Manager, Signature Event Production (Global Special Events)

$89,300 - $94,000/Yr

National Geographic Society - Washington, DC

Full-time - Mid Level

Washington, DC

Publishing Industries

About the position

The Manager, Signature Event Production at the National Geographic Society is responsible for the day-to-day project management of the Society's Signature Events portfolio. This role involves coordinating with various stakeholders and agency partners to produce impactful global events that align with the Society's mission and enhance donor engagement. The position requires strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple large-scale events, ensuring successful execution and fostering connections among Explorers, donors, and staff.

Responsibilities

• Project manage logistics for 2-3 multi-day, multi-venue hybrid summits and events annually.
• Manage the planning of employee-facing events including the NGS Winter Celebration and Collaboration Week.
• Coordinate logistics for events including venue, hotel, AV, catering, décor, and printing.
• Manage relationships with 3rd party production companies and agency partners.
• Develop plans and processes that support project, department, and organizational goals.
• Manage budgets focusing on clear tracking and efficient spending.
• Work with legal and finance to process contracts and payments for vendors.
• Manage content development and approvals of creative assets.
• Create staffing plans, volunteer schedules, and training programs for events.
• Maintain thorough documentation including budgets and production timelines.
• Manage hotel room blocks and support travel needs for Explorers and VIPs.
• Source vendors and negotiate contracts for new and existing partners.
• Conduct after-action reporting including post-event surveys and budget reconciliation.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree preferred.
• 5+ years experience in in-person event production or planning.
• Ability to support evening and weekend events and travel domestically or internationally (5-10%).
• Effective written and oral communication skills.
• Excellent critical thinking skills and sound judgment.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to prioritize tasks under deadlines and manage time efficiently.
• Ability to work on highly collaborative teams.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience managing event logistics for large-scale convenings (500+ attendees).
• Fluency in sustainability and accessibility practices for events.
• Experience with event registration platforms.
• Enthusiasm for staying up to date on event industry trends.

Benefits

• 401(k) matching
• Adoption assistance
• Commuter assistance
• Dental insurance
• Disability insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance