Name: Amy Buttery
Position: National Conference Operations Manager
What has been your career history? I started out in events 14 years ago working in London universities, organising everything from corporate events to open days and student graduations. Whenever a new building opened a member of the Royal family attended, so I have coordinated visits from Princess Anne and Queen Consort Camilla amongst others. When I moved to Australia eight years ago, I started working in the conferencing space and haven’t looked back since!
What are some career highlights? My favourite thing about working in events is that we get to experience once in a lifetime opportunities, working with inspirational people in incredible locations across Australia and internationally. No two days are ever the same! A recent highlight was Sydney WorldPride Human Rights Conference in March last year, which put a huge amount of thought towards inclusion, accessibility and sustainability – all causes I am very passionate about. But honestly, they all stand out for different reasons because all events are so different, which is what keeps this job so interesting!
What do you enjoy most about planning conferences? To be successful in event management you have to be comfortable with juggling multiple things at any one time, and I quite like that challenge! You can start the day preparing a bid budget and then next minute you’re looking at options for gala dinner theming, checking in with program speakers/MCs or evaluating the success of a strategic marketing campaign. All with tight deadlines and multiple stakeholders to involve. A single decision you make on one component can potentially impact multiple other people and teams, so you always need to think of the bigger picture which is all part of the juggling.
What attitude do you need for working in event management? Being calm under pressure – you need to be able to respond calmly and rationally when you’re faced with a difficult decision or when something is unravelling. I like to think I am usually cool, calm and collected – at least on the surface!
What tips do you have for delegates attending a conference?
- Download the dedicated event app so you have all of the event information up to date, and so you can start planning your attendance in advance and networking with other attendees.
- Try and connect with people while you’re there. Some people will use lunchtimes to go to meetings or take calls, but networking with other delegates or sponsors or exhibitors is so valuable. We’re noticing that networking is becoming just as important as the event’s program – so make sure you’re making the most of both.
- Provide feedback. Complete the surveys, or if you notice something during the conference, don’t wait until the event finishes; tell us when you’re there so we can improve your onsite experience.
What are your must-have items while onsite? I never go onsite without a pair of scissors (handy in a multitude of situations) a tennis ball for sore feet at end of day (try it if you haven’t already!) and of course, an extra hot coffee at the morning is non-negotiable.
Favourite travel destination?
We are very lucky to see some amazing locations when we travel for events – but it’s hard to get past Italy. Delicious pasta and beautiful coastlines – what’s not to love!