Sr. Director, Conference Operations

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Full Time Management Washington, DC, US

3 days ago Requisition

Salary Range: $ To $ Annually

AIA will provide you with the opportunity to advocate for the value of architecture and give architects and design professionals the resources they need to do their best work. The collective voice of architects is essential and our work drives positive change through the power of design.

Each one of us at AIA is a leader committed to demonstrating our mission and values and designing a better future for our country and planet. Even in times of change, AIA’s values remain constant:

• We stand for equity and human rights
• We stand for architecture that strengthens our communities
• We stand for a sustainable future
• We stand for protecting communities from the impacts of climate change
• We stand for economic opportunity
• We stand for investing in the future
• We speak up, and policymakers listen

The American Institute of Architects, as part of the global community, is building a culture of equity, diversity, and inclusion within the profession of architecture to create a better built environment for all. Achieving this vision has a direct impact on the relevance of the profession of architecture and the world's prosperity, health, and future.

Reporting to the Managing Director, Events, the Senior Director, Conference Operations leads the operational planning, coordination, and on-the-ground successful execution of the AIA Conference on Architecture & Design, ensuring all aspects of the event are delivered efficiently, effectively, and in alignment with the strategic vision.

The Senior Director leads the development, coordination, and execution of the event across venue, vendor, logistics, and attendee-experience delivery, ensuring that approved events and activities are effectively integrated into the overall conference program. Through strong project management, cross-functional coordination, vendor oversight, and attention to operational detail, this role ensures the conference is delivered on time, within budget, and to a high standard while continuously improving the attendee and stakeholder experience.

• Serve as the operational owner of the event strategy for the conference, translating the conference leadership team’s vision into a long-term, executable plan. This includes identifying innovative solutions and experiences that drive growth in revenue and satisfaction scores while advancing AIA's broader initiatives.
• Work closely with experienced design consultants and internal subject matter experts (SMEs) to identify opportunities for improvement and implement strategies for enhanced attendee experience. Identify and implement event industry best practices with an appreciation for the architecture profession.
• Lead the strategic direction of the annual event request review process: identify gaps in current programming against attendee needs and AIA’s strategic priorities, and determine which events, formats, or topics should be added, refreshed, or prioritized to strengthen alignment with the conference vision. Provide direction and oversight to the Manager, Conference Operations in their day-to-day logistical and administrative execution of the event request process.
• Serve as day-to-day operational lead for primary event vendor relationships, including but not limited to general service contractor, production and audio‑visual supplier, CVB, convention center, housing, shuttle, and other partners, to ensure vendor deliverables meet or exceed contracted terms and…