Global Conference Operations Manager (Contract / Freelance, 6-12)

About the Role

We’re attending a series of diabetes-focused conferences across Australia, North America and Europe in 2026, including B2B tradeshows, HCP engagement programs, sponsor activations, and expo-floor execution.

We need a problem solver who can own the full delivery cycle: planning, logistics, vendors, production, budgets, and (maybe) on-site execution.

This is a contract / freelance role, hours can be flexible and will be ideally 20+ hours per week until end of January 2026.

You’ll build a repeatable operating model, optimise spend, and ensure each event scales cleanly.

Scope & Responsibilities

• Own end-to-end event operations for 6–12 conferences across NA + EU...and AU
• Build and maintain a global event playbook covering logistics, timelines, vendor matrices, and templates.
• Coordinate venues, AV, staging, registration, catering, expo buildouts, and exhibitor management.
• Develop run sheets, technical cues, floor plans, signage packages, and staffing plans.
• Negotiate vendor contracts across venues, AV, decorators, freight, and equipment.
• Manage sponsor/exhibitor requirements, booth builds, lead scanners, and compliance approvals.
• Oversee production partners and ensure onsite execution meets brand standards.
• Track budgets, reconcile costs, and optimise expense structures across markets.
• Work cross-functionally with marketing, operations, and leadership.

Ideal Experience

• 5+ years in conference operations, trade show management, or pharma/med-device congress execution.
• Strong grounding in vendor negotiation, budgets, and technical production.
• Experience running events across multiple countries.
• Ability to work independently, drive timelines, and manage complex logistics.
• Comfortable working in a high-growth, execution-focused environment.
• Bonus: experience with patient advocacy events or life sciences exhibitions.

Engagement Structure

• Contract / freelance engagement.
• 12–18 month runway aligned to event calendar.
• Combination of monthly retainer + event-based execution fees.
• Remote role with travel for key events.

Who Will Love This Role

• Senior operators who want strategic control without internal bureaucracy.
• Former agency producers looking for autonomy.
• People who enjoy building systems, not just executing tasks.

How to ApplySend your profile or CV along with a short note outlining:

1. Relevant conference experience (include AU/NA/EU if possible).
2. Example events you’ve owned operationally (size, responsibilities).
3. Your location and availability.
4. Expected monthly retainer or day rate.