Assistant Events Manager

Role Overview

This 12-month fixed term contract position as Assistant Events Manager at Selfridges involves designing and delivering a distinctive suite of premier events, experiences, and customer engagement initiatives. The incumbent will manage multiple concurrent and intricate projects while collaborating with stakeholders across departments. Communication skills are vital to keep all teams aligned and engaged, maintaining Selfridges’ reputation as a foremost leader in immersive customer experiences.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in crafting and implementing strategic communications, events, and experiential programs across all product categories available at the Trafford Store.
• Partner with marketing and retail stakeholders to design and execute a comprehensive, strategy-driven calendar of events and experiences.
• Serve as the primary liaison for the Manchester Trafford Store, promoting important initiatives using creative and engaging experiences to boost visitor numbers.
• Work alongside the Assistant Events Manager – Personal Shopping to curate experiences spanning various levels of Selfridges Unlocked, emphasizing Levels 1 to 3.
• Lead project management efforts to produce and deliver events of exceptional quality.
• Coordinate with wider communications teams including Customer Marketing, Performance Marketing, CRM, Social, and Digital to effectively market events and enhance attendance.
• Participate actively in major steering committees with senior stakeholders, ensuring consistent communication among Customer, Communications, Creative, Buying, Finance, Legal, and Retail teams.
• Engage in workshops and project meetings to advocate for project objectives and collaborate with colleagues.
• Manage event budgets, monitor finances, raise purchase orders, and oversee supplier relationships.
• Liaise with internal teams such as Graphics, Multimedia Creative, 3D Creative, Visual Merchandising, and Retail Operations to guarantee smooth project delivery.
• Utilize leadership capabilities to develop innovative event proposals aligned with Selfridges’ vision and market leadership ambitions.
• Provide regular updates and reports to Senior Leadership teams, incorporating feedback as necessary.
• Prepare and present detailed status and KPI project reports for executive audiences.
• Maintain experience and relationships with UHNW individuals and within the luxury retail, fashion, and beauty event sectors.
• Uphold the Selfridges brand standards both for the Manchester Trafford Store and the overall brand.
• Employ creativity and a passion for arts and culture in all programming efforts.

Candidate Profile

• Demonstrated expertise in high-level event production and managing multiple simultaneous projects.
• Strong project management skills with a history of successful partnerships coordination.
• Excellent networking abilities and financial understanding, including P&L responsibility for costs and revenue.
• Outstanding communication, presentation, and pitching abilities.
• Thorough research skills coupled with creative vision and dedication to exceptional program quality.
• Advanced negotiation and organizational skills.
• Ability to work calmly and effectively under pressure and tight deadlines.

Experience & Skills Required

• Proven event production and project management experience, ideally within luxury goods, fashion, or beauty sectors.
• An established external network with creative event service providers.
• Experience managing multi-disciplinary partnerships.
• Proficiency in planning and project management tools including Excel and PowerPoint.
• A strategic mindset with effective prioritization and the capacity to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
• A proactive, self-starting approach with excellent interpersonal skills to build relationships across different functions.
• Ability to communicate clearly, persuasively, and concisely at all levels.
• Strong problem-solving skills and adaptability, providing innovative solutions when necessary.
• Interest and engagement with fashion, arts, and cultural sectors.