Manager | Event Strategy & Innovation | NASW National Office

Manager | Event Strategy & Innovation | NASW National OfficeWashington, DC, USAJob DescriptionFounded in 1955, the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) is the largest membership organization of professional social workers in the world, with more than 120,000 members. NASW works to enhance the professional growth and development of its members, to create and maintain professional standards, and to advance sound social policies.Role FunctionAt NASW, we believe conferences are more than gatherings; they are catalysts for connection, learning, inspiration, and collective action. The Event Strategy & Innovation Manager plays a pivotal role in bringing that vision to life.This is not simply an event logistics role. It is a leadership role in experience design and strategy. You will lead the planning, execution, and evolution of our National in-person and virtual conferences and convenings, ensuring each event is innovative, mission-aligned, financially sound, and unforgettable for our members.We are seeking a dynamic professional who is equally energized by building a detailed project plan and shaping long-term event strategy. Someone who is excited to roll up their sleeves, collaborate across departments, mentor teammates, and continuously raise the bar for what our events can be.What You'll LeadMission-Driven Experience DesignDesign conferences and events that inspire purpose, foster meaningful connection, and reflect the heart of our mission.Transform themes into cohesive, immersive experiences that resonate deeply with our members.Introduce creative, forward-thinking formats that enhance engagement across in-person and virtual environments.Strategic Vision & Leadership PartnershipServe as a trusted advisor to senior leadership on event strategy, innovation, and future growth opportunities.Develop business cases and conduct cost-benefit analyses to evaluate new conference initiatives.Identify ways to scale, strengthen, and modernize our event portfolio for long-term success.Own the full lifecycle of conferences and events from concept development to post-event evaluation.Ensure all events are delivered on time, within budget, and at an exceptional standard of quality.Balance high-level strategy with detailed execution, managing timelines, logistics, speakers, vendors, and onsite operations.Develop and manage national conference and event budgets with strong financial oversight.Track revenue, sponsorship performance, and expenses to ensure fiscal responsibility and growth.Analyze performance metrics and attendee feedback to continuously improve outcomes and ROI.Cross-Functional CollaborationPartner closely with NASW departments to ensure cohesive messaging and strong participation.Clearly communicate goals, timelines, and expectations to internal and external stakeholders.Lead multi-functional project teams with clarity, accountability, and positive energy.Build and nurture strategic relationships with venues, service providers, and partners.Negotiate contracts that reflect value, quality, and mission alignment.Elevate standards of delivery through strong partnership management.Coaching & Team DevelopmentMentor and support team members, helping them grow in both tactical execution and strategic thinking.Foster a culture of innovation, ownership, collaboration, and continuous improvement.Lead with both confidence and humility, modeling excellence while empowering others.Who You AreA creative thinker with a strategic mindset.Highly organized and detail-oriented, you love a well-executed plan.Comfortable moving between big-picture strategy and granular logistics.Energized by building meaningful member experiences.Skilled in managing budgets and analyzing financial performance.A natural collaborator who builds trust across teams.A mentor at heart who enjoys developing others.Proactive, adaptable, and solutions-focused in fast-paced environments.KnowledgeBachelor's degree in Event & Hospitality Management, Tourism & Convention Management, Non-profit Management, Business Administration, Organizational Leadership or Organizational StrategyCertified Meeting Professional (CMP), Project Management Professional (PMP), highly preferredExperience6–10+ years of progressive experience designing and delivering high-impact conferences and events, including leading teams, owning full-cycle budgets, andexecuting large-scale, complex convenings (in-person and virtual).Demonstrated success shaping event strategy in a nonprofit, association, or mission-driven environment, with measurable growth in revenue, engagement, sponsorship, or attendance.Proven ability to build authentic, trust-based relationships across diverse stakeholders, including members, sponsors, vendors, senior leadership, volunteers, and cross-functional teams.Experience operating in agile, resource-conscious organizations, balancing innovation with fiscal responsibility while maintaining high standards of quality and execution.Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to translate vision into actionable plans, influence decision-makers, and inspire collaboration through clear, confident verbal and written messaging.This is a hybrid position: 3 days in office, 2 days remote.NASW offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance; life insurance; employer-paid disability insurance, paid vacation and sick time; paid parental leave, health savings account with employer funding, flexible spending account (healthcare and dependent care), a 401(k) with matching contribution; professional development opportunities; and more.NASW is an equal opportunity employer. As such, NASW is committed to promoting and providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees. The selection of personnel, including new hires and promotions, will be on the basis of qualifications designed to ensure appointments of persons able to effectively discharge the duties and responsibilities of their position. The Association will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression (including transgender status), marital status, veteran status, physical or mental disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. The Association will also abide by applicable affirmative action requirements mandated by any federal contracts.J-18808-Ljbffr