A conference producer researches ideas and topics, plans and manages conferences, exhibitions or seminars on behalf of organisations. They are also known as conference and exhibition organisers.

The Work

You would:

• research different markets to identify relevant topics for future conferences and target audiences
• choose suitable venues, devise agendas and plan budgets
• arrange caterers, special equipment and promotional material
• book speakers, find sponsorship and invite special guests to attend
• sell stand space to exhibitors
• work with marketing staff to write publicity material and deal with media requirements
• oversee the event and operations team, making sure everything runs to plan and budget
• analyse data and feedback to determine how successful the event was
• ensure that all legal and health and safety requirements are met.

Pay

The figures below are only a guide. Actual salaries may vary, depending on:

• where you work
• the size of company or organisation you work for
• the demand for the job.

Starting salaries are around £30,000 a year, and with experience rises to between £35,000 and £40,000 a year. Senior level salaries are from £50,000 to £60,000 a year.

If you are freelance your salary will vary depending on your workload and reputation.

Conditions

• You would be based in an office, but attend events.
• You will work to deadlines, which may involve working long hours, including evenings and weekends.
• You might work on more than one project at the same time.
• You might attend networking events, such as business lunches, to develop and maintain new business contacts.
• You travel to different locations and sometimes spend nights away from home.
• Usually you work indoors, but some events might be outdoors.

Useful Subjects

• Administration and IT
• English
• French
• Italian
• Media
• Spanish

Getting In

• Although there are no formal entry requirements, most entrants have an HND (SCQF Level 8) or degree (SCQF Level 9-10). Events management, hospitality management, business and media are all relevant subjects.
• For entry to an HND course you normally require 1-2 Highers plus some subjects at National 5. For entry to a degree course you need 4-5 Highers.
• Some entrants have experience in marketing, hospitality or public relations.
• You can gain experience through a work placement as part of a course or by volunteering or working part time at events.
• You need a full driving licence for some posts.
• You may have to move to other areas of the UK for work.

What Does it Take?

You should have:

• good research skills
• excellent organisational skills
• project management and budgeting skills
• good communication skills
• initiative, persistence and stamina
• a good eye for detail
• good negotiation and persuasion skills
• an interest in popular culture, business and trends.

You need to able to:

• spot new business opportunities
• network and make contacts
• meet deadlines and work under pressure.

Training

• Training is mainly on the job.
• You could choose to study part time at college or university whilst working in the industry.

Getting On

• With experience, you can progress to a senior position, such as conference manager or conference director.
• Self-employed work is common. Clients can include colleges and universities, professional organisations, trade unions or political parties.
• Work is available all over the UK and there may be opportunities to work abroad.
• You might move into marketing or public relations.

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Contacts

The following organisations may be able to provide further information.