Events Manager – Make UK Defence
Home based with travel - Midlands
Permanent, Full time
Competitive salaries and excellent benefits including up to one day's paid leave each year to undertake volunteering opportunities
Make UK Defence is a growing trade association representing the UK’s defence manufacturing sector. We work with government, industry leaders, and supply chain organisations to strengthen the UK’s defence capability and support business growth across the sector.
We’re seeking an Events Manager to take support on a high-profile and varied events portfolio that sits at the heart of our member engagement and industry influence.
The Role
This is a fast-paced, hands-on role responsible for delivering a diverse programme of events that support our strategic objectives and bring our network together.
You’ll lead on the end-to-end delivery of conferences, exhibitions, networking events, webinars and “Meet the Buyer” programmes ensuring every event is professional, engaging and delivers real value to our members and partners.
From major exhibitions like DSEI to smaller, targeted networking sessions, you’ll be central to creating impactful experiences that reflect the strength of the UK defence sector.
Key Responsibilities
Event Planning & Delivery
* Manage the full lifecycle of events (in-person, hybrid and virtual), from concept through to delivery
* Develop programmes, schedules and logistics plans aligned to organisational goals
* Oversee venues, suppliers, AV, catering, branding and event operations
* Ensure seamless on-the-day delivery and high-quality delegate experience
* Coordinate Make UK Defence’s presence at major exhibitions
* Support member companies within shared pavilion spaces
* Manage logistics, exhibitor liaison and post-event reporting
Stakeholder Engagement
* Build strong relationships with internal teams, members, sponsors and suppliers
* Collaborate closely with colleagues to maximise engagement and attendance
* Support the development of networking opportunities tailored to member needs
Marketing & Communications
* Work with marketing teams to promote events across multiple channels
* Manage registrations and delegate communications
* Gather feedback and produce post-event insights and reports
Financial Management
* Develop and monitor event budgets, ensuring all activities are delivered within agreed cost parameters.
* Prepare financial reports, reconcile expenses, and track sponsorship income.
About You
You’ll be an organised and proactive events professional who thrives on delivering high-quality experiences in a dynamic environment.
Essential
* Proven experience managing events from concept to completion
* Strong project management skills with the ability to juggle multiple priorities
* Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
* Experience managing budgets and working with external suppliers
* A hands‑on, collaborative approach with the ability to work independently
Desirable
* Experience within a membership organisation, trade body, or defence/manufacturing environment
* Exposure to large-scale exhibitions or trade shows
* Familiarity with CRM systems and event platforms
Personal Attributes
* Professional, confident and approachable
* Calm under pressure with a solution-focused mindset
* Highly organised with strong attention to detail
* Flexible and willing to travel or support events outside standard hours when required
Why Join Make UK Defence?
This is an opportunity to play a key role in connecting and supporting one of the UK’s most important industrial sectors. You’ll work closely with industry leaders, contribute to high-profile events, and be part of a collaborative and purpose-driven team.
Make UK staff enjoy a good benefits package and values a diverse workforce and welcomes applications from all sections of the community. Benefits to include, but not limited to: no bank holiday/weekend work, flexible hours, health cover, matched pension contributions up to 8%, and life assurance.
We are committed to supporting the Armed Forces Community
We are committed to supporting the Armed Forces Community and we recognise the contribution that Service personnel, both regular and reservist, veterans and military families make to our organisation and have pledged to support this by signing up to the Armed Forces Covenant.
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