Reports To: Assistant Vice President, Conference Operations
FLSA Status/Level: Exempt/ Professional
Updated: March 2021
Position Summary:
The Senior Manager, Conference Operations is a key member of the Conference Operations Team and provides guidance and management support of both internal and external meeting functions. This position provides full meeting management responsibilities for internal and external meetings, both live and virtual, from inception to completion, for several conferences and events annually. Position will manage sponsor and exhibitor logistics for assigned conferences. Position will manage the event design process for all assigned conferences and events. Position provides guidance and expertise in site selection, budgeting, meeting logistics, selection and negotiation with vendors, registration, cost control, and billing reconciliation.
Day to Day Responsibilities:
External Meeting Services (75%)
Position is responsible for the management and execution of the Council of Manufacturing Associations Summer and Winter Leadership Conferences, Manufacturing Institute Meetings and Special Events, and other events as assigned by Assistant Vice President, Conference Operations.
Position is responsible for Exhibitor Logistics for the Manufacturing Leadership Councils’ Summit.
Position is responsible for Registration management for all assigned conferences and events, including onsite registration management.
Position is responsible for Speaker Management for all assigned conferences.
Position is responsible for Virtual meeting management to include all logistical and technical aspects of assigned virtual conferences and events.
Position will manage the event design process for assigned conferences and events.
Research, site visitations, and recommendations on meeting destinations, venues and activities that support the conference and event goals and objectives.
Negotiate and manage vendor contracts, vendor performance on site and reconcile and process payments of vendor invoices.
Negotiate meeting space, hotel room blocks and other ancillary services for assigned conferences and events.
Forecast and monitor meeting and event expenditures to stay within or below budget.
Complete post event tasks including reconciliation of expenses, evaluation of vendor services and products, and preparing written evaluations and recommendations.
In-House/Internal Conference Center Services (25%)
Backup support for conferences and events held at the NAM Conference Center.
Management of vendors and temp staff as needed.
The above list of responsibilities is representative of the position and is not intended to limit or preclude other responsibilities and tasks that may be associated with or added to the position.
Supervisory Responsibilities:
No direct reports
Position provides supervision at events/meetings of NAM staff, temps, and vendors.
Qualifications:
Minimum of 5 – 7 years of meeting management experience.
Bachelor’s degree preferred or equivalent work experience.
2-3 years of experience in exhibition management.
Knowledge of CVENT suite of products preferred.
Strong understanding of contractual terms and conditions, including contract negotiations with hotels and vendors.
Ability to coordinate and communicate effectively with staff at all levels.
Ability to manage multiple projects with competing and changing priorities and deadlines.
Supervisory experience of contract personnel.
Ability to travel and work a flexible schedule, including early morning and late evening assignments. Some weekend assignments may be required.
Ability to lift up to 40 lbs.
Organizing resources and establishing priorities.
Computer proficiency with Windows, Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, and Power Point), and the Internet.
Strong project management ability.
Proper food and beverage handling. Training available, if needed.
Must be capable of handling basic facets of the NAM A/V system, including setting up laptops and arranging the necessary cables. Training available, if needed.
Able to operate all existing/new kitchen equipment at NAM Headquarters.
Excellent communications skills, both written and verbal, with strong listening ability.
Strong interpersonal relations.
Attention to detail and high degree of accuracy.
Strong team player and team leader.
Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, quality, and goal driven work environment.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
About National Association of Manufacturers
The National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) is the largest manufacturing association in the United States and one of the nation’s most influential advocates for manufacturing. By joining the NAM, you become part of a spirited and dynamic team that is driven to succeed. We recognize and reward our staff with competitive pay and annual performance-based bonus programs. We offer an outstanding benefits package that includes health, dental, and vision insurance, life, short-term and long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, SmarTrip, and a 401(k) Salary Deferral plan with employer match and contributions, and ample vacation and sick leave. Become part of a fast-paced team passionate about keeping the United States the world leader in manufacturing
