Director of Global Event Operations

Summary

ACI is hiring a driven and energetic Director of Global Event Operations. Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, this position directs the planning and processes of the global event team for C5.

This role is responsible for the strategic planning and seamless execution of both in-person and virtual events, ensuring exceptional attendee experiences.

The Director will oversee the management of logistics, sourcing and contract negotiation with venues, negotiation with vendors, expansion of the supplier database, and optimization of event expense budgeting and resource utilization.

About ACI :

American Conference Institute (ACI) is devoted to providing the business intelligence that decision makers need to respond to challenges both here in the US, and around the world.

American Conference Institute operates as a think tank, monitoring trends and developments in all major industry sectors, the law, and public policy, with a view to providing information on the leading edge.

Headquartered in New York City, ACI has grown to produce more than 140 events each year, attended by thousands of senior delegates from across the country.

Core Responsibilities

• Lead Global Event Execution : Oversee the planning and delivery of C5's global event calendar, managing budgets ranging from $15,000 to $150,000 on average, with top-tier events reaching over $1 million.
• Enhance Attendee Experience : Develop and customize attendee experiences for each event, with a particular emphasis on creating exceptional experiences in line with the development and launch of a C5 experience commitment.
• Leadership and Team Development : Provide strategic direction, mentorship, and support to key staff members, fostering a high-performing and motivated team.
• Talent Acquisition : Recruit, hire, train and onboard in our remote environment.
• Supplier and Concept Research : Investigate and recommend suppliers, event concepts, and cost proposals, executing approved plans effectively.
• Revenue Support : Design and execute conferences and events that align with industry producers' goals, aiding in achieving revenue targets.
• Budget Management : Ensure financial efficiency by optimizing expenses and negotiating contracts with multiple suppliers.
• Resource Management : Coordinate internal teams, external suppliers, to ensure seamless event execution.
• Marketing and Sponsorship Collaboration : Work with the Marketing Department to attract top clients and with the Sponsorship Department to ensure high exhibitor satisfaction.
• Policy Development : Establish and recommend event policies that comply with regulatory standards.
• Client Service Standards : Ensure that staff maintain high client service levels and relevant industry certifications.
• Brand Consistency : Ensure all events consistently reflect C5's branding and messaging.
• Internal Processes : Evaluate current processes for Events team, develop checks and balances, strive for continuous improvement, efficiencies and evolution of systems.

Manage event calendar & ensure balance of workload amongst event managers.

Additional Duties : Take on other responsibilities as needed based on business requirements.

Core Competencies

Adaptability : Ability to manage shifting priorities and maintain composure in a high-pressure environment.

Time Management : Exceptional skills in organizing and prioritizing tasks to meet deadlines.

Detail-Oriented : Strong attention to detail and thoroughness in follow-up.

Interpersonal Skills : Highly developed communication and relationship-building abilities.

Negotiation Skills : Expertise in negotiating contracts and managing supplier relationships.

Industry Knowledge : Extensive and up-to-date knowledge of event venues, entertainment options, and industry contacts in the GTA, North America, and internationally.

Senior Leadership Interaction : Demonstrates maturity and credibility when interacting with senior leaders, working independently with strong management skills.

Client Service Orientation : A strong focus on delivering excellent client service.

Problem-Solving Ability : Proficiency in addressing and resolving issues under pressure, including time constraints and changing requirements.

Education & Qualifications

Experience : Minimum of 10 years in event planning, including at least 5 years in team management, preferably in a corporate setting.

Contract Negotiation : Recent experience in negotiating and contracting with venues, decorators and AV providers, particularly in a post-COVID environment.

Virtual Event Management : At least 3 years of experience managing event logistics and troubleshooting on virtual platforms.

Educational Background : University degree in business is preferred, with industry-specific certifications such as CMP, CMM, or CSEP.

Team Management : Proven ability to lead and manage a large team of event staff in a dynamic, high-pressure, virtual environment.

Financial Acumen : Strong skills in negotiating contracts up to and above $100,000+ and a solid understanding of accounting principles.

Language Skills : Excellent English writing skills; proficiency in French and Spanish is an asset.

Flexibility and Travel : Willingness to work evenings and weekends and the ability to travel internationally, sometimes on short notice is required.

Equal Opportunities

American Conference Institute (ACI)values the diversity (all the ways in which we are different) of our colleagues. As an equal opportunity employer, we promote this diversity and ensure that persons are recruited, hired, assigned, and promoted without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sexual orientation, sex, veteran's status, age, gender identity, disability, familial status, pregnancy, or any other trait protected by law.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sexual orientation, sex, veteran’s status, age, gender identity, disability, familial status, pregnancy, or any other trait protected by law.