Head of Congress role at BSAVA

8 August 2016

We currently have an opportunity for an experienced individual to lead our Congress team based near Gloucester. Please see below for details of the job description.

The deadline for applications is Wednesday 31st August 2016.

The role:
Working for a national Association, this is a fantastic opportunity to lead our Congress team based near Gloucester. The Association hosts the largest annual small animal veterinary conference in Europe and the Exhibition forms a key part of the event alongside the internationally renowned scientific programme. In addition, the Association delivers a full programme of education courses, produces a range of publications and other resources that contribute to the continuing professional development of veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses.

The Head of Congress is responsible for the overall delivery of the Association’s Congress programme. Guiding and developing both operational and strategic solutions to ensure we maintain a world class delegate experience as well as working with our Exhibitors to ensure they have the very best experience and strong return on investment. It is a key appointment, leading a team playing a pivotal role in the direction of the Association’s current and future Congress offerings.

Skills and Experience
We are looking for an individual with a minimum of five year’s commercial experience and ideally educated to degree level in events, marketing or business management. A proven track record in developing and delivering income through forging strong relationships, understanding and meeting customers’ business objectives.

A track record of success within the corporate event space including delivering complex events is important and experience in the Healthcare or Veterinary Sector an advantage. A comprehensive knowledge of the event/marketing industry and current trends along with the proven ability to manage multiple projects and prioritise are fundamental.

The ability to manage a large budget and enhance profitability is important with a capability to demonstrate consultative sales skills and prior success in achieving sales targets. Direct experience of sponsorship and exhibition sales would be valuable but business development experience is essential.

Leadership experience and an ability to demonstrate excellent people skills are essential to the role in order to manage a dedicated and talented team.

The Person

The successful candidate will have excellent communication and client relationship building skills being both creative and forward thinking. The right person will also be able to be creative with excellent proposal writing and presentation skills.

They will also be highly organised, results driven, strive to make a difference and enjoy a challenge. They will need to work proactively as part of the team and have the ability to clearly convey and receive messages building consensus with internal departments. This is an active role and the candidate must be flexible and be able to work in a pressured environment to achieve their objectives.

A desire to understand the sector to build knowledge and credibility is important.

Please send your CV to a.stranack@bsava.com

Closing date: 31st August 2016 – If applicants haven’t received a response within 7 days of the closing date then it is to be assumed that they have not been successful with their application.

Salary & Benefits 
£45,000 – £55,000 per annum depending on experience. 7% contributions towards Group Personal Pension, Life Assurance and Private Medical Insurance, 23 days holiday