At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage and coordinate large conferences, ensuring everything runs smoothly and on time.
- Company: Join Abbey Conferences, a multi-award-winning company in the travel industry.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, generous leave, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Opportunities for international travel and professional development await you.
- Why this job: Be part of a progressive team making an impact in the events industry.
- Qualifications: Experience in event management and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
THE COMPANY
Abbey Conferences is part of the Abbey Group, an established and fast-growing Destination Management Company, dedicated to selling the destinations of Ireland and the UK to the International travel trade on a B2B basis.
- Today, the group sells under a number of distinct brands;
- Abbey Conferences (Conference management across Europe and beyond)
- Abbey Events (Events & Corporate meetings)
- Abbey The Destination Experts (Group and FIT travel experiences)
- Moloney & Kelly (Incentive & Luxury travel).
Abbey Conferences are multi-award-winning International Conferences organisers with offices in Dublin and Edinburgh.
Under our Abbey Conferences brand, we provide a wide range of professional conferences services in-person, virtual and hybrid basis.
- WHY WORK FOR US
- The Abbey Group is proud to hold a certification for being a Great Place To Work UK & a Great Place to Work Ireland
- Abbey Group is certified Gold for sustainability across all its brands
- Progressive Company
- Deloitte Best Managed company for 16 consecutive years
- Hybrid/blended working option available
- Up to 60 days per year remote working abroad
- A paid day off on your birthday & an additional paid day off over the Christmas period
- Discretionary Company Bonus Scheme
- Company contribution to occupational pension scheme
- Discretionary flexible benefit contribution towards pension or health care plan
- Learning and development opportunities – individual training budget per year
- Employee Assistance Programme – health & wellbeing support
- Active Social Committee and Green Team including free events throughout the year
- Multinational workforce with over 30 nationalities
TITLE OF VACANCY
Conference Project Manager, Abbey Conferences – Dublin/Edinburgh (hybrid)
We are looking for an experienced Conference Project Manager who can manage multiple large and complex conferences at once.
The right candidate will work closely together with the Director of Operations and will be responsible for supervising junior members of the team to ensure that all assigned tasks are completed on time.
Budget Management and Timelines are an important part of this role.
THE ROLE AND CORE DUTIES INCLUDE
- Co-ordinate and manage the organisation of all assigned conferences.
- Client relationship management - be the key company contact with the Local Organising Committee (LOC) and attend all LOC meetings.
- Work with LOC to design all aspects of the conference and to implement the direction of the LOC in relation to the conference.
- Onsite management - be the company’s key representative on site during the operation of the conference.
- Manage and support the departmental staff assigned to the conference.
- Provide support and training to conference presenters/hosts to ensure they understand the LOC’s objectives for the conference and to familiarise themselves with all the technical aspects of the conference.
- Accommodation management/venue management/supplier management.
- Online registration & abstract management.
- AV and catering co-ordination.
- Website set up and maintenance.
- Transport & travel management.
- Social Programme creation and co-ordination.
- Budget management.
- Support our Sponsorship Manager with funding/sponsorship & exhibition activities.
- Attend supplier meetings.
- Attending presentations on occasion where required.
- Complete financial and credit control over the conferences handled by the company.
- Assist with the supervision of staff allocated to the Conference division.
- Maintenance and development of the Company’s Event Management system.
This includes setting up and maintaining conferences in the system and the management of the Online Registration and Abstract Submission systems.
The role also extends to integration of external client websites to the Company’s internal system. (Training provided)
- Assisting the Abbey Group with its environmental and responsible tourism initiatives.
- Any other duties as assigned from time to time by your manager or other or board member.
- International travel may be required and will be in compliance with the company’s Business Travel Policy.
REQUIREMENTS
Essential
- Extensive experience in a similar role/company
- Ability to meet agreed time paths/deadlines
- Motivated self-starter with a passion for client care plus a commitment to delivering services to the highest level
- Good team player
- Strong technical/computer abilities
- Excellent communication skills
- Willingness to travel – mainly within the UK & Ireland but also possibly to some mainland European locations
- Relevant 3rd level degree in Event Management, Tourism, Business or Languages or relevant experience
- Very good knowledge of MS Office
Desirable
- Familiarity with the Events Air conference management software is a distinct advantage
Abbey Group is an equal opportunities employer.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Project Manager in Dunfermline
✨Get Involved in Local Travel Events
Join local tourism fairs or travel expos in your area. These events are a treasure trove for networking, and you can often meet hiring managers from companies like Abbey Group who are looking for fresh talent for roles like Project Manager.
✨Showcase Your Travel Know-How
Create a travel blog or use social media to share your experiences and insights about different destinations. This can help you stand out to recruiters in the travel industry, demonstrating your passion for the sector and your ability to engage with an audience.
✨Connect with Alumni from Your School
Check out alumni groups linked to the travel and tourism sectors. Often, these connections can lead to inside info about opportunities at companies like Abbey Group and give you a leg up for your Project Manager application.
✨Don’t Shy Away from Cold Emails
If there's a dream company you want to join, don’t hesitate to send a friendly email to their HR or recruitment team. Express your interest in their vision and mention that you’re keen on any Project Manager openings they might have. It's a bold move, but it might just pay off!
We think you need these skills to ace Project Manager in Dunfermline
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Travel:In the travel and tourism industry, your love for exploration and different cultures should shine through in your application. Make sure to share personal anecdotes or experiences that highlight your enthusiasm for travel—this can really set you apart when applying for the Project Manager role at Abbey Group.
Highlight Your Customer Service Skills:Customer service is king in travel and tourism. When detailing your work experience, focus on situations where you provided outstanding service or resolved customer issues, as this demonstrates your ability to ensure client satisfaction. Include specific examples in your CV to show that you're ready to face the challenges of the Project Manager position at Abbey Group.
Keep Your CV Travel-Themed:When it comes to CV conventions in the travel industry, think of including any relevant certifications or training you've completed, like first aid or tour guiding courses. If you've travelled widely yourself, don't hesitate to mention that—it's all about showing your background fits the globetrotting vibe of Abbey Group.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should not only explain why you're a great fit but also reflect your personality! Use this space to express what excites you about the travel sector and how you can contribute to Abbey Group's adventures. Share any unique perspectives or ideas you have to enhance the travel experience, especially as a full-time Project Manager.
How to prepare for a job interview at Abbey Group
✨Show Off Your Travel Knowledge
For a role in travel and tourism, it’s vital to demonstrate your knowledge of different destinations, cultures, and travel trends. Brush up on popular destinations and recent changes in travel restrictions. We suggest bringing some interesting travel stories or experiences to share—this can help you connect personally with the interviewer!
✨Prepare for Customer Scenarios
Expect to be hit with customer service scenarios during the interview. They might ask how you'd handle a challenging traveller or resolve a booking issue. Think of a few real-life examples from your experiences, even if they’re just from customer service roles. This will show that you're ready for the field and have the right mindset to tackle on-the-ground challenges!
✨Highlight Your Flexibility and Passion
In a full-time travel position, there are often irregular hours and spontaneous travel opportunities. Be sure to convey your flexibility and willingness to embrace the unpredictable nature of this industry. Let’s showcase that enthusiasm for travel and how it drives your decision-making!
✨Know the Tools of the Trade
Get familiar with travel booking systems and tools, such as Amadeus or Sabre. If you have experience using any specific software or even social media for travel promotions, bring that up! We want to show that you can hit the ground running and adapt quickly to their processes at Abbey Group.
