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The Events and Protocol Section is the primary focal point for all matters involving planning, coordination and delivery of events and protocol services for Ministerial and other pan-Commonwealth meetings, hosted overseas by member countries, convened at the Secretariat headquarters in London or at other external venues.

It is the central point of contact for Secretariat Divisions and host governments on all operational and logistical matters relating to events and protocol services for Commonwealth meetings.

The Events and Protocol Manager assists the Head, Events and Protocol in planning and implementing all aspects of ministerial meetings and other events organised by the Secretariat and helps to ensure that the Section operates efficiently. The post holder has lead responsibility for the organisation of some events. The role requires extensive overseas travel often for long periods or at short notice.

The Events and Protocol Manager is expected, among other responsibilities, to assist the Head, Events and Protocol in the effective operation of the Section and deputise as required; undertake event planning missions overseas individually or as part of team and prepare a written assessment of the host country’s conference preparations; and assist the Head, Events and Protocol to develop policies, strategies, guidelines and procedures relating to event management and to implement these across the organisation.

The successful candidate will have responsibility for event delivery, developing, implementing and reviewing event practices and procedures, and overseeing in-house events and meetings, amongst other duties.

To be considered, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• A university degree in social sciences, communications, event management or related field, or relevant professional qualification. Without these qualifications your application may be considered provided you have a suitable combination of education and significant experience related to the role;
• At least five years’ experience in international conference organisation with at least two years sole or overall responsibility in large-scale international conference management and planning;
• Extensive experience in government, business and/or NGO sectors with a focus on international development;
• Proven track record of working collaboratively with major global partners, such as, national governments, intergovernmental organisations, NGOs
• Knowledge of global best practices and approaches to international conference management
• Good understanding of global political matters and ability to act at all times with diplomacy and tact
• Proven ability to engage with stakeholders and delegates of the highest-level
• Proven ability to work cohesively as part of an events team, with experience supervising junior staff
• Ability to travel extensively often at short notice

Please refer to the Job Description for a detailed list of the responsibilities and experience required for this position.

The Commonwealth is a voluntary association of 56 member governments and provides guidance on policy making, technical assistance and advisory services to Commonwealth member countries. We support governments to help achieve sustainable, inclusive and equitable development.

To join us, you must be a citizen of a Commonwealth country.

Please apply by submitting a CV and cover letter. Covering letters should be structured to address the key criteria required in the person specification, giving clear examples.