Director of Events

Position Summary The Director of Events is responsible for overseeing AEE's global events portfolio, including large-scale conferences both internationally and in the U.S. This role leads the Events Department, drives event strategy and financial performance, and ensures scalable systems and operational excellence across all event initiatives. The Director of Events serves as a key leader within the organization, partnering cross-functionally with Membership, Marketing, Finance, Training, and Executive Leadership to align events with AEE's growth strategy and global mission.

This role requires both visionary thinking and disciplined execution.

Key Responsibilities Department Leadership and Strategy Team leads for the Events Department. Set and manage strategy for all AEE Events. Establish and monitor SMART goals aligned with organizational priorities. Oversee staffing, hiring, onboarding, performance management, and team development. Address performance issues and implement disciplinary actions when necessary. Manage comprehensive event budgets, including oversight of exhibitor and registration costs. Build scalable processes and systems that support sustainable growth.

Foster strong cross-departmental collaboration and communication. Conference and Tradeshow Strategy Lead end-to-end strategy and delivery of AEE's conference portfolio, including AEE World, U.S. regional events, and international conferences. Partner with executive leadership to evaluate and select optimal event locations, markets, and growth opportunities. Develop long-range event calendars and expansion strategies. Lead contract negotiation and vendor management for venues, convention centers, hotels, and service providers.

Ensure exceptional experiences for attendees, exhibitors, and sponsors. Represent AEE at site visits and provide executive-level onsite leadership (approximately 4-6 weeks of travel annually). Oversee virtual conference events if necessary. Financial Oversight Own the financial performance of the events portfolio Monitor profitability, cost control, and forecasting. Collaborate with Accounting to ensure accurate reporting and financial transparency. Identify opportunities to increase event revenue and long-term portfolio sustainability.

Event Technology and Operations Lead event technology, including registration systems, exhibitor fulfillment, and speaker portals. Cross-Function Collaboration Partner with Marketing on event promotion strategy and campaign execution. Collaborate with Membership to align events with member engagement and retention goals. Work closely with Certification and Training teams to integrate training programs into events. Qualifications 10+ years of experience in events, including 3+ years in a leadership role.

Demonstrated success leading large-scale, multi-day conferences and trade shows. Proven ability to manage budgets. Experience overseeing event technology platforms (registration, event apps, exhibitor systems, virtual/hybrid platforms). Strong vendor negotiation and contract management experience. Experience leading cross-functional collaboration across departments. Excellent communication, decision-making, and organizational leadership skills.

Preferred Qualifications Experience managing international or multi-location events. Experience in association or nonprofit environments. CMP, CEM, or related industry certification. Data-driven mindset with experience leveraging KPIs and reporting to guide decisions. Work Environment On-site Candidates must have valid U.S. work authorization Physical Demands This position will be performed on-site at the AEE office in Atlanta, GA. The physical demands outlined below represent the requirements necessary to successfully perform the essential duties of the role.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions. Extended

Work Hours:

Due to the nature of the role, working more than 35 hours per week may be necessary to meet job responsibilities. Flexibility for occasional evening and weekend work may be required, particularly during events. Physical Demands:
The role may involve occasional lifting of up to 30 lbs. Other physical tasks may be required based on the needs of the position. The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees in this position. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or physical demands associated with the role.

Additional tasks may be assigned as needed, with reasonable accommodation available for individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. Travel Requirements Travel may be required up to 5% of the time for this role. Modes of transportation include air, car, and rail. Equal Employment Opportunity Policy AEE provides equal opportunity in all our employment practices to all qualified employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion,…