Program Director - Events

Crawford Thomas Recruiting; New York (NY); On-site; USD 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job description

Director of Recruiting at Crawford Thomas Recruiting

Program Director, Events
Location: New York, NY / Remote (Eastern Time Zone)

Role Overview

The Program Director will be a key member of the Events Team, responsible for curating, developing, and executing high-impact event programs.

Responsibilities

The Program Director will lead content strategy, speaker engagement, and partner activation for multiple annual conferences and executive-level gatherings.

1. Client & Partner Account Management (35%)
   Serve as the primary client-facing liaison for speakers, sponsors, and partners, leading client calls and project management discussions. Manage ongoing partner communications, ensuring sponsors maximize their event participation and engagement. Track and fulfill sponsor deliverables, including speaking opportunities, branding elements, and networking activations. Support post-event partner engagement and retention efforts, focusing on long-term relationship development. Collaborate with the sales team to identify and develop new partnership opportunities from existing event participants.
2. Content Development & Speaker Engagement (35%)
   Lead speaker research, curation, and outreach to secure top-tier industry experts, thought leaders, and executives. Develop compelling and high-impact agendas aligned with client objectives and industry trends. Serve as a trusted advisor to speakers, guiding their event participation and ensuring alignment with program goals. Manage all speaker logistics and communications, including briefings, scheduling, content coordination, and on-site management. Collaborate with marketing and production teams to ensure seamless speaker integration across all event materials and promotions.
3. Event Execution & Operations (20%)
   Oversee end-to-end program execution, ensuring logistical excellence. Lead on-site speaker, client, and sponsor management, ensuring flawless execution during events. Develop and maintain precise event documentation and coordinate with production and marketing teams to ensure smooth program flow. Capture and analyze event feedback, providing insights to optimize future content and engagement strategies.
4. Marketing, Communications & Data Analysis (10%)
   Support the creation of speaker and sponsor communications, event invitations, website content, and promotional materials. Draft event briefing documents for internal and external stakeholders. Track key metrics and insights to measure event success and identify opportunities for improvement.

Ideal Candidate Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, Hospitality/Events, or a related discipline, or equivalent relevant experience. 10+ years of direct experience in event programming and content development, including attendee, speaker, client, and/or partner management. Strong client service mentality, with the ability to build and maintain trusted relationships with executives, partners, and stakeholders. Demonstrated strategic thinking and problem-solving skills to identify issues and develop solutions. Ability to multi-task, execute under tight deadlines, and excel in a fast-paced environment. Exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, and strong analytical, verbal, and written communication abilities. Strong project management skills with the ability to handle multiple priorities and complete large-scale projects from inception to completion. Excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to develop trusting, productive relationships with clients, speakers, vendors, staff, and partners. Proactive team player with a “get things done” attitude and willingness to roll up your sleeves. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word, Outlook); experience with CRM tools (Salesforce), event management software, or content management platforms is a plus. Flexibility to work extra hours and travel as needed. A work “athlete” mindset – someone who is coachable, innovative, adaptable, and focused on continuous improvement. Interest in engaging with leaders, speakers, sponsors, and content related to technology and innovation.

Additional Information:

This role offers opportunities for career growth and professional development within a high-energy, fast-paced environment. The team operates in the Eastern Time Zone, with consideration for virtual work arrangements or NYC-based candidates. Candidates must be authorized for employment in the United States. If you are a dynamic and experienced event professional looking to make a meaningful impact, we encourage you to apply!

Seniority level

• Director

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Management, Strategy/Planning, and Human Resources
• Industries: Strategic Management Services