Director of Conferences & Events

The Arc of the United States•Washington, DC

10d•$90,000 - $120,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The Arc of the United States is seeking an experienced and dynamic Director of Conferences & Events to lead the planning and execution of our national conferences, meetings, and events. This is an exciting opportunity for an accomplished events professional who thrives on bringing complex, high-impact experiences to life. The Director will oversee The Arc's major national events, including our National Convention with more than 1,000 attendees, and will partner across the organization to deliver engaging, accessible, and high-quality experiences for attendees, sponsors, exhibitors, and partners.

Requirements

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.
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.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of event accessibility practices is a plus.

Responsibilities

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.