The University operates in full alignment with UK employment and public-sector standards

Equality, Inclusion and Accessibility

The University of Sussex is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and encourage candidates to request reasonable adjustments at any stage of the recruitment process.

How to Apply

Closing date: 14 January 2026 (15:59 GMT)
Expected start date: March 2026