Location & Workstyle
London newsroom, Hybrid – 1 day WFH.
About the Role
The Observer delivers a broad mix of live experiences across the year, including editorial newsroom events, forums, and a myriad of commercial events. We’re looking for an Events Programmer to lead the development of the content, conversations and audience experience across our live events portfolio. Working in close partnership with the Live Events Producer, this role will help shape the ideas behind our events and ensure they reflect the quality, curiosity and authority of Observer journalism.
What You’ll Do
- Lead the programming of live events, from initial concept development, speaker briefing and management, through to post‑event review
- Develop themes, topics and formats for editorial events, forums, commercial partnerships and reader experiences
- Research, identify and secure high‑quality speakers, moderators and contributors for commercial and editorial events
- Build strong relationships with Observer journalists and editors to translate newsroom priorities into live conversations
- Work in close partnership with the Live Events Producer to ensure programming and production plans align
- Shape event agendas, session flow and audience experience to ensure engaging and well‑paced events
- Ensure events support Observer subscriptions growth and retention through compelling audience‑first programming
- Act as a key contact for speakers and contributors, managing outreach, briefing and content preparation
- Collaborate with commercial teams to develop content‑led partnership opportunities where appropriate
- Work with marketing teams to ensure event messaging clearly communicates the value of the programme
- Compile and circulate a forward‑planning digest of domestic and international events to inform editors and align newsroom priorities with the wider news agenda
- Support on‑site delivery, including speaker management, editorial quality control and programme execution
- Lead post‑event programming reviews, gathering feedback and identifying opportunities to strengthen future events
- Contribute to the long‑term development of The Observer’s live events strategy and editorial voice in live experiences
Who We’re Looking For
- Someone who understands what makes a great live conversation and is excited about bringing Observer journalism to life through events, comfortable working with senior editorial stakeholders, external contributors and commercial teams, and confident in shaping content that works for both audiences and partners
- Experience programming conferences or editorial events, working in media or content roles, or producing content‑led experiences and looking to take on more strategic responsibility
You’ll Likely Bring
- Experience programming conferences, talks, media events or thought‑leadership forums
- Strong editorial judgement and the ability to identify compelling topics and speakers
- Experience securing speakers or managing contributors
- Confidence in managing multiple projects in a fast‑moving environment
- Strong communication and stakeholder management skills
- A collaborative approach and the ability to work closely with production and commercial colleagues
- A strong interest in journalism, current affairs, arts, culture or ideas
- A practical, solutions‑focused mindset
Ideal Experience
- Experience programming content‑led events in media, publishing, cultural or commercial environments
- Experience working closely with editorial teams or journalists
- Experience developing event formats and audience experiences
- Understanding of how live events can support audience growth and reader revenue
- Experience working on both editorial and commercially supported events
- Strong professional networks across media, culture, politics, business or the creative industries
Why Join Us
- This is an opportunity to play a central role in shaping The Observer’s live events as we build a distinctive programme of editorial and commercial experiences
- Working closely with the Live Events Producer, you’ll help define the conversations we bring to live audiences and play a key role in building a live events portfolio that supports Observer journalism and future growth
- You’ll be part of a collaborative, supportive team and will have the chance to shape meaningful live experiences while developing your career at the intersection of journalism and events
Salary & Benefits
- 30 days holiday + bank holidays
- Private healthcare
- Group income protection & life assurance
- Pension
- Cycle to Work scheme
- Interest‑free season ticket loan
- Free snacks and drinks in the newsroom
- Hybrid working (London newsroom + 1 day remote flexibility)
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