Senior Public Engagement Officer - Events

ROYAL SOCIETY; London; On-site; GBP 45,000; Full time

Job description

The Royal Society is a self-governing Fellowship of distinguished scientists drawn from all areas of science, technology, engineering, mathematics and medicine. The Society’s fundamental purpose is to recognise, promote and support excellence in science and to encourage the development and use of science for the benefit of humanity. The Society has played a part in some of the most fundamental, significant and life-changing discoveries in scientific history and Royal Society scientists continue to make outstanding contributions to science across the wide breadth of research areas.

Public engagement is one of the Royal Society’s strategic priorities. Our wish is to engage with all to make scientific knowledge and the scientific approach part of the fabric of society. This includes listening to the views of the public, involving the public in our work and inspiring the public to explore new discoveries, the rich history of science and the scientists that shape our world.

Position Overview

The Senior Public Engagement Officer – Events will work with the Public Engagement Manager and other members of the Public Engagement team to manage and develop the Society’s public engagement programme in line with the Public Engagement strategy, as defined and approved by the Public Engagement Committee.

Key Responsibilities

1. Responsible for the successful delivery of the Society’s flagship event within the public engagement programme, the Summer Science Exhibition.
2. Lead the planning, delivery, and evaluation of this major annual event, ensuring its success both on-site and digitally.
3. Develop additional events that complement the Exhibition and explore new ways to broaden audience engagement.
4. Provide day-to-day budget management.
5. Line manage two Public Engagement Officer roles which support programmes across the entire PE team.
6. Oversee the Events strand, including the Summer Science Exhibits On Tour programme and other events, such as Prize Lectures, cultural events, and Lates/History of Science.
7. Contribute to other projects and events as required, to develop the Section’s activities as a whole.
8. Share best practice, ideas, and learnings for the continued development of the public engagement programme and team.

The post holder will be subject to Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks.

Please note that we are unable to offer sponsorship for this role.

Reports to: Public Engagement Manager

Line manages: Public Engagement Officer x 2

Pay band: D, £45,000 per annum

Location: Carlton House Terrace, London

Contract: Permanent

Hours: Full time, 35 hours per week (some travel, mainly within the UK, some evening and weekend work required)

Closing date for applications: Midnight 21 April 2025.

Interviews will be held: 13 May 2025.