Manager, Special Events

Conservation International protects nature for the benefit of humanity. Through science, policy, fieldwork, and finance, we spotlight and secure the most important places in nature for the climate, biodiversity, and for people. With offices in 30 countries and projects in more than 100 countries, Conservation International partners with governments, companies, civil society, Indigenous peoples, and local communities to help people and nature thrive together.

POSITION SUMMARY - This position is based in Arlington, VA

The Manager of Special Events plays a key role in support of Conservation International’s special events, with a focus on gala fundraising dinners and Board of Directors meetings.  They also assist in the planning, coordination, and provide logistical support for smaller special events or related cultivation/fundraising functions as directed.  The Manager of Special Events is responsible for tracking event revenue and expenses and provides overall event fiscal oversight.  They work closely with Office of the CEO colleagues and provide administrative support in the coordination and implementation of an annual plan for executive events.

This position demands a high level of organizational skills, keen attention to detail, flexibility in high-stress situations, and the ability to multi-task and work effectively in a fast-paced environment.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assist in the Management of key logistical details for CI’s Board of Directors meetings. Duties include list development, RSVP tracking, hotel room reservations and transportation and meeting-related social events.
• Assist the Senior Director of Special Events in working with the event production team to ensure the smooth execution of all events, including managing pre-event planning efforts.
• Coordinate billings, track revenue, and expenses review monthly reports, and provide summary reports as needed.  Assist with the team’s budgeting process each fiscal year.
• Collaborate with marketing, development, finance, and operations teams to ensure all aspects of assigned events are aligned with event goals and requirements.
• Compile post-event reports and incorporate lessons learned in future events.
• Provides on-the-ground support as needed.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

People and Resource Management Responsibilities

• This position does not directly manage staff.
• Manages an individual budget under the approval of an immediate supervisor.
• May be responsible for managing some public or private funds related to special event functions.

Other duties as assigned by supervisor.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Typical office environment. In-office requirement of 10 days per month.
• The position requires working additional and non-standard working hours.
• Travel for 6+ events/meetings and planning trips per year.  Travel may include 1-2 international trip(s) per year.
• Ability to stand for prolonged periods.

QUALIFICATIONS

Required

• Bachelor’s degree or up to four years of college-level work.
• 2 to 4 years of work experience or similar experience in event management.  
• Demonstrated success in event program development and execution.
• Positive, “can-do” attitude, flexibility, and teamwork; high degree of initiative.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong organizational and multitasking skills.
• High level of attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Experience in reviewing and negotiating contracts.
• Ability and willingness to travel.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred

• Experience with a development database system.

To apply for this position please submit a resume and cover letter.

See all Conservation International Career Opportunities HERE

Conservation International is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all individuals. We believe in hiring based on merit and qualifications, ensuring a fair and inclusive hiring process for everyone.