The Events Overlord: Sian’s Experience As Social Sec

Sian is in her third and final year studying BA English Literature & Film Studies at the University of Leeds, and is the Backstage Events Officer 2018.

Hello, it is I, your Events Officer. You may remember me from places such as your Facebook notifications when I make all of my events in bulk – sorry about that.

“As Events Officer, you will be liaising with other societies to create socials together”

As the society’s Events Officer, it is my job to create and monitor all of the events Backstage hosts aside from the shows themselves. Socials are a huge part of this as I have to make sure that our members have the opportunity to unwind – as much as we love putting shows together, they can create a lot of stress in the moment, so having regular socials means that we are able to hang out without the added pressure! This is definitely a more involved role when it comes to communication – as Events Officer, you will be liaising with other societies to create socials together that make our show weeks even more exciting, or will have to keep on top of any bookings we may have from places like Akmal’s and Revs. Regularly checking the BSS email or your own accounts (based on how you have chosen to communicate) is crucial to staying on top of all of our plans.

“It is my job to liaise with the Publicity & Communications Secretary to maintain events such as Give It a Go’s, training sessions, and the AGM social”

Aside from socials, it is also my job to liaise with the Publicity & Communications Secretary (and the rest of committee) to maintain events such as Give It a Go’s, training sessions, and the AGM social. Events like these are crucial to our society as it is new & active members that keep our society going, so allocating time to introduce new and prospective members to the society or a new department is key.

The biggest challenge any Backstage Events Officer will face is Backstage on Tour – this is our biggest and most exciting annual social in which we travel to a magical place far far away (historically London, but this can change) to see a show and celebrate the last year. A lot of organisation has to go into this, so make sure you’re up to the task!

“You will arguably become one of the most approachable of the 8 faces of the society our members will approach if any questions or concerns arise”

Aside from the actual role, being an active member of committee is essential. Being the Events Officer can be all fun, games, and Facebook event cover photos, but it’s soooo important to attend the weekly meetings and form opinions on things that are happening within or affecting our society so that you can move forward as a committee. You will arguably become one of the most approachable of the 8 faces of the society our members will approach if any questions or concerns arise, so be sure you are equipped to help them. Encouraging newer members and showing them the ropes is vital – as a committee member, you need to be prepared to support your members! Being on committee doesn’t mean that you need to be a master in all departments, but it’s incredibly beneficial to pick up information on each role to make your BSS knowledge more well-rounded.

“Encouraging newer members and showing them the ropes is vital – as a committee member, you need to be prepared to support your members!”

As the AGM draws closer and my group admin privileges are removed, I have to say that it has been truly lovely spamming the group with events (that only I find funny) for you all, and I hope it has inspired some of you to run for Events Officer! It’s a great way to get more involved with the society if you #LoveYourTimeAtLeeds, so there’s nothing to lose. Feel free to message me on Facebook or send an email over to social@luubackstage.com if you have any questions about the role or being on committee in general x

By Sian Holland

Posted on 6th March 2018