Mission-Driven Conference Coordinator

Acton Institute; Grand Rapids (MI); On-site; USD 55,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Acton Institute in Grand Rapids, MI is seeking a Conference Associate/Coordinator/Manager to manage conferences and high-end events from concept to completion. The role emphasizes logistics, planning, and professional communication with domestic and international participants.

The position is salaried, full-time, based at Acton’s Grand Rapids headquarters, and may be filled at Associate, Coordinator, or Manager level with corresponding scope and compensation adjustments.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree with 2+ years of professional experience planning and coordinating conferences.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills with strong attention to detail.
• Ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple deadlines.
• Customer service experience to support internal stakeholders and event participants.
• Mature, professional demeanor with a collaborative, roll-up-your-sleeves attitude.
• Ability to handle confidential information discreetly and exercise sound judgment.
• Proficiency with MS Office Suite and event management platforms.
• Familiarity with databases such as Swoogo, Salesforce, HubSpot, and Concur is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Assist with planning, coordination, logistics, and execution of multiple conferences.
• Track program processes, deadlines, and generate program reports.
• Coordinate participant and staff logistics including travel, lodging, and meals.
• Manage vendors, budget, and on-site event setup with a team.
• Provide clear communication with domestic and international participants, speakers, and stakeholders.
• Handle conference registrations and respond to inquiries promptly.
• Maintain accurate data in filing systems and reporting tools.
• Plan and monitor project deadlines and program outcomes.

Skills

Planning & coordination

Communication

Attention to detail

Customer service

Teamwork

Discretion with confidential info

Time management

Adaptability

Professional demeanor

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor’s Degree

Tools

Swoogo

Salesforce

HubSpot

Concur

Outlook

Excel

PowerPoint

Publisher

Job description

Acton Institute in Grand Rapids, MI is seeking a Conference Associate/Coordinator/Manager to manage conferences and high-end events from concept to completion. The role emphasizes logistics, planning, and professional communication with domestic and international participants.

The position is salaried, full-time, based at Acton’s Grand Rapids headquarters, and may be filled at Associate, Coordinator, or Manager level with corresponding scope and compensation adjustments.