Director, Events

International Fresh Produce • Newark, DE

3d • Remote

About The Position

The Director, Events leads a team of professional event managers and oversees the planning, budgeting, execution, and evaluation of the International Fresh Produce Association’s events. The portfolio includes the annual Global Produce and Floral Show and international events across regions and markets. These events engage members, deliver insights and networking, and support business connections and prosperity across the fresh produce and floral supply chains.

Working closely with the Chief Strategy and Programs Officer, the Director creates engaging experiences for diverse global attendees, enhances member engagement, recruitment, and retention, drives revenue growth, and coordinates event delivery with staff across IFPA business units. The role provides strategic direction for event portfolio development and operations, manages staff, and oversees event planning, onsite operations, venue selection, contracts, partnerships, budgets, revenue opportunities, and evaluation. This is a remote position based within the United States, with business travel required approximately 10 times per year.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Event Management, Planning, Project Management, or a related field, or equivalent work experience.
• At least 7 years of progressively responsible experience leading large-scale conferences, tradeshows, and event portfolios, including budget oversight, staff management, and strategic planning.
• At least 7 years of experience leading and developing professional staff.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, event management systems, Zoom, and Teams; working knowledge of database programs such as Salesforce.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, remain flexible and agile, and meet deadlines.
• Excellent interpersonal communication and presentation skills.
• Strong analytical and budget management skills.
• Ability to travel for business approximately 10 times per year.

Nice To Haves

• CAE and/or CMP certification.

Responsibilities

• Lead, coach, and develop a high-performing team of event professionals; manage performance, onboarding, and staff development.
• Provide leadership aligned with IFPA’s strategy and values, and contribute to strategic and tactical decision-making.
• Provide strategic direction and oversight to member volunteer committees and purpose-driven task forces, as appropriate.
• Develop, implement, and improve event operations standards, policies, procedures, and best practices.
• Lead development, design, execution, and evaluation of a comprehensive event portfolio strategy focused on long-term sustainability and financial growth.
• Manage event revenue and prepare and communicate financial projections for event budgets.
• Develop internal and external partnerships and collaborate on business cases and recommendations for event investments, enhancements, and growth initiatives.
• Serve as staff liaison for appropriate event committees and participate in cross-functional teams and task forces as needed.
• Collaborate with the Director, Trade Show on program evaluation, annual business planning, and budgets.
• Identify and implement business processes and systems that support efficient, effective, high-caliber performance.
• Oversee planning and execution of IFPA events, including the Global Produce and Floral Show, to enhance member experience, participation, retention, and year-round value.
• Develop, implement, and evaluate event plans that optimize member value and revenue opportunities; oversee event-related projects and customer service.
• Manage onsite operations for designated events.
• Oversee venue selection strategy, contract negotiations, and operational partnerships for the Global Produce and Floral Show.
• Work with the VP, Member Engagement and Business Development, Sales Team, and Sponsorship Fulfillment Manager to identify revenue opportunities and set pricing that delivers member value and supports financial growth.
• Attend professional meetings, workshops, and seminars to expand business and personal competencies.
• Participate in IFPA staff meetings, committees, task forces, and strategic initiatives concerning the evaluation, evolution, and design of expos and events.
• Stay current on industry trends, member needs and interests, and relevant research, and apply this knowledge to the role.
• Meet or exceed annual event net revenue targets and support event objectives for member engagement, satisfaction, and IFPA revenue.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director