Director, Meetings and Events

Specialty chemistry plays a crucial role in driving technological advancement and enhancing product quality and safety—it impacts every part of our lives, from our personal care products to our electronics and the cars we drive. With over 150 member organizations worldwide, the Society of Chemical Manufacturers & Affiliates (SOCMA) is the leading trade association for specialty chemical manufacturers. As Assistant Director, Meetings and Events, you will oversee the high-level planning and execution of the SOCMA Show (our trade show with over 1,050 attendees and 150 exhibitors), the SOCMA Summit (our conference and annual meeting), and other smaller events like the ESG Workshop. Experiencing developing B2B events is critical for this role. 

Reporting to the Senior Director of Industry Relations, you will supervise one direct report and lead the strategic planning and execution of all meetings and events to enhance value for attendees and increase engagement and retention. Your ability to efficiently direct contract negotiations, timelines, and meeting flow will be essential. This role works across the organization and with external stakeholders and requires accurate and clear communication, strong team leadership skills, and the ability to see multiple projects through to completion with minimal or no errors. 

SOCMA events are essential to support the growth of the specialty chemical manufacturing industry, facilitating valuable exchanges between industry leaders and helping companies navigate the complex regulatory landscape, explore commercial opportunities, and enhance operational safety and efficiency. You will ensure all events meet our high standards of excellence while continually evaluating outcomes to improve future conferences.  

Key Focus Areas  

Strategic Planning and Event Production 

• Oversee and ensure the seamless execution of all aspects of SOCMA and Affiliates meetings and events including virtual. Work closely with the Sr. Director of Industry Relations to ensure programmatic offerings align with industry challenges and trends, increasing visibility and credibility for SOCMA and industry partners.  
• Develop master work schedules and oversee event details, including hotel/convention center specifications, registration processes, audiovisual requirements, timelines, catering, staff schedules and assignments, special events, and security issues.  
• Work along side subject matter expert to develop program and production schedule.  
• Evaluate and implement event technology solutions to ensure an elevated experience for attendees. Ensure tools and platforms support program delivery and attendee engagement. 
• Lead cross-functional teams in the marketing and promotion of events, collaborating closely with the marketing and membership staff to maximize event exposure and participation. 
• Provide on-site support and troubleshooting during events to ensure an exceptional attendee experience. 
• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with industry partners, sponsors, and other key stakeholders to enhance SOCMA's reputation and expand its network. 

Financial Management

• Develop and manage event budgets, ensuring cost-effectiveness and adherence to financial targets. 
• Implement strategies to streamline expense processes and identify areas for potential savings opportunities.
• Utilize advanced analytical skills to assess expenditure patterns and negotiate favorable terms with vendors to achieve cost-effective solutions.

Vendor Management 

• Oversee venue selection, contract negotiation, and vendor relationship management. Liaise with external partners, such as hotels, convention centers, and destination management companies. 
• Ensure compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and industry standards. 

Data Management and Reporting 

• Maintain a comprehensive database to capture and analyze data on meeting participants. Develop a process to leverage attendee feedback and data analytics to measure success. Make suggestions for improvements and implement changes. 
• Prepare and present post-event reports to senior leadership, including attendance figures, financial performance, and key insights.

Team Leadership 

• Mentor and develop staff and provide opportunities for professional development and career growth. Establish clear performance expectations and implement systems of accountability to ensure team members are meeting their goals and contributing to the organization's overall success. 

Work Environment, Salary, and Benefits  

• This position is hybrid in our Arlington, VA, office and requires travel up to 10% for site visits and events. 
• The budgeted salary range for this position is $85-95K with an outstanding benefits package, including medical and dental insurance, short-term and long-term disability, tuition reimbursement, 401k, 10 paid holidays, 2 optional holidays, 10 days leave the first year, sick leave, transportation assistance, and more. 
• SOCMA is a collaborative organization with a high degree of communication, trust, and mutual respect among employees. Your colleagues are professional, committed to their work, respectful, and responsive. 

Qualifications 

• A minimum of 7-10 years of experience in planning and managing conferences, events and trade shows for over 1000 attendees with 3 years of direct supervisory experience.
• Demonstrated experience in event project management, including creating schedules and timelines, complex data collection and tracking, managing deadlines for multiple stakeholders, ensuring compliance with organization regulations, and identifying and resolving logistical issues that may arise before and during the event.  
• This person must have the ability to thrive in fast-paced environment with complex requirements, competing priorities, and last minute changes. 
• This person must be adept at working on multiple projects at once, setting priorities, working independently, problem solving, improvising, and functioning as part of a team that often must perform under pressure. 
• Experience negotiating agreements with a solid understanding of contract terms and conditions. 
• Proficiency in event management software. 
• CMP certification is preferred but not required.