USSOCOM J3-I Conference Planner SME

The Ascendancy Group; Tampa (FL); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

The Ascendancy Group is looking for an experienced professional to lead event planning for SOF Week, managing key international engagements and collaborations. You will be responsible for ensuring flawless execution of high-profile multinational events.

Ideal candidates should possess a Bachelor's degree in business administration, proven leadership skills, and experience with government or military organizations. Strong organizational and communication skills are crucial for success in this role.

Qualifications

• Experience working with government agencies or military organizations.
• Proven experience in event planning, project management, or operations leadership.
• Familiarity with Special Operations Forces or similar military communities is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage a comprehensive plan for SOF Week activities.
• Coordinate with internal teams and external partners.
• Oversee venue logistics, vendor contracts, and event-related services.
• Lead a cross-functional team to execute SOF Week activities.
• Analyze the success and impact of SOF Week events.

Skills

Event planning

Leadership

Communication

Organizational skills

Project management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in business administration, management, or a related field

Job description

Description

The Ascendancy Group’s Mission

To be the unequaled provider of special operations forces (SOF) and Intelligence Community focused technical, service, and training-based solutions.

This position is contingent upon contract award

Overview

The Ascendancy Group is seeking experienced professionals to support the USSOCOM Directorate of Operations (J3), J3-International (J3-I) Division, in advancing collaboration, interoperability, and strategic engagement across the global Special Operations community. J3-I strengthens alliances, enhances multinational readiness, and supports USSOCOM’s network of Special Operations Liaison Officers while integrating insights from Allied and Partner Nation SOF into enterprise planning. This effort directly contributes to the development of an international SOF Common Operating Picture and enables partners to deter in competition, respond in crisis, and prevail in conflict. Team members will play a key role in supporting international engagement programs, managing strategic relationships, and ensuring world-class support to international SOF representatives assigned to USSOCOM.

In support of the International Division, this role leads the planning and coordination of major events such as SOF Week and the SCAF Conference, ensuring all logistical, operational, and collaborative efforts run seamlessly. The role requires a proactive, highly organized planner who can manage complex timelines, synchronize inputs across multiple stakeholders, and deliver flawless execution of high-profile multinational engagements.

Security Requirement

• Active Secret clearance

Roles and Responsibilities

• Develop and manage a comprehensive plan for SOF Week activities, ensuring milestones and deadlines are met.
• Coordinate with internal teams, external and international partners, and stakeholders (TSOCs, Components and HQ Staff) to develop a seamless schedule of events.
• Oversee venue logistics, vendor contracts, and other event-related services.
• Lead a cross‑functional team to execute SOF Week activities, providing clear direction and support.
• Delegate tasks effectively while monitoring progress and performance.
• Serve as the principal point of contact to communicate updates and address challenges.
• Ensure all activities are aligned with the overall objectives of SOF Week, maintaining a focus on quality, security, and impact.
• Anticipate and manage risks, developing contingency plans where necessary.
• Collaborate with military, government, and civilian stakeholders to coordinate participation and support.
• Foster positive relationships with all parties involved, ensuring their needs and objectives are addressed.
• Analyze the success and impact of SOF Week events, creating reports and insights to inform future planning.
• Gather and incorporate participant feedback for continuous improvement.
• Consolidate due outs, conduct operational planning teams with SOF Enterprise, track and oversee any due outs owed to (A/PN from creation, through signature until delivery.
• Perform close‑out and escort duties as part of the Division’s Security Procedure.

Position Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, management, or a related field.
• Experience working with government agencies or military organizations.
• Proven experience in event planning, project management, or operations leadership.
• Strong leadership abilities with the capacity to motivate and manage a team.
• Exceptional organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
• Outstanding verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively engage diverse audiences.
• Familiarity with Special Operations Forces or similar military communities is highly desirable.
• Knowledge of budgeting, logistics, and risk management principles.
• Ability to think critically under pressure and adapt to dynamic challenges.