ASE Conference is a flagship event every January for professional learning and networking. To keep the event fresh and relevant for members requires inputs from across membership and is coordinated by the Honorary Conference Secretary.

This post has been very successfully held by Professor Chris Harrison, who will be delivering her fifth and final ASE Annual Conference in January 2025.

We are seeking a dedicated and creative individual to take over the role and work with the ASE team and Conference Organising Group to deliver ASE’s conference in 2026. Ideally the role holder will be available from October onwards and at Conference in January 2025 to shadow the current Conference Secretary.   

Honorary Annual Conference Secretary 

The Conference Secretary is an honorary appointment. 

The Conference Secretary chairs the Conference Working  Group (CWG) which meets at least 6 times per year.  

The criteria for the appointment are as follows: 

• Open to any member of the Association  who has an interest in professional learning and science education with an interest in all sectors

• Will suit someone who has attended several ASE Annual Conferences and has, perhaps, been involved in the organisation of them at region level or for other organisations. 

• The main purpose of the post is to monitor and find ways of enhancing the quality of members’ experience at the Annual Conference. This might include suggestions for or sourcing presenters for panels and keynotes through liaison with Committee chairs  and the CWG.

• Involves travelling to future venues of the Conference, liaising with Region Committees, ASE Chairs and working alongside Annual Conference staff at Headquarters. 

• An unpaid position, but all expenses are reimbursed. 

• Has a five-year period of office – but this can be shortened to three years if requested
• This post can be applied for via email and a decision on the candidate is made by the Trustees. 

Responsibilities

• Chair and communicate with Conference Working  Group (CWG)

• Work closely with the CWG , Operations Team and Events Manager to  shape the programme for Annual Conference.  

• Lead discussions on themes, keynote speakers and support the Events Manager to identify venues, sponsors, partners and keynotes.  

• Visit venues and support the Events Manager is scoping out room plans and agendas 

• Attend Conference and with the Chair Trio and act spokesperson for Conference enquiries, meet special guests and key sponsors, keynotes etc.  

• Provide a short report on Conference to Education Group and the AGM 

To apply please send an email to lynnladbrook@ase.org.uk outlining your interest and suitability for the role, before 2nd September 2024.