Program Manager

Associated Equipment Distributors; Schaumburg (IL); On-site; USD 55,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Associated Equipment Distributors (AED) in Schaumburg, IL seeks a Program Manager to plan and execute conference programming and events for AED members, including content development, speaker coordination, and logistics. You will lead peer group education events and coordinate with internal teams, sponsors, and external planners to deliver engaging sessions and a seamless attendee experience.

Travel up to 25% may be required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.
• 2+ years of experience in conference planning, program development, or event management.
• Strong project management skills with the ability to multitask and meet deadlines.
• Travel up to 25% for events and conferences.

Responsibilities

• Develop conference content and identify speakers, panelists, and moderators for AED conferences and the AED Summit.
• Coordinate speakers and moderators for association conferences and other events.
• Collaborate with internal teams, sponsors, and partners to enhance programming and member experience at events.
• Oversee event logistics, including venue coordination, AV requirements, and session planning for conferences and Summit education breakout sessions.
• Coordinate with outside meeting planners to develop and manage event timelines and deliverables.
• Work with marketing and communications teams to promote events and maximize attendance.
• Collect attendee feedback to improve future events.
• Other duties as assigned.
• Plan and execute meetings and events for association peer groups and education programs (Leadership Development Institute, Dealer Performance Group, HR Peer Group, Finance Peer Group).
• Develop agendas and discussion topics; coordinate logistics for virtual and in-person meetings.
• Facilitate connections and engagement among group members.

Skills

Project management

Communication

Relationship-building

Time management

Education

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience

Tools

Event registration software

Job description

Program Manager

Location:Schaumburg, IL

Position Type:Full-Time, Exempt

Salary Range:$55,000 – $65,000

Position Overview

The Program Manager is responsible for planning and executing high-quality conference programming and events that engage and educate AED members. This role oversees the development of conference content, speaker coordination, and event logistics to ensure a seamless experience. Additionally, the Program Manager will lead the planning and execution of events related to association peer groups, fostering meaningful networking and collaboration opportunities.

Key Responsibilities

Conference Programming & Event Management

• Develop compelling conference content that aligns with industry trends and member needs
• Identify, recruit, and coordinate speakers, panelists, and moderators for association conferences and other events, including the annual AED Summit
• Collaborate with internal teams, sponsors, and partners to enhance programming and member experience at conferences and events
• Oversee event logistics, including venue coordination, AV requirements, and session planning for conferences and Summit education breakout sessions
• Collaborate with outside meeting planner to develop and manage event timelines, ensuring all deliverables are met
• Work with marketing and communications teams to promote events and maximize attendance
• Collect and analyze attendee feedback to improve future events
• Other duties as assigned

Peer Group/Education Event Coordination

• Plan and execute meetings and events for association peer groups and education programs, including but not limited to the Leadership Development Institute, Dealer Performance Group, HR Peer Group, and Finance Peer Group
• Develop agendas and discussion topics that align with peer group interests
• Coordinate logistics for virtual and in-person group meetings
• Facilitate connections and engagement among group members
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications & Skills

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience
• 2+ years of experience in conference planning, program development, or event management
• Strong project management skills with the ability to multitask and meet deadlines
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
• Experience working with speakers, vendors, and event partners
• Ability to travel as needed for events and conferences (up to 25%)

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in association or trade organization event management
• Familiarity with event registration and management software
• Knowledge of industry trends and best practices in professional conferences and peer group facilitation

About AED

Associated Equipment Distributors (AED) is an international trade association representing companies involved in the distribution, rental and support of equipment used in agriculture, construction, forestry, mining, power generation, rental, cranes, material handling, and other industrial applications. AED serves:

• Independent distributors that sell, rent, and provide aftermarket support for industrial equipment and related products
• Manufacturers of industrial equipment and related products
• Suppliers of business services, including finance, insurance, business systems/ERP and other services