Job Title

Event Programs Manager - Cisco (Contract)Location: Feltham, Middlesex (Hybrid Working) Duration: 1 Year (with potential extensions) Randstad UK is seeking an experienced Event Programs Manager to join Cisco's dynamic Marketing team in the UK. This is a contract opportunity for a highly organised and proactive professional to contribute to Cisco's strategic marketing objectives by delivering industry-leading customer events.This role is ideal for an individual who excels at managing a diverse portfolio of events, from intimate gatherings to large-scale conferences, and possesses a strong focus on driving demand generation and measurable results.Key Responsibilities:The Event Programs Manager will be responsible for the end-to-end management and execution of various in-person and virtual events. Key duties include:Event Portfolio Management: Lead the planning, activation, and measurement of a range of events, including small to mid-size Cisco Engage Events (30-100 attendees, approx. 10-15 per quarter) and large-scale Cisco Connect Events (500-1000 attendees, 1-2 per year).Strategic Event Design: Craft engaging virtual and in-person event experiences that effectively communicate Cisco's narrative, drive brand awareness, and generate demand, ensuring alignment with Cisco's core marketing campaigns and business objectives.Project Leadership: Provide comprehensive program and project management for defined events, from initial concept through to delivery and post-event follow-up. Maintain and manage the Go-To-Marketing Event Calendar for the region.Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with internal Cisco teams (including Sales, Architecture, Product, and local Marketing teams) and external agencies to define event requirements, manage expectations, and ensure seamless execution.Platform Utilisation: Manage event operations using dedicated tools, specifically the Cvent Registration Platform, for registration, website management, and event processes.Marketing & Communications Oversight: Oversee all marketing aspects of events, including website presence, agenda development, invitation processes, email communications, promotion, and ensuring an exceptional customer experience.Performance & Reporting: Implement robust success metrics and reporting mechanisms for all events, with a strong emphasis on demand generation, lead management, and ROI analysis.Compliance & Budget Management: Ensure all event activities adhere to contractual and compliance policies (including privacy/GDPR and sustainability guidelines). Manage event budgets, including financial assistance processes (POs, partner funding).Third-Party Engagements: Manage Cisco's participation as a key sponsor at selected third-party industry events.Required Skills & Qualifications:Experience: Minimum of 4 years of proven Event Management experience in a similar role, preferably within a global organisation.Leadership & Organisation: A natural leader with exceptional organisational skills and a demonstrated ability to manage complex projects and multiple priorities effectively.Collaboration: A strong team player, capable of fostering collaboration across diverse internal functions and geographical locations to deliver outstanding end-to-end event experiences.Technical Proficiency: Experience with event tools and processes, including registration and website management platforms such as Cvent (or similar), MS Office Suite, and marketing automation tools.Communication: High-level verbal, written, and positive communication skills.Strategic Acumen: Ability to think strategically and translate business objectives into effective event strategies and execution plans.Stakeholder Management: Proven experience in building and maintaining strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.Adaptability: Capable of thriving in a complex, policy-driven work environment while managing multiple concurrent projects.Financial & Compliance Understanding: Good understanding of financial assistance processes and compliance requirements relevant to events.Language: Fluent in English; proficiency in another pan-European language is desirable.