Event Director UKI - Autonomous Vehicle Technology Expo

Closerstill Media; Dorking; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading B2B events company in Dorking is seeking a results-oriented Event Leader to manage and inspire the sales team. The ideal candidate will have a strong track record in sales and event management, with the ability to exceed targets and collaborate across departments. Join us to create impactful events in the sustainable maritime sector.

Qualifications

• Proven track record in sales, commercial growth, and brand management.
• Experience managing and motivating teams.
• Ability to deliver business and brand strategies.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the sales team.
• Build and maintain positive professional relationships.
• Oversee credit control and financial performance.

Skills

Leadership skills

Sales performance

Relationship building

Financial management

Stakeholder management

Job description

WHO WE ARE:

At CloserStill, we strive to deliver the best. We’re on a mission to be the most dynamic B2B events and communities business in every market we serve, bringing people together to learn, connect and grow.

Operating across five regions, we power over 200 market-leading events, publications and brands across Business Technologies, Healthcare, Learning, HR & Education, and Future Transport & Infrastructure.

But what truly sets us apart is our people. Our teams are diverse, driven, and united by a shared commitment to excellence. Rooted in our core values of ownership, empathy, teamwork, integrity, and determination, we empower every employee to grow, shape their own path and make a meaningful impact.

Joining CloserStill means being part of something bigger - not just building events, but creating opportunities, connections, and lasting value for the communities we serve.

ABOUT THE SHOW:

Electric & Hybrid Marine Expo is the global hub for sustainable maritime technologies, bringing together over 150 leading solution providers driving the future of maritime decarbonisation and efficiency. The show showcases groundbreaking developments across electric and hybrid propulsion, alternative fuels, ship-to-shore power and charging infrastructure, fuel cells, automation and control systems, and advanced vessel design.

It also highlights innovations in alternative power sources including wind, solar, tidal, foiling, air lubrication, carbon capture and advanced propeller technologies. With an increasing focus on autonomous technologies, the event offers an unrivalled platform for professionals shaping the next generation of maritime solutions.

WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR:

We are seeking a commercially driven, results-oriented leader with strong experience in sales, event management, and team leadership. This role requires someone who can deliver exceptional show performance, inspire and manage a sales team, and work collaboratively across multiple departments to ensure smooth and profitable events.

THE ROLE:

• Sales Leadership: Lead and manage the sales team, exceed team and personal sales targets, develop campaign strategies, manage databases, and oversee the rebook process.
• Relationships: Build and maintain positive professional relationships with key stakeholders, associations, and partners.
• Brand Management: Develop strategies to grow and sustain events, ensure alignment with wider company objectives, and monitor competitor activity.
• Financial Management: Meet and exceed profit targets, oversee credit control, provide monthly reports, and produce annual business plans.
• General Management: Set clear goals, manage performance, recruit and develop staff, motivate and coach the team, and manage interdepartmental relationships.
• Operations: Work with operations to deliver efficient and cost-effective event plans.
• Marketing: Collaborate with marketing to develop exhibitor and visitor campaigns, manage industry partnerships, and engage in press/media activity.

ABOUT YOU:

You will be an experienced event leader with a proven track record in sales, commercial growth, and brand management. You’ll thrive in a fast-paced environment, balancing strategic thinking with hands-on execution.

Key Skills and Attributes:

• Strong leadership skills with experience managing and motivating teams.
• Proven success in hitting and exceeding sales targets.
• Commercially focused with the ability to identify and develop new revenue streams.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to produce and deliver business and brand strategies.
• Financially literate with experience managing budgets and reporting on performance.
• Collaborative approach, able to work effectively across marketing, operations, and production teams.
• Comfortable with public speaking, media engagement, and representing the brand at industry events.

We do not offer sponsorship for this role.

CloserStill Media reserves the right to request a DBS or credit check should the role require it.

DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION:

CloserStill Media embraces diversity in all its forms and is committed to continuing to develop a diverse and inclusive environment that encourages collaboration and innovation.

We are an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment based on merit without attention to age, ethnicity, religion or beliefs, sexual orientation, gender identity, family or parental status or disability status.

We are committed to ensuring an inclusive and accessible recruitment process. If you require any reasonable adjustments at any stage, don't hesitate to get in touch with our HR team.