Volunteer - Annual Meeting Helper

Job title: Volunteer - Annual Meeting Helper

Location: Edinburgh International Conference Centre (EICC)

Duration: Monday 15th - Thursday 18th December

Application closing date: Monday 1st September 2025
Please note we reserve the right to close this vacancy subject to a high volume of suitable applications.

About us

The British Ecological Society (BES) was the first ecology society established worldwide, and we now serve over 7,000 members across 125 countries. We promote the study of ecology and support our community through various initiatives, including conferences, educational programs, and publishing.

About the role

As a Volunteer Annual Meeting Helper, you will play a vital role in supporting the delivery of our flagship Annual Meeting. Our meeting this year takes place at the EICC in Edinburgh, from Monday 15th - Thursday 18th December. This is a fantastic opportunity to gain experience in event organisation and to connect with ecologists from around the world. In this hands-on volunteer role, you will assist with various tasks, ensuring that the event runs smoothly and efficiently.

Your responsibilities may include:

• Setting up and dismantling the venue before and after the event
• Assisting with registration and welcoming delegates
• Guiding participants and providing information during the conference
• Supporting speakers by managing presentation sessions
• Helping to maintain a friendly and inclusive environment throughout the event

What’s in it for you?

In return for your time and commitment, you will receive first-hand experience of event management, as well as the opportunity to meet and network with professionals in the field of ecology. You will also receive a certificate of participation after the event, recognising your time and contribution. Successful applicants are asked to pay a concession rate, which will be reimbursed after the event. Annual Meeting Helpers will typically work for 50% of the event duration, and we will endeavour to schedule shifts so that you can attend specific activities, webinars, and workshops where possible.

What we're looking for

• Enthusiasm for ecology and conservation
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to work as part of a team
• Flexibility and adaptability to meet the needs of the event
• Willingness to commit to the full duration of the Annual Meeting - you will only be required to work for 50% of this time

Volunteering with BES is a great way to gain experience in the ecology sector while contributing to an important event. We encourage individuals from diverse and underrepresented backgrounds to apply.

To apply

• Click 'apply for this job' below to upload your CV and answer some short questions on why you want to volunteer at this year's annual meeting and what you'd like to get out of the experience. The form will not autosave, and we recommend preparing your answers separately so you do not lose any work.
• Applicants are required to download, read, and sign the Code of Conduct. You can upload your signed copy at the end of the application form.
• After you have submitted your application, you will be invited to complete our equity, diversity, and inclusion form. This has no bearing on your application. The data remains confidential, and will only be used to help us produce annual anonymised reports on our progress in advancing equality and diversity.