Oversee logistics for 2-3 multi-day, multi-venue hybrid summits and events which may include Storytellers Summit, Explorers Festival and International Explorers Festival.
Act as liaison to the production agency to bring together appropriate audiences for production plans and approvals.
Manage additional high profile events as needed throughout the year for priority audiences including, receptions, dinners, film screenings, meetings and gatherings.
Coordinate plans across planning and execution teams ensuring that all elements adhere to the NGS brand, meet the Society's standards and expectations and consider all audience needs and activities in addition to budget and meeting planning best practices.
Coordination of logistics for events as needed which will vary but may include venue, hotel, AV, catering, content production, copy development, environmental fabrication, transportation, travel and printing.
Steward budget compliance focusing on clear tracking, efficient spending and thoughtful allocation of resources.
Work with legal and finance to process contracts and payments for vendors as needed.
Create and implement staffing plans, volunteer schedules and training programs.
Source and Negotiate contracts for venues and vendors using formal and informal RFP processes.
Facilitate meetings internally and externally - building agenda's, taking thorough notes and leading discussions with stakeholders across the organization.
Support travel needs and communication for cohorts of Explorers, speakers and VIP's.
Internal and Stakeholder Alignment (20%)
Build strong relationships across the society to foster trust and collaboration. Develop working knowledge of the Society's mission and each division's priorities.
Oversee communication across the planning teams to share information and support the team.
Manage internal stakeholders that host elements of each event; tracking and fulfilling their needs, aligning expectations across the society and supporting each group's needs for shared success through thoughtful execution.
Develop concise briefing documents and presentations for Senior Leadership, attendees, partners, sponsors and Staff
Brief stakeholders on key event updates, changes and insights throughout the planning process.
Participate in planning team meetings and pre-event briefings.
Work with vendors to identify clear and efficient processes that result in successful engagements.
Filter clear communication between internal stakeholders, vendors and departmental leadership.
Departmental Management and Support (20%)
Provide backup support to the team managing Swoogo and overseeing the registration process.
Work with marketing and registration specialists to implement promotion strategy.
Represent the signature events team on Global Special Events working groups.
Requirements
Educational Background
Bachelor's degree preferred
Minimum Years and Type of Experience
7+ years experience with in-person meeting or event planning, or relevant experience at a non profit or mission driven organization.
Necessary Knowledge and Skills
Ability to build strong working relationships and foster trust with team members and vendors
Effective written and oral communication skills; proven ability to communicate clearly and concisely to varied audience types in meetings and at events.
Benefits
Vision insurance
Additional Information
How You'll Contribute
The Advancement team cultivates, solicits, and stewards individuals, as well as foundation, government and corporate partners who invest in the Society to drive impact through science, technology, education, exploration, and storytelling. The team collaborates with Society teams - and often works closely with NGP/Disney - to build transformative and impact-driven strategic partnerships. The team also produces global events that deepen connections and leverage the Society's power to convene, and directs robust annual, major and planned giving programs empowering the Society with a broad base of public support.
The Global Special Events team of the National Geographic Society is responsible for developing and producing high quality, impactful events that use the power of convening to drive programmatic outcomes, further visibility for our executives, programs, sponsors and Explorers, and build donor loyalty and philanthropic support.
The Senior Manager, Signature Events is responsible for the program management of The Society's Signature Events portfolio. This role will work closely with our agency partners and stakeholders from across the Society to produce the Society's largest events and experiences that bring our mission to life and connect our Explorers, donors, staff and partners in new and meaningful ways. Additionally, The Senior Manager will also be responsible for creating cross functional collaboration to ensure a cohesive, high quality event experience and measurable impact against the Society's mission.