Lead Conference and Event Support Specialist

We are seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented Lead Conference and Event Support Specialist who is responsible for the day-to-day coordination and technical support of conference rooms meeting spaces and event facilities. This role plays a critical part in ensuring seamless scheduling setup technology readiness and customer service for both internal and external events hosted at the conference center.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Lead for the HQ Conference Center and Support Functions for the Director also has protocol responsibilities
• Lead the end-to-end planning and execution of meetings and events including conferences workshops off-sites and client engagements.
• Lead the coordinating for all logistical elements: venue scouting site inspections travel planning registration catering A/V décor security and guest services.
• Develop and issue Requests for Proposals (RFPs) to venues and vendors; evaluate responses negotiate terms and finalize contracts.
• Oversee budget development forecasting tracking and reconciliation in alignment with financial goals.
• Manage vendor relationships and performance ensuring delivery of high-quality services on time and within budget.
• Ensure a seamless guest experience through proactive planning clear communication and exceptional attention to detail.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to align event objectives branding and messaging.
• Utilize event management and registration platforms to streamline logistics reporting and attendee engagement.
• Provide guidance and coaching to junior team members or administrative staff involved in event planning.
• Conduct post-event evaluations and report on successes issues and recommendations for improvement.
• Responsible for all Directorate and Organization functions involving the conference center and break-out areas
• Plans and implements required security protocols for classified conferences and briefings.

Basic Qualifications

• TS/SCI w/ Poly Clearance is required
• Bachelors Degree and 8 years of experience Masters Degree and 6 years of experience or experience in lieu of a degree.
• Demonstrated success managing multiple complex events simultaneously.
• Strong understanding of event budgeting cost controls and vendor contract management.
• Excellent communication negotiation and problem-solving skills.
• Proficient in event management platforms (e.g. Cvent Eventbrite Bizzabo) Microsoft Office Suite and project tracking tools.
• Ability to travel for on-site event support as needed.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience managing events in corporate government or highly regulated environments.
• Deep understanding of venue contracts catering services and A/V production requirements.
• Familiarity with event marketing principles and tools.
• Knowledge of forecasting workforce planning or long-term strategic event portfolio management.
• Experience leading or mentoring a team of planners or support staff.
• Working knowledge of DEI best practices for inclusive events.

If youre looking for comfort keep scrolling. At Leidos we outthink outbuild and outpace the status quo because the mission demands it. Were not hiring followers. Were recruiting the ones who disrupt provoke and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. Were already at step 30 and moving faster than anyone else dares.

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline onlyand not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job education experience knowledge skills and abilities as well as internal equity alignment with market data applicable bargaining agreement (if any) or other law.