POSITION FILLED – Executive Director of Conferences

Date:  February 5, 2024 Position Available:  Executive Director of Conferences Position Reports to:  Vice President of Advancement Department:  Advancement FLSA Status:  Exempt Schedule:  Full-time; Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.; some evenings and weekends; some light travel is required   Please apply online:  https://franciscan.edu/executive-director-of-conferences/   POSITION SUMMARY Franciscan University is seeking a highly motivated and visionary leader to fill the role of Executive Director of Conferences. The successful candidate will be responsible for driving the strategic growth and operational success of our conferences, ensuring they align with the University’s mission of fostering encounter, community, and conversion. This position demands a dynamic individual with a proven track record of achieving results, a strong evangelistic background, and a demonstrated commitment to faithful service within the Catholic Church.   PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Strategic Leadership: Develop and execute a strategic vision for the expansion and enhancement of Franciscan University Conferences, with a primary focus on measurable outcomes.
2. Operational Excellence: Oversee all aspects of conference planning, logistics, and execution to ensure seamless operations and an exceptional participant experience.
3. Financial Management: Drive revenue growth by developing and implementing innovative strategies for conference funding, sponsorships, and participant fees.
4. Program Development: Spearhead the creation of emerging and compelling Conference programs that align with the University’s core values and resonate with a broad audience. This includes the exploration of new avenues of experience, locations, content, and marketing.
5. Collaborative Partnerships: Cultivate and manage strategic partnerships with relevant organizations, speakers, and influencers to enhance the quality and reach of our Conferences. This includes deepening relationships with our Regional Partners who manage our remote conferences.
6. Continuous Improvement: Implement a feedback mechanism (surveys, etc.) for continuous improvement, analyzing data and participant feedback to refine and optimize future Conferences.
7. Team Leadership: Provide visionary leadership to the Conference team, fostering a culture of excellence, collaboration, and results-driven performance. Obsessive commitment to communication within the Conference team. Demonstrate fresh thinking in everything related to Conferences, including marketing, programming, formats, and locations.
8. Budget Oversight: Develop and manage budgets for all Conferences, ensuring financial goals are met and resources are utilized effectively.

  This is not intended to be an all-inclusive list.  Additional duties, expectations and responsibilities may be added or changed as needed to meet the University’s needs.   REQUIREMENTS Must believe, promote and have a strong commitment to the mission of Franciscan University of Steubenville and possess the following:   Technical Skills:

1. Proficiency with Slate CRM is a plus
2. Proficiency with all Microsoft suite products is a plus

Non-Technical Skills (Competencies):

1. Proven Leadership Experience:
   1. Minimum of 5 years of experience in planning and executing large-scale events or conferences, with a demonstrated track record of achieving measurable results.
2. Results-Driven Mindset:
   1. A proven ability to set and achieve ambitious goals, with a focus on data-driven decision-making and a commitment to achieving measurable outcomes.
3. Strategic Thinker:
   1. An innovative and strategic thinker with the ability to develop and execute long-term plans that align with organizational goals.
4. Exceptional Communication Skills:
   1. Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively convey the mission and vision of Franciscan University Conferences. Willingness and ability to effectively speak in public.
5. Financial Acumen:
   1. Demonstrated experience in financial management, including budget development, forecasting, and revenue generation.
6. Collaborative Spirit:
   1. A collaborative and inspirational leadership style, with the ability to work effectively with various teams, stakeholders, and partners.

  Education & Experience:

1. Strong Academic Background:
   1. A bachelor’s degree is required; a master’s degree or higher is preferred. The ideal candidate will have a background in business, marketing, event management, or a related field.

Workplace Factors

• Some evening and weekend hours are required, particularly in the summer
• Some light travel is required

  Candidates must submit an online application, a resume and a cover letter that demonstrates their fit for the position based on their experience, accomplishments and skills as well as their desire to advance the mission of Franciscan University.   Please apply online:  https://franciscan.edu/executive-director-of-conferences/   For other information and job postings, visit our website at https://www.franciscan.edu   Franciscan University of Steubenville is committed to principles of equal opportunity and is an equal opportunity employer.