Manager, Events and Programming

SUMMARY

The Manager, Events and Programming works as a member of the ABA Events and Programming team, providing extensive operational support of ABA’s events, executive programming and exposition services. He/she will play a central role in increasing engagement by members in ABA’s events through strong leadership, project management, and logistical planning. The position will also oversee registration processes at a high level, ensuring accuracy, efficiency, and a positive participant experience.

While the Associate, Events and Programming does not report directly to this position, the Manager will work closely with the Associate to ensure seamless coordination across projects and responsibilities. The role requires strong self‑direction, keen attention to detail, the ability to independently research solutions to problems, and follow technical procedures successfully.

• Manage logistics for all ABA member engagement events, including the Annual Convention, ABA Professionals Group events, Annual Congressional Fly‑In, and other meetings/programs, in conjunction with the Senior Director of Events and Programming. Responsibilities include housing, AV, F&B, vendor management, venue operations, transportation, onsite logistics, and post‑event evaluations.
• Lead planning and execution of Professionals Group virtual events and standalone ABA webinars, collaborating with ABA Marketing and Government Affairs teams.
• Oversee logistics for in‑office and small‑scale member events, including reservations, meal planning, and event‑day operations, in conjunction with the Associate, Events and Programming.
• Provide support for activities associated with the International Baking Industry Exposition (IBIE), including the Corporate Meeting Program, ABA‑BEMA booth activities, Global Baking Night, ABA education sessions, and other related projects.
• Work closely with the Senior Manager of Events and Programming on all speaker‑related activities, including recruitment, communication, scheduling, and onsite coordination, ensuring alignment with content and program goals.
• Partner with Membership and Marketing and Communications teams on event promotion, communications, and materials.
• Serve as a primary point of contact for escalated member inquiries regarding events, ensuring resolution in a timely and professional manner.
• Support sponsor and partner fulfillment by ensuring contractual recognition and benefits are executed.
• Track budgets, process invoices, reconcile financials, and prepare monthly reporting in collaboration with the Finance team.
• Produce and oversee thank‑you communications for speakers, vendors, and VIPs, in coordination with the Senior Manager of Events and Programming.
• Maintain event timelines and project plans to ensure accountability and timely execution of deliverables.

• Must have 1–2 years of experience with the Cvent registration platform.
• 4–6 years of experience in association, hotel, or corporate event planning and logistics. Experience in a non‑profit or association environment is strongly preferred.
• BA or BS in business, hospitality, or a related field.
• Proven experience managing complex event logistics, vendor relationships, and onsite operations.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Excel, Outlook and Planner.
• Experience with databases and/or Association Management Systems (AMS).
• Knowledge of virtual meeting platforms such as Go To Meeting /Go To Webinar  and Microsoft Teams.
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs. and travel domestically 3–4 times a year as needed.

• Excellent customer‑service ethic and responsiveness, someone who is willing to do what it takes to get the job done.
• Ability to work well under pressure, meet deadlines while making sound decisions, and represent ABA in a positive and professional way.
• Ability to work collaboratively as well as independently. A team player who is objective and open to others’ opinions.
• Strong comfort level with new technologies and is forward thinking in terms of technology deployment.
• Intermediate analytical and problem‑solving skills are needed. A good comfort level in working with numbers and data sets.
• Excellent organizational skills. Must be detail‑oriented and a strong multi‑tasker.
• Ability to adapt and be flexible in a dynamic, hybrid work environment. Ability to work effectively with occasional interruptions, handle frequently changing priorities, and manage unscheduled tasks with accuracy.