Conference & Events Production Lead

Primary Work Address: 4000 Jones Bridge Road, Chevy Chase, MD, 20815

Current HHMI Employees, click here to apply via your Workday account.

HHMI is focused on supporting and moving science forward in a variety of different ways ranging from conducting basic biomedical research, empowering educators, inspiring students, developing the next generation of scientists – even stretching into film and media production.  Our Headquarters is in the greater Washington, DC metro area and is home to over 300 employees with expertise in investments, communications, digital production, biomedical sciences, and everything in between.  The work housed here supports and augments the groundbreaking research conducted in HHMI labs across the nation.  As HHMI scientists continue to push boundaries in laboratories and classrooms, you can be sure that your contributions while working here are making a difference.

Summary:

The Conference & Events Production Lead partners with operational teams to plan and successfully execute all production aspects of multi-day conferences and events, bringing client visions to life and showcasing HHMI’s commitment to excellence.

This role drives logistical strategy across departments and campuses, assisting organizers with event requirements and technology design. Success in this strategic, hands-on role requires exceptional interpersonal, project management, and problem-solving skills.

This position is full-time and reports to HHMI headquarters in Chevy Chase, MD five days a week. The person in this role will need to be flexible in scheduling since some events go beyond traditional work hours and occasionally happen on weekends.  

What we provide:

• A role that is uniquely positioned to have an impact on the mission and work at HHMI because it connects people.

• A manager who believes in creating space for the employee to lead the work but will be there to support the team through the unique challenges events may present.

• A team that believes in building trust, encourages collaboration, and supports one another.

• A competitive compensation package that includes a 10% employer contribution to your retirement, up to $10,000 in educational reimbursement each year, and a significant budget for professional development.

What you’ll do:

Conference and Event Management

• Plan, implement, and lead conferences, ensuring client satisfaction and operational excellence.

• Serve as the primary host, supervising logistics, ROS development, technology checks, and post-event reviews.

• Coordinate with speakers, IT, and Communications on materials, recordings, and promotional content.

• Research and integrate new event technologies and vendors.

• Assist with staging, room setup, and operational planning.

• Support leadership with administrative tasks and ensure effective change management.

Leadership and Collaboration

• Exemplify exceptional customer service and act as manager-on-duty as needed.

• Partner with operations teams to ensure seamless event delivery and protocol development.

• Cultivate collaboration across HHMI for consistent, high-quality outcomes.

Innovation and Improvement

• Lead virtual and hybrid events, driving innovation and scalability.

• Use feedback and metrics to implement process improvements.

• Design digital and printed event signage to enhance branding.

What you bring:

• Bachelor’s degree in tourism/hospitality or a related field or combination of education and related work experience.

• Minimum of five years of experience in a similar role; nonprofit experience a plus.

• Strong project management skills and experience managing in-house and contract staff.

• Proficiency in event management systems (e.g. Whoova), virtual platforms, and design tools (e.g. Adobe, Canva).

• In-depth knowledge of event planning principles, audio-visual technology, and evolving tools to enhance workflows and user experience.

• Exceptional customer service and communication skills (verbal and written).

• Strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills; able to make decisions independently with ownership and accountability.

• Flexible schedule, including availability for late nights and weekends as needed.

• Meticulous and dedicated, with a focus on improving guest experiences and resource ste