Associate, Events and Operations

American Bakers Association; Washington (District of Columbia); Hybrid; USD 40,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a dynamic team at a respected nonprofit trade association where your skills in event coordination and office operations will shine. This entry-level position offers a unique opportunity to support a variety of events, from conferences to networking receptions, while also managing day-to-day office operations. You will be instrumental in ensuring that all events run smoothly, providing excellent service to staff and stakeholders alike. With a hybrid work schedule and a commitment to professional development, this role is perfect for someone eager to make a positive impact in the baking industry. Embrace a culture that values respect, integrity, and innovation while contributing to a mission-driven organization.

Benefits

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

Retirement Benefits

Paid Leave

Holidays

Qualifications

• 1-3 years’ experience in a professional office environment, preferably nonprofit.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office required; database experience is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and execute events, ensuring seamless logistics and vendor management.
• Oversee office operations, maintaining a professional image and equipment functionality.

Skills

Analytical Skills

Problem-Solving

Customer Service

Organizational Skills

Attention to Detail

Flexibility

Education

2-4 year degree from an accredited institution

Tools

Microsoft Office (Outlook, Excel, Word)

Database Management

Job description

Tradeshow and Events Senior Professional

The Associate, Events and Operations, is responsible for a range of day-to-day operations and events support activities. S/he works closely with the Senior Director, Events and Programming on the management and upkeep of the ABA office and oversight of vendors, and the Coordinator, Events and Programming on registration and meeting logistics. Further, this role presents ABA in a professional light, providing proactive customer service and support to ABA stakeholders, including staff, members, vendors, and guests.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

Event Functions

1. Support the coordination and execution of association-hosted events, including conferences, seminars, and networking receptions.
2. Assist in scheduling and setting up meeting rooms, A/V equipment, and other resources.
3. Coordinate with external vendors (catering, A/V, décor) and internal teams to ensure all event logistics are executed seamlessly.
4. Assist in the preparation of meeting materials with the Coordinator of Events and Programming.
5. Provide hands-on support during events, including managing check-in, troubleshooting A/V issues, and addressing last-minute needs.
6. Work with building operations staff to ensure the event center is clean, well-stocked, and set up according to event requirements.
7. Help maintain the association’s event calendar, ensuring accurate scheduling and no conflicts between internal and external bookings.
8. Perform administrative tasks related to event planning, such as updating contact databases, tracking expenses, and organizing event documentation.
9. Process weekly deposits/ checks as needed for IBIE, PAC, PEC, and ABA.

Operations Functions

1. Oversee the office reception, kitchenette, conference room, and workroom areas, ensuring all areas present a professional image.
2. Coordinate operational functions for the office, including the phone system, distribution of mail and packages, postage and shipping, ordering of supplies, and serving as the initial liaison with building management.
3. Provide day-to-day oversight of ABA’s computer equipment, including the updating of ABA’s equipment and asset lists.
4. Oversee maintenance of telephone, security, AV systems, and all other office equipment. Troubleshoot and resolve operational issues with appropriate vendors.
5. Serve as an onsite expert for conference room technology and train staff as needed.
6. Implement and maintain ABA’s retention policy and management of electronic and hardcopy files.
7. Collaborate between the Senior Director, Events and Programming, HR Manager and Director of Finance on any onboarding activities related to operation activities.
8. Manage the day-to-day operations of the ABAwear Store front and customer service-related inquiries.
9. Organize full staff activities, including full staff meeting scheduling and agendas and birthday/anniversary recognitions.

SKILLS & REQUIREMENTS

Required Education and Experience

1. 1-3 years’ relevant experience in a professional office environment. Prior experience in a nonprofit and/or association is helpful.
2. Experience with accounts payable, accounts receivable, expense reimbursements, or other accounting functions.
3. A 2–4-year degree from an accredited institution.
4. Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Outlook, Excel, and Word required. Experience working in databases is a plus.
5. Must be able to move boxes and lift up to 25 lbs.
6. Must be able to travel up to three times a year for ABA official events.

Core Competencies/Skills

1. Intermediate analytical and problem-solving skills are needed. A good comfort level with numbers is required.
2. Must be detail-oriented, possess strong organizational skills, be a self-starter and take a pro-active approach.
3. Ability to troubleshoot technology issues at a basic level.
4. Ability to establish and maintain effective and collaborative working relationships with other staff as well as ABA members and stakeholders. Must be a customer-focused, results-oriented team player.
5. Ability to work well under pressure, meet deadlines while making sound decisions, and represent ABA in a positive and professional way.
6. Ability to adapt and be flexible in a dynamic, hybrid work environment consisting of three days in the office, two days remote.

PAY & BENEFITS

This full-time, non-exempt position is eligible for full benefits including health/dental/vision insurance, STD/LTD/life coverages, retirement benefits, and paid leave (vacation/sick/personal) plus holidays. This position is eligible for our hybrid work schedule of 3 days in-office, 2 days remote work. ABA operates on a 40-hour workweek; overtime may be required occasionally.

ABOUT ABA

The American Bakers Association (ABA) is a non-profit trade association that represents the voice of the wholesale baking industry. This is an opportunity to work in a result-oriented, mission-driven environment that empowers staff to creatively carry out responsibilities. ABA has a fun, team-oriented atmosphere and has been selected as a Best Place to Work by the NAM Council of Manufacturing Associations. ABA is an equal-opportunity employer that values diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

ABA Core Values

Respect: We treat our members, and each other with dignity and appreciation.

Integrity: We are committed to honesty, transparency, and accountability.

Excellence: We strive for professionalism and high-value impact.

Empowerment: We celebrate innovation, creativity, and bold ideas.

Service: We focus on uplifting our members and community.

Seniority level: Entry level

Employment type: Full-time

Job function: Management and Manufacturing

Industries: Food and Beverage Services