Conference Manager - Wild Things 2021
Position Description
The Conference Manager, working under the direction of the leadership team, is responsible for the successful planning and execution of the Wild Things Conference which will be held in February of 2023.
The Wild Things Conference aims to provide two products:
• A world-class event that facilitates the dissemination of current best practices in Ecological Restoration and Conservation
• The promotion and development of Volunteerism within the Ecological Restoration and Conservation fields
The Conference Manager is currently the sole, paid position within the Wild Things organization. The position is part-time, hourly and has a term of approximately one year.
The work load in the early months of the job is considerably less than half-time and increases steadily as the event date approaches. The final 2 to 3 months before the event is full-time to over-time. Total employment hours are approximately equal to half-time employment over the course of one year.
The Manager will work remotely with a number of meetings held is locations TBD by the Manager.
This position is paid on an hourly basis and does not provide benefits.
Duties & Responsibilities
- Creation of schedules and budgets in partnership with leadership team and committee heads
- Creation and execution of reporting process to conference leadership and steering committee
- Recruitment, administration and empowerment of volunteer working committees including but not limited to:
• Steering Committee
• Program Committee (content)
• Venue (room layout, way finding signage, AV coord., etc.)
• Food and Drink
• Logistics
• Exhibits
• Sponsorship
• Scholarship
• Tech & IT (Online Registration tool, Online Program tool, Wild Things Community website)
• Ticketing and attendee communications
• Day-Of Volunteer recruitment and logistical leadership
• Communications (graphic and written messaging, program book design & coord.)
• Marketing (media, grassroots & other outlets)
• Registration
- Effective administration of budgets, schedules and work plans resulting in a successful conference
- Management of a post-conference reflection process
Skills & Abilities
Useful skills and abilities for the position include but are not limited to:
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Excellent organizational skills
• Works well with limited supervision
• Inclusive, collaborative and proactive leadership style
• Team player
• Empowers and supports others
• Works well behind the scenes and in the spotlight
• Comfort with limited public speaking
• Digital literacy
• Flexible work schedule
• Diplomatic conflict resolution skills
Experience & Education
• Prior project management experience
• Familiarity with and interest in ecological restoration and conservation
• Familiarity with the Wild Things Conference
