Volunteer Role: Events Lead

Position Type: Volunteer / Executive Committee Member

Time Commitment: Flexible (approx. 3–5 hours per month, plus attendance at key events)

Location: Newton Abbot & surrounding area

About the Role

As the Newton Abbot Chamber of Commerce continues to grow, we are expanding our calendar of events to better serve our members and the local business community. To support this growth, we are looking for an enthusiastic and organized individual to join our Executive Committee as our Events Lead.

This is a fantastic opportunity to play a central role in bringing local businesses together. Whether you are an experienced event planner looking to give back to the community, or someone eager to gain hands-on experience in event management, marketing, and business administration, we would love to hear from you.

Purpose of the Role

Working alongside the Executive Committee, the Events Lead will take ownership of planning, coordinating, and managing the Chamber’s event schedule. You will ensure our networking sessions, workshops, and flagship gatherings run smoothly, offer great value to members, and showcase the vibrant business scene in Newton Abbot.

Key Responsibilities

  • Venue & Partner Liaison: Research, contact, and negotiate pricing with local venues for upcoming meetings, networking sessions, and special events.
  • Speaker & Content Coordination: Identify, reach out to, and coordinate with guest speakers and presenters for Chamber events.
  • Ticketing & Platform Management: Set up and manage event listings using our online ticketing platform (currently Eventbrite).
  • Event Planning & Brainstorming: Bring fresh ideas for new event formats, topics, and social gatherings that benefit our members and the local community.
  • On-the-Day Coordination: Coordinate with the Executive Committee to assign roles and ensure clear coverage for running events on the day.
  • Special Events: Lead the planning for annual highlights, such as the Chamber Christmas Meal (including venue selection, menu pre-orders, and attendee logistics).
  • Communication: Work with the committee to provide event details for marketing materials, newsletters, and social media promotion.

What We Are Looking For

  • Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.
  • Good communication skills for liaising with venues, speakers, and local business leaders.
  • A proactive, team-oriented mindset.
  • Basic familiarity with (or willingness to learn) online tools like Eventbrite.
  • Passion for supporting the local business community in Newton Abbot.
  • Prior experience in event management is a plus, but not essential—enthusiasm and reliability are key!

What You’ll Gain

  • Real-World Experience: Hands-on experience in full-cycle event management, contract negotiation, and stakeholder coordination.
  • Networking: Direct exposure to local business leaders, council members, and key stakeholders across Newton Abbot.
  • Community Impact: A rewarding opportunity to give back and help shape the economic vitality of our town.
  • Committee Experience: Experience working as part of a formal Executive Committee for a respected local organization.

How to Apply / Get in Touch

If you or someone you know is interested in joining our Executive Committee as our Events Lead, please get in touch with the Chair Mark – chair@newtonabbotchamber.co.uk