Job Description

PA, Events & Programmes Coordinator

Reports to: Head of Corporate Services
Location: London (with some remote working)
Contract: Permanent, Full-time

(35 hours per week, Monday-Friday)

Core Hours: 08:30-09:30 to 16:30-17:30
Salary: 30,000-33,000 per annum

About Us

The British Ports Association (BPA) is the national trade association for UK ports, representing a diverse membership across the maritime sector. We champion and support the industry through policy, advocacy, and events that bring our community together.

We are now seeking a PA, Events & Programmes Coordinator to join our team. This is a unique opportunity to combine excellent organisational skills with creativity, playing a central role in delivering our flagship events and supporting the Chief Executive on key projects.

The Role

The PA, Events, & Programmes Coordinator will be responsible for delivering the BPA's busy events programme, communications outputs, and supporting special projects. Reporting to the Head of Corporate Services, the post holder will work closely with the Chief Executive, BPA colleagues, members, and external partners.

This is a varied role requiring excellent organisational, communication, and creative skills, with the opportunity to lead on high-profile industry events and initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

Event Management

Plan, manage and deliver BPA's annual events calendar, including:

Annual Lunch & AGM BPA Annual Conference (with host port and external event partner) BPA Council Chairs' Dinner & Scottish Ports Group Dinner Parliamentary receptions in London, Cardiff, and Edinburgh London International Shipping Week (LISW) activities Summer Drinks Reception Online webinars and briefings Promote events using email, website, and social media channels. Maintain the annual event calendar and cost tracker. Develop ideas for new and engaging member events. Lead on delivery of BPA social events.
Personal Assistant

Provide secretarial support for the Chief Executive and Director of Policy & External Affairs as required. Manage and deliver the BPA's weekly member email circular, in collaboration with relevant colleagues. Respond to verbal and written enquiries, and, where required forward the query to the appropriate staff member. Produce letters, documents, presentations and spreadsheets using relevant MS Office software . Organise business travel and accommodation. Manage BPA general enquiries from phone and email. Basic support with the BPA website & electronic contact lists. Undertake other activities as requested.
Programmes, Committees & Special Projects

Manage the delivery of BPA working groups, maintaining an up-to-date annual programme of meetings, in collaboration with relevant colleagues. Support the Chief Executive and colleagues in delivering special projects. Lead the BPA's careers programme, working with partners including Maritime UK, Port Skills & Safety, and Generation Logistics. Ensure the BPA Careers Hub is regularly updated and accessible to members and stakeholders and occasionally attend events. Work with colleagues to jointly manage the BPA's online and social media presence.
Event Budget Control, Calendar & Administration

Track monthly and quarterly event expenditure against agreed budgets. Ensure costs are allocated correctly in accounts. Provide quarterly reports on events and projects expenditure to inform financial planning and budget preparation.
About You

We're looking for someone who thrives in a dynamic environment and enjoys balancing multiple priorities. You'll bring:

1-2 years' experience in a similar role. Some event management experience, ideally within a membership or professional setting. Excellent organisational and administrative skills with strong attention to detail. Strong written and verbal communication skills, including experience managing digital platforms. A creative approach to engagement with fresh ideas for member activities. Confidence working with stakeholders at all levels, from senior leaders to external partners. A proactive, professional, and flexible approach.
Benefits & Additional information

Hybrid working arrangement (London office with scope for remote working) 25 days' annual leave plus public holidays Generous pension package: 10% employer contribution of annual salary to a pension of your choice 3% contribution to a National Employment Savings Trust (a workplace pension scheme), with the option to opt-out Professional development and training opportunities Supportive and collaborative team culture Access to industry events and networking opportunities The role will involve some travel within the UK Applicants must have the right to work in the UK
How to Apply

Please submit your CV and a covering letter outlining how you meet the person specification to jobs@britishports.org.uk

Closing Date: Friday 17 October Interview Date: Week commencing 27 October
For an informal discussion about the role please contact: Richard Ballantyne, Chief Executive Richard.Ballantyne@britishports.org.uk

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: 30,000.00-33,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Company pension Cycle to work scheme Transport links Work from home
Willingness to travel:

25% (required)
Work Location: Hybrid remote in London SE1 9EQ