Head of Programming

SAVVY RECRUITMENT; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 59,000 - 72,000; Full time

Job summary

SAVVY RECRUITMENT seeks a Head of Programming - Events to lead the end-to-end content strategy for a flagship global sustainability event and a growing US events portfolio. You will own the agenda from concept to delivery, crafting multi-track programmes reflecting global priorities and delivering value to delegates, sponsors, and partners.

Collaborating with senior stakeholders across commercial, marketing, customer success, and operations, the role combines editorial excellence with commercial

Qualifications

• Significant experience leading content and programming for live events or similar environments.
• Strong editorial judgement and audience-focused storytelling.
• Proven ability to manage senior stakeholders and deliver across teams.

Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver content strategy across high-profile events and growing US events.
• Own end-to-end programme development and production, with clear timelines.
• Research markets and trends to identify relevant topics and opportunities.
• Create audience-led programmes that translate into live experiences.
• Secure and manage senior-level speakers and relationships with leaders.
• Collaborate with commercial teams to maximise revenue while maintaining quality.
• Develop sponsor-led content opportunities with measurable value.
• Work with marketing to craft campaign messaging and promos.
• Monitor performance and feedback to drive continuous improvement.
• Manage content planning, production schedules and team priorities.
• Collaborate with Event Director and cross-functional teams for seamless delivery.
• Lead and develop team members with clear direction and accountability.

Skills

Content Leadership

Editorial Judgement

Stakeholder Management

Project Management

Team Leadership

Growth Mindset

Job description

Location: Hybrid (2 days in) Central London

Salary: Up to £65,000k DOE

About the Role

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Head of Programming - Events to lead the end-to-end content strategy and production for a flagship global sustainability event, alongside a growing portfolio of events in the US.

You will own the event agenda from initial concept through to delivery, developing market-leading, multi-track programmes that reflect emerging global priorities, anticipate audience needs and deliver meaningful value for delegates, sponsors and partners.

Working closely with senior stakeholders across commercial, marketing, customer success and operations, you will combine editorial excellence with commercial thinking to deliver exceptional thought leadership and support ambitious event growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver the content strategy across a portfolio of high-profile events, including a flagship global sustainability event and growing US events.
• Own the end-to-end programme development and production cycle, ensuring timelines, priorities and deliverables remain on track.
• Research markets, industries and emerging trends to identify relevant topics, challenges and opportunities.
• Develop compelling, innovative and audience-led event programmes that translate effectively into live experiences.
• Identify, approach and secure high-calibre speakers, building strong and lasting relationships with senior industry leaders and influential stakeholders.
• Work closely with commercial teams to identify and maximise revenue opportunities while maintaining the quality and integrity of the event content.
• Develop sponsor-led content opportunities that provide measurable value to partners while maintaining editorial standards.
• Collaborate with marketing teams to create compelling campaign messaging, programme content and promotional materials that attract the target audience.
• Monitor event performance, audience feedback and relevant data to continuously improve programme quality and identify opportunities for growth.
• Manage content planning, production schedules and team priorities across multiple events.
• Work closely with the Event Director and wider cross-functional teams to ensure seamless delivery and an exceptional delegate experience.
• Lead and develop team members, providing clear direction, support and accountability.

Experience & Skills

• Significant experience leading content and programming for live events, conferences, brand experiences or immersive environments.
• Proven experience developing and delivering complex, high-profile event programmes.
• Strong commercial mindset, with a track record of contributing to revenue growth and achieving commercial objectives.
• Excellent editorial judgement and a genuine passion for content, storytelling and audience experience.
• Experience securing and managing senior-level speakers and stakeholders.
• Confidence influencing senior leaders across business, government, academia and international organisations.
• Strong stakeholder management and communication skills, with the ability to build trusted relationships across multiple teams.
• Experience working closely with sales and commercial teams to develop valuable sponsorship and partnership opportunities.
• Strong organisational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver at pace.
• Line management and team leadership experience.
• Comfortable working autonomously, taking ownership and being accountable for outcomes.
• Creative, commercially minded and solutions-focused, with a strong growth mindset.