Director, Conferences & EventsIn this role, you will lead the full lifecycle of The Arc's conferences and events-from early planning and venue selection through production, execution, and post-event evaluation. You will:
- Lead the planning and execution of national conferences, events, and meetings, including the Disability Policy Seminar, NCE Summer Leadership Institute, and The Arc's National Convention.
- Manage event timelines, venue selection, site visits, contract negotiations, vendors, budgets, expenses, and on-site operations.
- Oversee the planning and production of large-scale events with 1,000+ attendees, including program design, speakers, audiovisual production, staging, food and beverage, facilities, shipping, sponsorship activities, and special events.
- Create and manage event budgets, including attendance, revenue, and expense projections, and provide timely reporting on event results.
- Partner with teams across programs, public policy, marketing and communications, media relations, development, and other areas to create cohesive and engaging attendee experiences.
- Ensure events are inclusive and accessible by coordinating accommodations and supports such as ASL, CART, braille, large print, dietary and allergy needs, fragrance-free environments, and sensory/quiet spaces.
- Manage event technology and online platforms used for registration, scheduling, calls for proposals, mobile applications, evaluations, and virtual/hybrid event delivery.
- Coordinate event-related travel logistics for staff, including transportation, accommodations, meals, per diem calculations, and on-site schedules.
- Collaborate with sponsorship teams to ensure event deliverables meet sponsor commitments.
- Evaluate events using attendee feedback and other data and recommend improvements that strengthen future experiences.
- Provide logistical support for Board meetings, fundraising events, program events, and internal meetings.
The role currently includes substantial responsibility for event accessibility, budgeting, vendor and contract management, cross-functional coordination, and event technology.
What We're Looking ForThe ideal candidate is a strategic, creative, highly organized events professional who can manage the big picture while maintaining exceptional attention to detail.
Qualifications include:- Bachelor's degree strongly preferred.
- Minimum of 8 years of relevant professional experience, including experience managing multi-day events with more than 1,000 attendees and hybrid events with virtual participation.
- Demonstrated experience managing event budgets and expenses.
- Strong vendor management and contract negotiation skills.
- Excellent project management, organizational, and time-management skills.
- Strong interpersonal and written communication skills.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in fast-paced, high-pressure environments.
- Strong critical thinking, strategic thinking, and crisis-management skills.
- Creative approach to enhancing the attendee experience.
- Ability to collaborate effectively across departments and with employees at all organizational levels, including executives.
- Understanding of audiovisual requirements and event management technology such as Cvent, and Zoom.
- Knowledge of event accessibility practices is a plus.
- Ability to travel periodically for site visits and on-site event support.
- Ability to stand and walk for extended periods during events and lift up to 25 pounds.
These qualifications are consistent with the requirements in the existing job description.
Compensation & BenefitsThis is a full-time, at-will position with a salary range of
$90,000-$120,000, based on education and experience.
The Arc offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health and dental insurance, employer contributions to a 403(b) retirement plan, vacation and sick leave, paid family leave, and additional benefits.
The successful candidate will be expected to work in the office a minimum of
three days per week.
