Head of Events

The Observer, London

Hybrid - We work four days in the office and one day a week can be worked remotely

The Observer’s promise is in the name. The Observer bears witness; the best of journalism being curious minds at work. It loves the arts and ideas, both for their own sake and because they can change lives. It’s proudly progressive, but has no party allegiance. It’s open to different arguments, and its editorial independence is non-negotiable. We are building a new Observer across print, audio and digital. We’re here to build journalism that lasts, and a commercial model to ensure that it thrives.

About the role

The Head of Events will lead the end-to-end delivery and programming of The Observer’s live events. This is a highly collaborative, hands-on role requiring someone who can move seamlessly from high-level programming and stakeholder collaboration to rigorous execution.

You will be responsible for running and programming a diverse portfolio encompassing the Observer Business roundtable, editorial newsroom events and large-scale commercial forums.

This role requires a blend of sharp operational drive (you aren't afraid to roll your sleeves up and put the chairs out), creative capability and commerciality. You will have the credibility to lead relationships with key editors at the paper for programming decisions, and the ability to work seamlessly with commercial partners.

As events are often scheduled outside standard office hours, flexibility to work evenings and early mornings will be required.

Key responsibilities

Operations & Delivery

• End-to-End Execution: Oversee the operational and logistical delivery of all Observer events, managing everything from initial venue setup (including physical staging and room layout) to post-event breakdown.

• Financial & Supplier Management: Manage event budgets, negotiate with and manage external suppliers, venues, production partners, contractors, and freelancers.

• On-Site Leadership: Lead on-site event delivery, including speaker management, logistics troubleshooting, and overall quality control.

Programming & Content

• Idea Generation & Creative Direction: Play a proactive role in generating ideas for future events that reflect the curiosity, authority, and arts-focus of The Observer.

• Newsroom Collaboration: Build strong relationships and lead conversations with key Observer editors and journalists to translate newsroom priorities into compelling live agendas.

• Talent Management: Act as the primary contact for event talent: research, secure, and brief high-quality speakers, moderators, and cultural contributors.

• Portfolio Balance: Create, format, and program events tailored across three distinct streams: editorial newsroom events, customer engagement events, and commercial partner experiences.

• Revenue & Growth: Work with marketing, subscription, and commercial teams to grow event attendance, drive sponsorship/ticketing revenue, and convert event audiences into loyal subscribers.

Requirements

• Proven Experience: Significant experience leading, programming, and operationally delivering live events

• Operational Drive: A practical and deeply "hands-on" mindset with a willingness to undertake all physical and logistical aspects of event production.

• Programming Capability: Strong editorial judgment with experience shaping event formats, sourcing talent, and building engaging live agendas.

• Stakeholder Management: Proven ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues across the Newsroom, the Business and with commercial partners.

• Cultural Alignment: A passion for journalism, current affairs, public debate, and a demonstrable interest in the arts and ideas.

• Commercial Acumen: Excellent budgeting skills with a track record of supporting commercially successful event models.

Benefits

• 30 days annual leave plus bank holidays

• Private Healthcare

• Group Income Protection

• Group Life Assurance

• Pension

• Cycle to work scheme

• Interest-free season ticket loans

• Free snacks and drinks in the newsroom

Our Process

We aim to run our interview process at pace and with clarity at every stage, recognising how challenging it can be to balance alongside other commitments or interviews. The number of stages will vary depending on the nature and level of the role, but we see this as a two-way process and hope you’ll enjoy the opportunity to meet a range of potential future colleagues.