Director, Events

International Fresh Produce•Newark, DE

1d•Remote

About The Position

The Director, Events leads a team of event professionals 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 support member engagement, deliver insights and networking, and create business connections across the fresh produce and floral supply chains. Working closely with the Chief Strategy and Programs Officer, the Director develops engaging experiences for global attendees, enhances member engagement, recruitment, and retention, and drives revenue growth. The role also works with colleagues across IFPA business units, member committees, external partners, and other stakeholders to coordinate events and advance organizational goals. The Director provides strategic and operational leadership for the event portfolio, including financial projections, budget and revenue oversight, event standards and processes, staff development, venue strategy, contract negotiations, onsite operations, customer service, and evaluation. Business-related travel is required approximately 10 times per year. This is a remote position based within the United States.

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 responsibilities.
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 in a team setting, remain flexible and agile, and meet deadlines.
Excellent interpersonal communication and presentation skills.
Strong analytical and budget management skills.

Nice To Haves

CAE and/or CMP certification.

Responsibilities

Provide leadership that models performance-based strategy and a values-based culture, and contribute to strategic and tactical decision-making.
Provide strategic direction and oversight to member volunteer committees and purpose-driven task forces, as appropriate.
Lead, coach, develop, onboard, and manage the performance of a high-performing team of event professionals.
Develop, implement, and continuously improve event operations standards, policies, procedures, and best practices across IFPA’s event portfolio.
Lead development, design, execution, and evaluation of a comprehensive event portfolio strategy focused on long-term sustainability and financial growth.
Manage event revenue and create and communicate financial projections for event budgets.
Develop internal and external partnerships that leverage shared interests, resources, and mutual benefit.
Collaborate with IFPA colleagues and partners on business cases and recommendations for event investments, enhancements, and growth initiatives.
Serve as a staff liaison for appropriate event-related 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, grow participation, support membership retention, and promote year-round value.
Develop, implement, and evaluate event plans to optimize member value and revenue opportunities.
Oversee event-related projects and customer service, and manage onsite operations of designated events.
Oversee venue selection strategy, contract negotiations, and operational partnerships for the Global Produce and Floral Show.
Collaborate 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 IFPA’s financial growth.
Expand business and personal competencies by attending professional meetings, workshops, and seminars; participate in IFPA staff meetings, committees, and task forces.
Keep current on and apply research concerning industry trends, member needs and interests, and topics relevant to the role.
Participate in strategic initiatives involving ongoing evaluation, evolution, and design of IFPA expos and events.