Benefits:
Contract to Perm
THIS POSITION IS CONTRACT TO PERM, 40 HOURS/WEEK
Position Overview: The Conference & Events Manager will oversee the planning, execution, and strategic growth of IDA’s premier national conference and other educational events. This role serves as the primary liaison between IDA, an events management company, and key stakeholders to deliver impactful experiences.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities: Event Leadership & Planning
Provide leadership and direction to the event planning/management company in developing comprehensive conference plans.
Assist with logistical planning of special events, workshops, dinners and add-on meetings held during conference events.
Supervise onsite conference operations, delegating tasks to staff, interns, and temporary personnel as needed.
Marketing & Promotion
Develop and implement marketing plan for promotion of annual conferences, including digital and print materials, social media, and other channels.
Sponsorships & Partnerships
Identify and cultivate relationships with potential sponsors and partners.
Strengthen partnership opportunities by enhancing partner programs and benefits.
Oversee the management of exhibit vendors and sponsors to ensure successful participation.
Event Platforms & Systems Management
Oversee all event platforms, including the event website, online registrations, exhibitor/sponsor platform, and speaker platform.
Streamline platform processes to improve efficiency and attendee experience.
Oversee the Call for Papers process, including system oversight, promotion, review, selection, and notifications.
Collaborate with the Conference Committee to select and confirm sessions and speakers for conferences.
Event Logistics & Operations
Assist with the logistical planning of special events, workshops, dinners, and add-on meetings during conferences.
Coordinate with vendors on aspects of conference planning, including RFPs, contract negotiations, and vendor management (e.g., exhibitors, sponsors, convention bureaus, floor plans)
Oversee room assignments for sessions, meetings, and functions, including signage and on-site support.
Supervise on-site conference operations, delegating tasks to staff, interns, and temporary personnel as needed.
Travel as needed to co-manage and support in-person event logistics.
Program Development & Coordination
Oversee the development of event programs and guides, including pre-show coordination, BEOs, websites, and registrations.
Manage the process for continuing education credits (CEUs) in collaboration with accreditation organizations such as ASHA and VCU.
Branch & Stakeholder Collaboration
Support local branches with guidance, ideas, and logistical advice to enhance branch engagement during conference events.
Coordinator with the Executive Team on event budgets to ensure financial sustainability and alignment with organizational goals.
Policy & Process Improvement
Regularly review and update conference guidelines to incorporate best practices and lessons learned.
Spearhead post-conference team/vendor SWOT analysis.
Other Duties
Assist with other projects and duties as assigned to support IDA’s mission and events.
Experience, Skills and Additional Requirements:
Bachelor’s degree in Event Management, Hospitality, or a related field.
5+ years of experience in event planning and management, preferably in a nonprofit or educational setting.
CMP (Certified Meeting Professional) designation preferred, but not required.
Exceptional written and oral communication skills.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
Proficiency with event management software and tools is a plus.
Experience with Oxford Abstracts and other event management platforms preferred.
Flexible work from home options available.