About the position
Postion Summary:
Reporting to the Manager: Media & Internal Communications Manager. The Corporate Events Specialist position is responsible for profiling the NRF brand image through the successful management of varied corporate events, exhibitions, conferences and stakeholder engagement opportunities to enable the achievement of the NRF strategy and business goals.
Key Responsibilities:
- Oversees the development of, and facilitates the approval an Events Management Guideline/Strategy (including events grading protocol)Develops an Event Management Guideline and Annual Events Calendar
- Trains, supervises, and works with event staff to solicit and book banquet and catering functions
- Manages the planning, merchandising and execution of the functions from start to finish according to requirements, target audience and event objectives
- Leads the event team to build long-term, value-based customer relationships that enable achievement of business objectives
- Assumes the role of a project manager who understands marketing and promotion techniques
- Conducts market research, identifies event opportunities and generates interest
- Ensures events are successful and cost-effective, paying attention to budget and time constraints
- Based on the events calendar, prepares budget proposals and projections and ensures adherence to the relevant finance policiesOversees the procurement proposal and oversees the establishment of a database of service providers
- Leads the process of sourcing and negotiations with vendors and supplies
- Supervises and approves development and implementation of SLAs between the NRF and appointed service providers
- Oversees event planning, design and production while managing all project delivery elements within time limits
- Supervises and manages all aspects of event operations including specifying staffing requirements, service providers and coordinating their activities
- Proposes innovative ideas both for events and event promotion to enhance the quality of the event
- Recruits and manages staff and service providers (MC, DJs, caterers, sound technicians, waiters etc), working on events – these might work on a short-term basis during busy periods or be full-time members of staff
- Leads promotional activities for the event and liaises with the Corporate Communications Division to promote events and liaise with clients
- Conducts market research, gathers information, and negotiates contracts prior to closing any deals
- Liaises with clients to identify their needs and to ensure customer satisfaction
- Ensures compliance with insurance, legal, health and safety obligations
- Manages the conceptualisation and approval of the branded Gifts policy/ Guideline
- Approves the design and marketing of the corporate gift catalogue
- Facilitates approval of an annual Corporate Gifts/Marketing Collateral budgetEnsures the necessary security and accounting measures (including regular stocktaking) are in place to protect stock from theft and abuse
- Ensures successful closing of events and provides reports to determine whether objectives were met
Minimum Qualification:
- Bachelors Degree / Advanced Diploma / NQF 7
Minimum Experience:
- Degree in Public Relations/Communications/Hospitality Management or related field
Experience:
- At least 5-8 years experience handling events and protocol
Knowledge:
- Understanding of public, research and/or academic sectors will be an added advantage
- Demonstrated ability to effectively interact with people of diverse socioeconomic, cultural, disability, and ethnic backgrounds
- Service-oriented style with professional presentation skills
- Willingness to travel and work long hours, sometimes over weekends and/or public holidays
The NRF website provides more details on the initiatives and activities Applicants should submit a comprehensive CV by registering and apply online through the NRF Recruitment and Selection Portal. Applications should be accompanied by a letter of motivation indicating the applicant·s suitability for the position. The names and contact details of at least three referees should be provided.
Desired Skills:
- Skilled in applied field of position
- Knowledge to be relevant
- Responsible in performing duties
About The Employer:
The National Research Foundation (NRF) supports and promotes research and human capital development through funding, the provision of National Research Facilities and science outreach platforms and programmes to the broader community in all fields of science and technology, including natural sciences, engineering, social sciences and humanities. The NRF Corporate Office based in Pretoria seeks to appoint a suitably qualified and experienced individual for the position of Corporate Events Specialist.
