KAP 2026-2027 Conference Operations Specialist Cato Institute

About Cato

The Cato Institute is a public policy research organizationa think tankdedicated to the principles of individual liberty limited government free markets and peace. Its scholars and analysts conduct independent nonpartisan research on a wide range of policy issues.

Founded in 1977 Cato owes its name toCatos Letters a series of essays published in 18th-century England that presented a vision of a society free from excessive government power. Those essays inspired the architects of the American Revolution. And the simple timeless principles of that revolution individual liberty limited government free markets and peace animate Catos research to this Cato Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Position Overview

The Cato Institute a non-profit public policy research foundation headquartered in Washington DC seeks a Conference Operations Specialist to support the operations and administrative responsibilities for a variety of events managed by the Conference Team. This role includes managing the following responsibilities across 20 events: creating key event planning documents printing key event materials overseeing supplies inventory and coordinating shipments. This role will also provide on-site support for events held at Cato and throughout the country. This position is ideal for a detail-oriented proactive professional who thrives in a fast-paced event-driven environment.

This is a hybrid position in Washington DC.

Responsibilities

• This position collaborates closely with multiple members of the Conference team to manage and execute the processes associated with the responsibilities outlined below across multiple events.

  • Create key event documents which include registration websites catering documents audio-visual run of shows timelines to upload to the project management system and shipping lists.
  • Manage the Conference department supplies which include supply ordering and inventory management arranging and overseeing shipping to events and returning to inventory received shipments.
  • Produce printed materials (including but not limited to badges rosters and place cards) and ensure their accuracy.
  • Continuously update long-standing department event management records.
  • Administer vendor payments and budget reconciliations.
  • Provide additional assistance to the Conference Team as needed.
  • On-site support for in-person events in Washington DC and throughout the country.

Education and Experience

• A bachelors degree.
• 2 years of events experience.
• Demonstrated success in managing multiple projects at one time.
• Demonstrated history of success in managing inventory and supplies.
• Project management experience is a plus.
• Knowledge of EMS Social Tables and Swoogo is a plus.
• An understanding of libertarian principles and Catos mission is preferred.

• Capable of effectively working in a fast-paced environment and meeting deadlines; manages time without constant supervision.
• Proactive and stay informed regarding upcoming tasks; easily adapts if the project changes scope.
• Highly effective communication and collaboration skills paired with exceptional attention to detail quality and accuracy.
• Organized enthusiastic efficient and committed personality able to work
  independently and collaboratively.
• Strong customer service skills with a positive can-do attitude.
• Positive and professional demeanor at all times while working with staff vendors and attendees.
• Position requires 20% travel throughout the year and may increase.

To Apply

Please submit the following materials in one PDF file:

• CV/Resume
• Cover Letter/Intro Email confirming thatthis is a hybrid position located in Washington DC and you able to commit to working at least 3 days per week at the headquarters.
• Two work samples (original data analyses research reports working papers peer-reviewed articles dissertations data memos blog posts etc.).