Manager, Covenings Operations and Event Logistics

About Us

Driven by the deep recognition of our impact our organization is growing to meet the need for our work. At IS we are seeking passionate individuals with a deep understanding of the social sector and a commitment to strengthening nonprofit institutions that in turn strengthen our nation. We deeply value and welcome those who bring their whole selves to our this role you will have a unique opportunity to shape the future of our team and our sector. If you are ready to make a meaningful impact drive transformative change and lead with purpose and passion we invite you to join us in advancing this critical mission.

Summary

The Manager Program Operations & Convenings serves as the operational backbone for Independent Sectors programs convenings and events ensuring seamless execution from planning through delivery for our Programs Innovation and Impact department. This role translates programmatic vision and design into high-quality inclusive and well-coordinated experiences by coordinating logistics systems accessibility vendors and on-site operations for IS initiatives. This role will report to the VP of Programs Innovation and Impact. IS currently operates a hybrid model (3 days in office/2 days telework).

Essential Job Functions

• Lead the operational planning and execution of IS convenings and events from concept through delivery ensuring seamless participant experiences aligned with program goals.
• Coordinate event logistics including timelines workplans run-of-show development and cross-functional dependencies.
• Support budgeting vendor invoicing and contract coordination related to program convenings in collaboration with Operations and Finance.
• Serve as the primary internal liaison to external event planning firms and vendors ensuring alignment between program design and vendor execution.
• Coordinate vendors venue logistics and technology platforms for hybrid and in-person events (e.g. AV accessibility services interpretation technology platforms).
• Manage registration processes ensuring accurate data clear communications and effective participant support.
• Oversee on-site operations and event flow monitoring logistics in real time and addressing issues promptly to maintain quality safety and participant experience.
• Ensure ADA multilingual and accessibility considerations are integrated into convening operations in alignment with ISs equity principles.
• Develop and execute detailed run-of-show plans for high-profile events and intensives.
• Implement contingency plans and troubleshoot operational challenges during live events.
• Partner with Program Policy Communications and MEL teams to translate programmatic objectives into executable operational plans.
• Capture operational data for Monitoring Evaluation and Learning (MEL) dashboards to inform continuous improvement.
• Other duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities

None (may oversee temporary staff or volunteers during events).

Experience and Education

• Bachelors degree in event management operations nonprofit management public administration or a related field plus and a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in program operations convenings or event logistics; experience in nonprofit or philanthropic organizations preferred or
• High school diploma or equivalent with a minimum of 7 years of progressively responsible experience in program operations event logistics convenings or large-scale event coordination.

Qualifications

• Strong project management and organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple workstreams deadlines and stakeholders simultaneously.
• Proven ability to translate programmatic goals into operational plans timelines and run-of-show execution.
• Experience coordinating event logistics vendors venues and on-site operations including real-time troubleshooting during live events.
• Familiarity with registration systems event technology platforms and data tracking to support participant experience and operational learning.
• Knowledge of ADA accessibility and inclusive convening practices or demonstrated commitment to learning and applying equity-centered approaches.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate effectively across internal teams and external partners.
• Ability to remain calm flexible and solutions-oriented in fast-paced high-visibility environments.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and the ability to quickly learn new tools and systems.
• Willingness and ability to travel periodically to support convenings as needed.

Work Environment

Hybrid work model with periodic travel for national events. Up to 15% travel required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Physical Demands

• Remaining in a stationary position for extended periods.
• Communicating with others to exchange information.
• Repeating motions like typing or answering a phone.
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs for event setup.

Benefit Offerings

• Medical Plan
• Dental Plan
• Vision Plan
• Flexible Spending
• Accounts (Health and Dependent Care)
• 403(b) Retirement Plan with Generous Matching Program
• Basic and Supplemental Life Insurance
• Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Voluntary Short-Term Disability Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• SmartBenefits Program
• Unlimited PTO
• Family and Medical Leave
• December Holiday Closure
• Summer Fridays
• Monthly Wellness Days
• 10 Holidays
• Hybrid Work Schedule with 2 days remote
• Professional Development Funds
• Regular ongoing social activities-on and off site

The selected candidate will be required to successfully pass a background check.

Required Experience:

Manager