NEON Events and Membership Services Officer

Opportunity Review: Events and Membership Services Officer with NEON at the University of West London

This review offers a professional perspective on the Events and Membership Services Officer position at the National Education Opportunities Network (NEON), part of the University of West London (UWL). We aim to provide prospective candidates with a clear understanding of this exciting opportunity and guide them in their career development.

The University of West London (UWL) is a dynamic institution with a strong reputation, recognized as the Best modern university in London and ranking highly in national guides for student satisfaction and experience. NEON itself is a significant national charity dedicated to fostering social mobility and widening access to higher education. This role places you at the heart of an organisation committed to making a tangible difference in the lives of under-represented groups.

Key Advantages for Candidates:

• Impactful Work: This role offers the chance to contribute directly to a mission that promotes opportunity and social mobility in higher education. You will be supporting initiatives that empower individuals from diverse backgrounds to access and succeed in university.
• Professional Development Focus: Working with NEON means being involved in the planning and delivery of professional development programmes for the higher education sector. This provides a unique learning environment and exposure to best practices.
• Diverse Engagement: You will have the opportunity to interact with a wide range of stakeholders, including university members, speakers, delegates, politicians, and policymakers, broadening your professional network and understanding of the sector.
• Skill Development: The role is rich in opportunities to hone a variety of skills. You will gain hands-on experience in event planning and management (both online and physical), membership administration, financial record-keeping, marketing and communications, website management, and content creation.
• Supportive Environment: As part of UWL, you'll be joining a diverse community that values inclusivity and progression. NEON itself fosters a collaborative spirit, working to improve access and success for all.
• Career Growth Potential: The opportunity to support the development of an accreditation framework and contribute to strategic marketing efforts presents a strong foundation for career advancement within the higher education and non-profit sectors.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Event Management: A significant part of this role involves the logistical planning and execution of NEON's events. Candidates should be comfortable with detailed organisation, coordinating with various parties, and managing multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Communication and Interpersonal Skills: Strong literacy and communication skills are paramount. You will be liaising with presenters, delegates, and members, as well as producing content for various platforms.
• Digital Proficiency: A good understanding of the Microsoft Office suite is essential, along with the ability to create engaging web content and manage social media presence. Experience with website updates will be highly beneficial.
• Proactive and Independent Work Ethic: The role requires a self-motivated individual who can work remotely to agreed targets with minimal supervision. This means being organised, efficient, and capable of problem-solving independently.
• Administrative Acumen: The position involves a range of administrative duties, including recording participant information, maintaining financial records, and organising meetings. Attention to detail and accuracy are crucial.
• Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion: NEON's mission is deeply rooted in promoting equality. Candidates who are passionate about diversity and social mobility will find this role particularly rewarding.

This position is an excellent stepping stone for individuals looking to build a career in higher education administration, event management, or the non-profit sector. The breadth of responsibilities and the impactful nature of the work offer a comprehensive and rewarding professional experience.