Conference Chair

Hands Up Communications•Houston, TX

About The Position

The Conference Chair serves as the primary leader and visionary for the Hands Up Conference, responsible for overseeing all aspects of planning, coordination, and execution. The Chair ensures the conference achieves its mission, delivers a high-quality experience for all attendees, and upholds the values and goals of the organization.

Requirements

Demonstrated experience in event planning, project management, or conference leadership
Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills
Ability to lead and motivate a diverse volunteer or professional team
Passion for the mission and values of the Hands Up Conference
Availability to commit sufficient time during the planning period and throughout the event

Responsibilities

Provide overall vision and strategic direction for the conference
Set goals, timelines, and priorities for the planning committee
Serve as the primary decision-maker and point of escalation for conference-related matters
Represent the Hands Up Conference to external stakeholders, sponsors, and the public
Recruit, appoint, and lead subcommittee chairs (e.g., programming, logistics, marketing, sponsorship, volunteers)
Facilitate regular planning meetings and maintain momentum across all teams
Ensure accountability and follow-through on all committee deliverables
Mediate conflicts and resolve challenges within the planning team
Collaborate with the programming committee to develop a relevant, engaging, and impactful conference agenda
Review and approve keynote speakers, session topics, and workshop facilitators
Ensure all content aligns with the mission and theme of the Hands Up Conference
Work with the treasurer or finance team to develop and manage the conference budget
Approve major expenditures and monitor financial performance
Support sponsorship and fundraising efforts as needed
Build and maintain relationships with sponsors, partners, vendors, and community organizations
Serve as the official spokesperson and ambassador for the conference
Engage with past, present, and prospective attendees to gather feedback and build excitement
Oversee on-site operations and serve as the primary point of contact during the event
Welcome attendees, open and/or close the conference, and make key announcements
Ensure a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment for all participants
Conduct a post-conference debrief and lead an evaluation of successes and areas for improvement
Maintain accurate records of meetings, decisions, and key documents
Ensure compliance with organizational policies and applicable regulations
Submit a final post-conference report to the governing board or organization leadership