Event Planner jobs in United Kingdom

Working hours: Full time – 35 hours a week (Hours may vary during onsite delivery, including occasional early mornings, evenings, and weekends).

Duration: Permanent, with 3‑month probationary period

Location: London, UK

Salary Range: £39,000 – £44,000

Anticipated Start Date: 17 March 2026

• Pension
• Private medical insurance
• Travel insurance
• 24 days annual leave (in addition to public holidays)

The International Water Association (IWA) is seeking a capable and experienced Event Coordinator to support the professional delivery of its global conference portfolio. IWA has established a dedicated event delivery entity, IWA Conferences Limited, to strengthen the quality, consistency, and operational standards of its events worldwide.

The role is responsible for the full operational delivery of IWA conferences, ensuring that all logistical, technical, and supplier elements are planned and executed to a high standard, on time and within budget. The post works under the direction of the Conference Producer and focuses solely on the operational aspects of event delivery. It does not include responsibility for programme design, delegate registration, sponsorship sales, or marketing activities.

• Passionate about delivering exceptional events with a strong sense of purpose.
• Motivated by quality, impact, and professionalism.
• Organised and adaptable, able to manage multiple events and priorities with composure.

• Lead operational planning for all IWA conferences and events.
• Develop delivery plans, run sheets, floorplans, schedules, and onsite procedures.
• Manage all venue arrangements including room allocations, technical requirements, catering, access, and safety.
• Ensure all events meet required standards in health & safety, insurance, safeguarding (where applicable), and contractual compliance.
• Oversee onsite setup, delivery, and breakdown.
• International travel will be required several times per year.

• Source, negotiate, and manage suppliers including venues, AV/technical contractors, caterers, staging companies, decorators, and logistics partners.
• Ensure value for money, delivery quality, and adherence to agreed timelines.
• Monitor supplier performance and maintain clear documentation.

• Act as the operational lead during live events.
• Coordinate suppliers, onsite staff, volunteers, and support teams.
• Resolve operational issues quickly and maintain a professional delegate environment.

• Manage operational budgets and track expenditure.
• Prepare post-event operational reports and lessons learned.
• Support continuous improvement of delivery processes and supplier frameworks.

• Minimum 3 years’ experience in event operations and logistics, ideally with international or multi‑day events.
• Strong organisational and scheduling skills with close attention to detail.
• Experience managing suppliers, contracts, and operational budgets.
• Ability to interpret technical/AV specifications.
• Confident working on site and handling time‑critical challenges.
• Clear and precise communication skills.
• Competence in standard office software and event‑related systems.
• Experience working in multicultural or international environments.

• Reliable, steady under pressure, and able to manage multiple workstreams.
• Practical, methodical, and focused on delivery.
• Able to maintain professional standards in demanding environments.
• Comfortable working collaboratively across teams and functions.

At IWA, your work will make a global impact. You’ll join a purpose‑led organisation recognised as a leader in sustainable water solutions, with a worldwide network of members and partners. In return for your dedication and skills, we offer :

• A competitive salary and benefits package.
• A collaborative and supportive work culture.
• Opportunities to travel and connect with leading professionals around the world.
• The chance to grow with a high‑profile, globally visible portfolio of events.

IWA currently operates a hybrid working arrangement in which employees may work from home on Mondays and Fridays and are expected to attend the office on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. This arrangement is not contractual and may be adjusted in line with organisational needs.

IWA is the global network for water professionals, uniting scientists, engineers, utility leaders, and innovators from more than 140 countries. Our mission is to shape the future of water management through collaboration, innovation, and knowledge sharing. From publishing cutting‑edge research to hosting global congresses and leading cross‑sector initiatives, IWA is at the forefront of solving the world’s water challenges – from climate resilience and water reuse to inclusive sanitation and sustainable cities.

IWA is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in everything we do.

Applicants must have the legal right to work in the United Kingdom; IWA is unable to sponsor visas for this role.

Opening Date for Applications: 11 December 2025

Closing Date for Applications: 16 January 2026

Interviews: 27‑29 January 2026

Start Date: 17 March 2026

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, so applicants may be approached prior to the deadline.

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