Overview
A career in conference production offers an exciting and fast-paced entry into the events industry, blending research, project management, and commercial strategy. Unlike traditional event management, conference producers focus on curating high-value content, securing industry-leading speakers, and ensuring events drive revenue and professional engagement. This role involves:
- Researching industry trends to develop commercially viable and engaging conference topics.
- Writing compelling conference agendas that attract professionals and decision-makers.
- Securing influential speakers from major organisations and industry leaders.
- Managing event logistics and ensuring seamless execution.
With conferences often catering to international audiences, many professionals in this field travel globally, gaining exposure to different markets and networking with industry leaders. If you're commercially minded, enjoy research, and have strong communication skills, conference production could be an ideal career choice.
Average Conference Production Graduate Salary
Conference Production Graduate Career Path
Conference production offers a structured yet varied career path, allowing graduates to develop industry expertise while progressing into leadership roles. Many professionals start as junior producers and advance into strategic and managerial positions. Typical career stages include:
- Junior Conference Producer – Conducts market research, drafts conference agendas, and sources speakers.
- Conference Producer – Takes full responsibility for event content, ensuring it aligns with market demand.
- Senior Conference Producer – Oversees multiple events, mentors junior staff, and develops strategic conference topics.
- Conference Manager – Focuses on sponsorship acquisition, marketing strategies, and event execution.
- Conference/Division Director – Leads large-scale events, manages teams, and drives overall business growth.
Some professionals transition into freelance conference production, working independently with global clients on a project-by-project basis. Others move into related fields such as event marketing, media production, or corporate communications. If you enjoy research, networking, and managing projects with commercial impact, conference production offers exciting career progression and international opportunities.
Qualifications and Skills Needed
What proportion of candidates as a percent we place into Conference Production graduate careers and the typical qualities graduate employers look for.
GRB Placements for Conference Production by Degree
Typical Candidate Attributes
Most conference production roles require:
- A 2:1 degree or higher (all disciplines considered, though some employers prefer research-heavy subjects).
- Strong A-Level results (typically ABB or higher).
Preferred degree subjects:
- History, Geography, Economics, Humanities, Social Sciences – Valued for research and analysis skills.
- Business & Marketing – Useful for commercial awareness and sponsorship development.
Employers look for intellectually curious, commercially aware graduates with the following skills:
- Research & Analysis – Identifying industry trends and shaping conference content.
- Communication & Networking – Engaging with senior professionals and securing speakers.
- Organisational & Time Management – Handling multiple deadlines and event logistics.
- Commercial Awareness – Understanding market demand and revenue potential.
- Entrepreneurial Mindset – Thinking creatively and spotting new business opportunities.
- Confidence & Public Speaking – Conducting research calls and presenting to stakeholders.
Employers also value extracurricular activities such as:
- Public speaking, debate clubs, or Model UN – Demonstrating confidence and research ability.
- Travel experience – Showing cultural awareness and adaptability.
- Sports, music, or leadership roles – Indicating teamwork and resilience.
If you’re eager to combine research, strategy, and event planning in a high-energy environment, conference production could be a perfect fit.
Recruitment & Application Process
The hiring process for conference production roles typically includes:
- Online Application – Submit a CV and cover letter, often with a focus on research skills and commercial awareness.
- Psychometric Tests – Some employers use verbal reasoning and logical thinking tests to assess candidates.
- Phone/Video Interview – Discuss your research skills, industry knowledge, and ability to handle high-pressure tasks.
- Assessment Centre – May involve group tasks, a research project, or a mock conference pitch.
- Final Interview – Usually with senior producers or directors to assess your commercial mindset and strategic thinking.
Is Conference Production the Right Career for You?
This career is best suited for graduates who enjoy research, networking, and high-pressure environments. If you:
- Enjoy deep-diving into industry trends and creating engaging content.
- Have strong communication skills and confidence in speaking with senior professionals.
- Thrive in fast-paced environments where commercial success is a key factor.
- Are interested in travel and global networking opportunities.
…then conference production could be a highly rewarding career choice!