Conference & Research Manager

Job description / Role

Based in Dubai - working on the Saudi Arabia Conference market. Reports to: General Manager – Saudi Arabia/Director of Conferences

The Role

Research new exhibition/event ideas for Saudi Arabia and check for their suitability in the relevant market

Collate background information for each new topic idea, including competitive or similar events in other countries
Identify the prospective exhibitor, visitor or conference delegate for the event
Present the findings in a logical and systematic format according to guidelines
Create report on each potential event as per guidelines
Involvement with the production of key conferences
Create conference programmes from inception to delivery

Main Tasks and Responsibilities

Research

Conduct research using a variety of sources including the internet, journals and publications or other relevant literature on similar events
Prepare a strategic research questionnaire and conduct a substantial telephone research campaign independently
Identify industry products relevant for the exhibitor profile either locally or internationally or both
Identify the industries for the visitor and potential job titles
Assess the numbers for each industry in the local market place and nearby countries
Focusing on new target markets
Maintaining knowledge of all industry sectors
Identifying strengths and weaknesses of competitors events through research
Where relevant identify potential conference delegate by industry and job function
Identify all associations, government departments and media connected to the subject
Identify other conferences on this theme and note their speakers and topics
Identify any database gaps (e.g. missing job titles) and initiate database research
Plan and undertake telephone research campaigns for each topic to assess potential exhibitor interest
Compile a report for each topic researched according to the document guideline

Production

Produce industry relevant conference programmes
Liaise with key professionals/institutions and companies in the production of conference programmes
Contact suggested speakers and confirm their attendance
Organise hands on workshops alongside our events with companies
Assist the marketing department in the relevant distribution of marketing materials (e.g. brochures) to companies and departments
Write invitation letters for the conferences and events
Undertake where necessary, additional tasks to assist the sales and marketing teams
Perform any other duties commensurate with the grade and level of responsibility

Requirements

Minimum Education Level Required:

Educated to UK GCE ‘O’ level or equivalent

Essential:

Ability to analyse complex information, including technical jargon
Computer literate and proficient in the use of Microsoft Word and Excel
Speaks and writes clearly and fluently in English to both individuals and groups
Well-developed research skills (including web research and all other available sources of information)
Copywriting skills

Desirable:

Spoken Arabic
Experience of growing and developing new markets and products
Related industry knowledge
Understand the local and GCC market (key companies and industries)

Essential:

Effective communication at all levels internally and externally

Trustworthy and discrete with sensitive information
Remains calm and approachable under pressure
Flexible and adaptable
Creative thinking skills for problem solving
Ability to work under pressure and within changing priorities and deadlines
Customer focus
Decision making
Analytical
Results driven
Attention to detail and accuracy
Planning and organising
Ability to multi task
Interpersonal skills
Time management
Build and maintain relationships
Effective communication at all levels internally and externally
Interpersonal skills
Ability to work under pressure and within changing priorities and deadlines

About the Company

Mackenzie Jones Middle East has decades of recruitment expertise in various industry sectors. Along with a deep understanding of key market sectors and regions, we never forget to treat clients, companies and candidates as individuals who have unique needs.

So we always listen, constantly learn, occasionally challenge and frequently advise. Its all part of a service renowned for its courtesy, consideration and dedication. Based in Dubai since 2006, our office covers the GCC and Levant countries and with the right regional expertise, we are the leading specialists.

Were growing rapidly because people appreciate our honesty, commitment and results.