The Association for association professionals in Chicagoland

Love bringing people together? Thrive on details, timelines, and the buzz of event day? We’re looking for an enthusiastic Association Event Coordinator to help create meaningful, memorable experiences for our members.

This is a fantastic opportunity for someone early in their career who wants hands-on experience in the association events world. You’ll learn the ins and outs of conferences, workshops, and member programs while working alongside a collaborative, supportive team that’s excited to help you grow.

What You’ll Do:

You’ll play a key role in turning ideas into impactful events:

• Help plan and coordinate conferences, workshops, and member gatherings
• Bring event logistics to life — registration, speakers, venues, catering, A/V, and on-site support
• Collaborate with vendors, sponsors, speakers, and internal teammates
• Keep event timelines, checklists, and budgets on track
• Craft attendee communications — from invitations to post-event follow-up
• Maintain event databases, registration lists, and reporting
• Be part of the on-site action: setup, registration desk, and troubleshooting
• Assist with post-event evaluations and data insights
• Travel to event locations (1–2 per month) to support live events
• Coordinate and host virtual programs (1–2 per month, typically evenings)

 You’ll Thrive If You:

• Stay calm when timelines get tight and details multiply
• Love being the behind-the-scenes hero who makes events run seamlessly
• Enjoy building relationships with vendors, speakers, and team members
• Take initiative and look for ways to improve processes
• Adapt quickly when plans change (because events always keep things interesting!)
• Don’t mind rolling up your sleeves — whether that’s setting up signage or troubleshooting tech
• Get excited about hopping on a plane and discovering new cities — our events take us all over the U.S.

Required Experience:

• 1–2 years of experience in events, hospitality, associations, nonprofits, or a related field
• Strong organizational skills and sharp attention to detail
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• The ability to juggle multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Comfort with event software, databases, Microsoft Office, and Zoom
• A proactive, adaptable mindset with a willingness to learn
• Flexibility to travel and support evening/weekend events as needed
• Position is virtual and contract-based, though ideal locations would include Birmingham, AL or Boston, MA (New England area) for a majority of client events

Interested?  Email hello@smithstrategiesmanagement.com.

• 1–2 years of experience in events, hospitality, associations, nonprofits, or a related field
• Strong organizational skills and sharp attention to detail
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• The ability to juggle multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Comfort with event software, databases, Microsoft Office, and Zoom
• A proactive, adaptable mindset with a willingness to learn
• Flexibility to travel and support evening/weekend events as needed
• Position is virtual and contract-based, though ideal locations would include Birmingham, AL or Boston, MA (New England area) for a majority of client events

About Smith Strategies Association and Event Management

Smith Strategies Association and Event Management is a full-service association and event management company serving nonprofit associations across the country.

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