ABO 2027 Conference Assistant (fixed term)

ABO; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 22,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

ABO is seeking a conference assistant on a fixed-term basis from December 2026 to the end of the conference in Birmingham. You will support member services, manage bookings, update the ABO database, and assist with marketing tasks.

The role requires strong organisational and communication skills, an interest in classical music, and the ability to work as part of a team. You will greet delegates, support speakers and sponsors, and help run the conference app and social media updates.

Qualifications

• Strong organisational and communication skills.
• Interest in classical music and orchestral sector.
• Ability to work independently or as part of a team.

Responsibilities

• Support member services in advance of the conference, including newsletters, enquiries, and ABO database updates.
• Assist conference booking process for delegates, trade and sponsorship, and badge production.
• Regularly update conference information online, upload speaker bios/photos, and manage delegate lists.
• Create and post content for ABO social channels and schedule messages for the conference app.
• Attend the full conference, welcome delegates, speakers, sponsors and VIP guests at registration.
• Liaise with venue staff to ensure smooth running, supervise sessions and moderate Q&As.
• Assist with ABO marketplace setup for sponsors and exhibitors.
• Support the team with any additional duties as required.

Skills

Organisational skills

Communication

Teamwork

Attention to detail

Tools

Microsoft Office

CrowdComms

Job description

We are looking for a conference assistant to join the ABO team for a fixed-term period beginning in December 2026 in the run-up to and for the duration of the conference. Many former assistants and interns who started at the ABO have gone on to successful careers in the sector and now work for organisations that are themselves members of the association.

Job Description

• Supporting member services in advance of the conference, including member newsletters, answering telephone and email enquiries, and updating the ABO database as needed.
• Supporting the conference booking process for delegates, trade and sponsorship places, creation and ordering of lanyards, name badges, and printed programmes.
• Regularly updating conference information on the ABO website and online platforms (CrowdComms), including edits to the programme and session contents, uploading speaker biographies and photos, delegate lists and graphics/documents.
• Support the Marketing & Communications Manager in creating and posting content on the ABO’s social media channels in the lead up to and throughout the conference, as well as emails to delegates and scheduling messages through the conference app.
• Attend the full conference, welcoming delegates, speakers, sponsors and VIP guests at the registration desk.
• Supporting the Conference Manager liaising with venue staff to ensure smooth running of the conference, supervising sessions and moderating digital Q&As as required.
• Assisting the Marketing & Communications Manager in liaising with sponsors and trade exhibitors setting up for the ABO Marketplace.
• Assisting the ABO team with any additional duties as required.

Role Requirements

We are looking for a candidate with strong organisational and communication skills, as well as a keen interest in classical music and the orchestral sector. You will be a responsible individual with a proactive approach, excellent attention to detail and the ability to work independently or as part of a team. You may be liaising with ABO members, artists, audiences, or partner organisations, so a friendly and professional manner is essential.

This role involves using technology, so confidence using IT is essential, and an understanding of data protection and confidentiality is important. Familiarity with Microsoft Office programs, including mail merge features, as well as the use of audio/visual hardware for presentations, meetings and social media would be an advantage. Previous experience in an arts or administrative role is helpful but not essential. We welcome candidates who are eager to learn and develop their skills within a supportive team environment.

Contact details

[e-mail]
020 7759 1060
West Wing, Somerset House, Strand, London, WC2R 1LA

Related information

• Download 2027 ABO Conference Assistant Job Description

The next ABO conference will take place in Birmingham from 3-5 February 2027 .