Convention Manager

Christian Medical & Dental Associations, the world’s largest faith-based organization of healthcare professionals, is seeking a full-time Convention Manager. CMDA’s Convention Manager promotes and advances the mission of CMDA through leading and administrating all facets of the annual CMDA National Convention from conception to completion, plus assisting as needed with other events during the year.

The ideal candidate is passionate, creative, detail-oriented and dedicated to providing superb client service at every turn. This role demands an expert in all aspects of event, meeting and conference planning, including cost containment, venue scouting, equipment logistics, room setup and best practices. This person must also have excellent leadership skills and an ability to meet expectations for quality. The best candidate is an event planner who can lead and manage the daily details while using big-picture thinking to ensure truly unique experiences.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Plan, organize, manage and facilitate all facets of annual CMDA National Convention from conception to completion each year.

• Proactively and strategically plan future events by researching the market, identifying event opportunities and developing new areas for growth and improvement.

• Lead and coordinate planning meetings with other stakeholders to drive the event forward.
• Make site visits, negotiate pricing with venues/vendors and coordinate logistics with venues/vendors, plus develop and manage vendor relationships to serve as the main point of contact.

• Develop comprehensive conference schedules, then coordinate all details related to speakers, lodging/room blocks, meals, meeting accommodations, schedules, etc.

• Assist in preparing budgets, then ensure all events are conducted within budget parameters.
• Manage online registration process for participants, while securely maintaining event and registration data.

• Manage the breakout session schedule and apply for continuing education credits in a timely manner each year.

• Develop and manage relationships with convention exhibitors/sponsors to increase sponsorship revenue, while handling all logistical details related to exhibit hall, sponsorship deliverables and more.

• Work collaboratively across departments within CMDA to promote and publicize the convention through a variety of communication mediums, increasing attendee numbers each year.
• Provide outstanding customer service to members, staff and other stakeholders involved with the convention.
• Act as primary on-site contact at the CMDA National Convention, proactively handling any arising issues, troubleshooting emerging problems and ensuring the event runs smoothly from start to finish.
• Organize a memorable event each year that creates new experiences, brings vision to life, meets expectations and builds momentum for future events.
• Handle all billing and accounting reconciliation needs, both pre-event and post-event.

• Act as on-site contact to manage/schedule the use of CMDA national headquarters building by internal and external groups, maintain master facility calendar, etc.

• Other duties as assigned to ensure fulfillment of CMDA’s mission.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• A vibrant faith and exemplary Christian maturity and witness
• A personal commitment to the Mission, Vision, Values and Statement of Faith of CMDA
• College degree in event management or related discipline, or equivalent work experience
• Proven experience as an event planner or organizer
• Excellent verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills
• Strong organizational skills, analytical skills, attention to detail and keen eye for aesthetics
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively with colleagues
• Ability to multitask and handle the pressure of multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously
• Willingness to learn and utilize membership software
• Understanding of basic accounting procedures and ability to enter data accurately
• Willingness to travel domestically for conferences and site visits multiple times per year