Conference Manager

Lead Australia's Premier Architecture Conference

Are you passionate about creating world-class events that inspire and connect the architectural community? The Australian Institute of Architects is seeking an experienced Conference Lead to take ownership of our flagship Australian Architecture Conference and deliver exceptional experiences for our members and industry stakeholders.

About Us

As Australia's peak body for the architectural profession, we represent close to 14,000 members nationally and internationally. We promote quality, responsible and sustainable design to improve the built environment through advocacy, education, and member engagement. Our flagship conference is a cornerstone event that brings together the brightest minds in architecture from across the globe.

The Role

This permanent role provides continuity and leadership across the annual conference cycle, ensuring strategic alignment, operational excellence and an outstanding experience for attendees and stakeholders. You'll work closely with our Head of Program Operations and collaborate with internal teams, creative directors, external partners and suppliers to manage all aspects of delivery.

This role is available to be based in either Melbourne or Brisbane, offering flexibility in location to suit the successsful candidate.

What You'll Do

Conference Planning & Delivery

Lead the end-to-end delivery of the Australian Architecture Conference, including timeline management, budgeting, stakeholder engagement and risk oversight

Coordinate with internal teams to ensure seamless integration across communications, education, partnerships, finance, IT and member engagement

Work in partnership with Creative Directors and Steering Committee to shape conference content and attendee experience

Oversee all logistics including venue management, speaker coordination, travel, catering, accessibility, registration systems and technology requirements

Ensure conference delivery meets quality standards, budget parameters and strategic objectives

Stakeholder Engagement

Act as the central point of coordination for all stakeholders involved in the conference

Collaborate closely with Architecture Media, Creative Directors, Steering Committee, and Institute leadership

Build strong relationships with sponsors, speakers, contractors and key suppliers

Support the development and implementation of partner benefits and deliverables

Operational Excellence

Maintain comprehensive project documentation including schedules, budgets and risk registers

Lead operational meetings, track actions, and manage issues and changes

Coordinate development and implementation of registration systems, event apps and onsite technologies

Work with the Head of Program Operations to identify resource needs, escalate risks and manage competing priorities

Lead post-event evaluation processes to gather insights and feedback

Produce summary reports on attendance, engagement, budget performance and outcomes

Identify opportunities for future program improvements, innovation and audience growth

Maintain knowledge and documentation to ensure continuity across annual cycles

What You'll Bring

At least 5 years of demonstrated experience leading large-scale conferences or complex events, preferably in a membership, cultural or not-for-profit environment

Strong project and operational management capabilities with proven ability to deliver on time and within budget

Proven ability to coordinate a wide range of stakeholders and manage multiple competing priorities

Experience with event registration platforms, CRM systems and project planning tools

Excellent communication and relationship management skills

Strong attention to detail and ability to work under pressure

Highly Desirable

IMIS platform experience highly regarded

Experience working with creative professionals, curators or content advisors

Background in architecture, design or built environment sectors

Knowledge of accessibility requirements and inclusive event planning

Experience with digital event technologies and hybrid event delivery

Why Join Us?

Lead Australia's most prestigious architecture conference and shape the future of the profession

Work with renowned creative directors, architects and industry leaders

Develop your expertise in large-scale event management within a respected professional body

Engage with members, sponsors, suppliers and international speakers

Contribute to the Institute's mission of promoting quality, responsible and sustainable design

What We Offer

Competitive salary and benefits package

Opportunity to work with prestigious national and international speakers

Collaborative and supportive work environment

Flexible working arrangements

Access to Institute events and professional development programs

Ready to Lead Australia's Premier Architecture Event?

If you're an experienced event professional who thrives on delivering exceptional conferences and wants to make a meaningful contribution to Australia's architectural community, we'd love to hear from you.

The Australian Institute of Architects is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Salary match Number of applicants Skills match

Your application will include the following questions:Which of the following statements best describes your right to work in Australia? How many years' experience do you have as a Conference Manager? Do you have experience in a role which requires relationship management experience? How many years' experience do you have in event management? Which of the following Microsoft Office products are you experienced with? What's your expected annual base salary? How much notice are you required to give your current employer?

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