Conference Manager

Salt; Johannesburg; Hybrid; ZAR 420,000 - 640,000; Full time

Job summary

Salt is seeking a Conference Manager to own conference content development and speaker management across a portfolio of events. You will research industries, identify trends and develop compelling programmes, while securing high-profile speakers to ensure delivery from concept to execution.

You will work closely with sales, marketing, operations and digital teams to shape event strategy and deliver content that engages industry stakeholders. Report to the Production Director.

Qualifications

• Experience in conference production or related field is required.
• Strong research, analytical and communication skills are essential.
• Excellent written communication and content creation abilities.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
• Commercial awareness and ability to work cross-functionally with internal stakeholders.
• Self-motivated, proactive and able to work independently.
• Experience delivering in-person and/or virtual events.
• Familiarity with professional networking platforms, especially LinkedIn.

Responsibilities

• Conduct market research and industry analysis.
• Identify trends, opportunities, and challenges in target sectors.
• Develop conference themes, topics and programme structures.
• Write engaging agenda copy and invitations.
• Source and manage senior-level speakers and industry experts.
• Collaborate with sales and marketing to maximise commercial success.
• Coordinate with operations and digital teams for seamless delivery.
• Manage programmes and relationships during live events.
• Build relationships with senior stakeholders and industry leaders.
• Promote events on professional networks, particularly LinkedIn.

Skills

Conference production

Event content development

Research

Analytical skills

Written communication

Project management

Cross-functional collaboration

LinkedIn / social platforms

Independent work

Tools

LinkedIn

Job description

Conference Manager

Hybrid working model with a minimum of four days in the office

About the Company

Our client is a leading international events and exhibitions business with a strong track record of creating impactful B2B conferences across multiple industries and global markets.

For over three decades, the organisation has connected senior decision-makers, innovators, and industry leaders through world-class events that drive knowledge sharing, business growth, and meaningful industry change. Their conferences cover a range of sectors, including technology, infrastructure, renewable energy, aviation, healthcare, financial services, and education.

The business fosters a collaborative, high-performance culture where curiosity, innovation, and commercial thinking are highly valued.

About the Role

As the Conference Manager, you will take full ownership of conference content development and speaker management across a portfolio of events. You will be responsible for researching industries, identifying market trends, developing compelling conference programmes, securing high-profile speakers, and ensuring the successful delivery of conferences from concept through to execution.

Working closely with sales, marketing, operations, and digital teams, you will play a key role in shaping event strategy and delivering valuable content that attracts and engages industry stakeholders.

This position reports directly to the Production Director.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct in-depth market research and industry analysis.
• Identify emerging trends, opportunities, and challenges within target sectors.
• Develop conference themes, topics, and programme structures.
• Write engaging agenda copy, speaker invitations, and event content.
• Source, engage, and manage senior-level speakers and industry experts.
• Collaborate with sales and marketing teams to maximise commercial success and audience engagement.
• Coordinate with operations and digital teams to ensure seamless event delivery.
• Manage conference programmes and speaker relationships during live events.
• Build and maintain relationships with senior stakeholders and industry leaders.
• Promote events through professional networking platforms, particularly LinkedIn.

About You

Skills & Experience

• Previous experience in conference production, event content development, publishing, journalism, editorial, or a related field.
• Strong research, analytical, and communication skills.
• Excellent written communication and content creation abilities.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously.
• Commercial awareness and the ability to work cross-functionally with internal stakeholders.
• Self-motivated, proactive, and comfortable working independently.
• Experience supporting the delivery of in-person and/or virtual events.
• Strong understanding of professional networking and social media platforms, particularly LinkedIn.

Personal Attributes

• Customer-focused with a commitment to delivering exceptional experiences.
• High levels of integrity and professionalism.
• Creative thinker with the ability to develop innovative content and event concepts.
• Growth-oriented mindset and a collaborative approach to teamwork.
• Energetic, positive, and enthusiastic about events and relationship building.
• Detail-oriented with a strong commitment to quality and execution excellence.

Why Join?

• Opportunity to work on internationally recognised B2B events.
• Exposure to senior industry leaders and global markets.
• Collaborative and high-performing team environment.
• Clear opportunities for professional growth and career development.
• Hybrid working model with a strong emphasis on teamwork and office collaboration.