About ABEA
The Australian Business Events Association (ABEA) is the leading national body representing professionals and organisations involved in business events across Australia. ABEA was formed through the unification of three existing and successful organisations; the Association of Australian Convention Bureaux (AACB), the Australian Convention Centres Group (ACCG), and the Exhibition & Events Association of Australasia Ltd (EEAA). Operations commenced on 3 July 2023.

ABEA is a member based not-for-profit and is responsible for representing and supporting the prosperity of the organisations and people that work in, or benefit from the Australian business events industry. Our objective is to promote the business events industry and drive member prosperity through industry development, networking, research, and advocacy fostering a vibrant and connected community.

Role Overview
The Operations and Events Manager is a pivotal role within ABEA and responsible for coordinating national events and overseeing core operational functions. This role blends strategic thinking with hands-on execution, requiring a highly organised, proactive professional with a strong background in event management, member and stakeholder engagement, and business operations.

You will work closely with the CEO, Financial Controller, external partners, and the broader ABEA team to deliver high-quality member experiences and contribute to the organisation’s long-term success. This is a national role and operating remotely.

Key Responsibilities
Member Services & Operations

• Member Engagement: Serve as the primary point of contact for member enquiries, providing timely and professional responses to enhance member satisfaction. Coordinate distribution of member information kits and other related collateral.
• Membership Management: Collaborate with outsourcing agency to oversee member renewals, maintain accurate membership records, and implement strategies for member retention and growth. Collaborate with Financial Controller on accurate tracking and communication.

Financial & Administrative Coordination

• Financial Management: Work with the CEO and Finance Sub Committee on budget development, forecasting, and financial oversight for business activities.
• Financial Operations: Support the financial operations including invoicing and reconciliation in collaboration with the Financial Controller.
• Business Operations: Coordinate business operations such as insurance renewals, employee records, and company filings.
• Compliance Management: Ensure all operations adhere to ABEA’s policies and relevant regulatory requirements, maintaining high standards of governance.
• Process Improvement: Continuously assess and refine operational processes to enhance organisational efficiency and the overall member experience.

Event Management

• National Event Coordination: Plan and execute a range of national events, workshops, and networking opportunities that provide value to members and promote industry advancement.
• Annual Conference Leadership: Collaborate with a Professional Conference Organisers (PCO) and the CEO to deliver a high-quality annual conference, overseeing logistics, program development, sponsorship acquisition, and attendee engagement.
• Stakeholder Liaison: Engage with venues, speakers, sponsors, and suppliers to ensure seamless event execution and a superior attendee experience.
• Post-Event Analysis: Conduct thorough evaluations of events to assess success, gather feedback, and identify areas for improvement.
• Awards: Support the ABEA Awards Program including collation of submissions and coordination of judging and certification.

Website and Digital Management

• Digital Platforms Oversight: Manage the update of ABEA’s website and member database, ensuring information is current, accessible, and aligns with our strategic objectives.
• Digital Content: Manage updates for listings, events, resources and news content.
• Digital Experience: Ensure the user experience supports member engagement and information accessibility.

Stakeholder & Partner Engagement

• Relationship Building: Develop and maintain strong relationships with members, industry partners, sponsors, and other stakeholders to foster collaboration and support for ABEA’s initiatives.
• Support to Governance Bodies: Provide administrative support to the board and various committees, facilitating effective governance and decision-making processes.
• Representation: Act as an ambassador for ABEA at industry events, meetings, and forums, promoting the association’s mission and services.

Skills & Experience

• Industry Experience: Proven experience in operations, event management, or member services within the business events sector or a related industry.
• Project Management: Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, with strong organisational and time-management skills. Strong attention to detail and an ability to improve operational systems and processes
• Communication Proficiency: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with a strong customer service orientation.
• Technical Aptitude: Proficiency in Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems (preferably membes), website content management, and other digital tools relevant to client or member services and event management such as Canva. AI experience a plus.
• Financial Acumen: Experience in budgeting, financial reporting, financial systems and working collaboratively on financial processes. MYOB and Stripe experience ideal.
• Team Collaboration: Ability to work both independently and as part of a team, with experience in leading cross-functional projects. A self-starter with a collaborative spirit.
• Adaptability: Capacity to thrive in a dynamic environment, with a proactive approach to problem-solving and process improvement.

Why Join ABEA?

• Industry Impact: Play a key role in shaping the future of Australia’s business events industry.
• Professional Growth: Opportunities for continuous learning and development within a supportive, purpose driven and collaborative team environment.
• Flexible Work Environment: Embrace flexible working arrangements that promote work-life balance.
• Networking Opportunities: Engage with a broad network of industry professionals, stakeholders, and thought leaders.

If you're passionate about the events industry, love a spreadsheet, prefer phone over email because you like people hearing the smile in your voice, can juggle many spinning plates at once, not a lot phases you, and you enjoy delivering great event experiences because it gives you a buzz, then this could be the role for you.

If you operate more productively remote yet relish the interaction when you have a gathering with the team, you're professional, and comfortable with all levels of seniority then apply today.

How to apply: Please send your resume and cover letter to memberservices@abea.org.au by Thursday 01 May.