Strategic Events Manager — Conferences & Exhibitions

AIAA; Reston (VA); Hybrid; USD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive healthcare coverage (med

Dental and vision

Generous paid time off includingvac

403(b) retirement plan with up to 5%会社

Disability coverage

Education benefits and professional发展

Hybrid work environment (two in-office

Job summary

AIAA is seeking an experienced Events Manager to lead the planning and onsite execution of conferences, exhibitions, and special events across venues and service providers, interfacing with internal staff and stakeholders.

Reporting to the Vice President, Event Operations, you will oversee onsite operations, manage budgets, and coordinate with venues, AV, catering, and staff to deliver outstanding attendee experiences while traveling as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a related field or equivalent experience.
• 5–7 years of event planning and logistics experience.
• Experience negotiating venue and vendor contracts and managing budgets.
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent communication and problem-solving abilities.
• Association experience and CMP certification preferred.
• Proficiency with Microsoft 365.
• Willingness to travel about five times per year.

Responsibilities

• Plan and execute AIAA conferences, exhibitions, and special events from concept through onsite delivery.
• Source venues, conduct site visits, and negotiate contracts with venues and vendors.
• Manage event budgets, room blocks, and vendor relationships.
• Develop event specifications and coordinate meeting space, audiovisual, catering, signage, and other onsite logistics.
• Partner with staff, volunteers, and stakeholders to create engaging attendee experiences.
• Monitor event operations, troubleshoot issues, and ensure successful execution.

Skills

Exceptional organizational skills

Excellent communication

Problem-solving

Project management

Budget management

Negotiation

Multitasking

Travel readiness

Education

Bachelor's degree in related field

CMP certification (preferred)

Tools

Microsoft 365

Job description

AIAA is seeking an experienced Events Manager to lead the planning and onsite execution of conferences, exhibitions, and special events across venues and service providers, interfacing with internal staff and stakeholders.

Reporting to the Vice President, Event Operations, you will oversee onsite operations, manage budgets, and coordinate with venues, AV, catering, and staff to deliver outstanding attendee experiences while traveling as needed.