CPA.com, a leading developer and distributor of technology and business solutions for the CPA profession, is seeking an experienced Sr. Manager of Corporate Special Events who can apply their skillset to support key strategic objectives and drive brand visibility through the design and execution of high-impact corporate conferences, events and meetings. This role would oversee the company’s events and conference strategy, including event conceptualization, planning and execution, programming and agenda, budget management and logistics and operations for 50+ CPA.com and third-party events annually. The Sr. Manager of Events will serve as a key contributor in the company, partnering with leadership and internal and external stakeholders to ensure corporate goals are achieved, as well as representing CPA.com on various committees. The ideal candidate will have a passion for event strategy & production, strong organizational, partnering and communication skills, and a track record of executing corporate events aligned with company goals.
Key Responsibilities
Strategy, Planning & Development:
- Lead the conceptualization, planning and execution of an annual events strategy that supports key corporate initiative and goals.
- Oversee the successful execution of 50+ annual in-person, hybrid and virtual events including large scale industry conferences (AICPA & CIMA ENGAGE and Digital CPA), third-party events and meetings, thought leadership symposiums, roundtables and webinars, VIP dinners and experiences, and committee meetings.
- Oversee and lead the overall management and strategy for the company’s annual flagship conference, Digital CPA, including conference programming and experience; exhibit and sponsorship design, sponsorship selection and management, conference pricing and registration, logistics and operations, budget and resource allocation; coordination of thought leadership webinars (3); management of conference advisory board; and organization of managing partner summit.
- Research, identify and secure venues, service providers, speakers and strategic partners with a focus on the elevation of the event experience.
- Stay updated on the latest trends in event technology, formats, and attendee engagement strategies to continually enhance the impact of our events.
- Conduct post-event analysis to assess overall success and effectiveness of events and key insights and recommendations for future improvements.
- Lead the management of the Digital CPA Advisory Board, including meetings (4 per year), communications, feedback and more.
- Represent company in various event commiitees.
- Lead the company’s event programming strategy, partnering with leadership and key stakeholders to ensure agenda and session content is aligned with corporate goals.
- Develop event themes, agendas, and content to align with company priorities and branding.
- Project manage all event agenda content deliverables for two large-scale conferences (DCPA and ENGAGE) including building and managing session tracks, reviewing and submitting sessions (titles, descriptions, learning objectives, speakers).
- Create and manage the CPA.com annual speaking topics library and organize speaking requests that come in from 3 rd parties (approx. 25 per year) , including coordination and speaker assignments.
- Review all conference session PowerPoint decks and identify any gaps or content conflicts
- Identify, vet, and coordinate with keynote speakers, presenters, and other talent for two large-scale industry events. Handle speaker logistics, including travel arrangements, contracts, and technical needs.
- Allocate and manage annual event budget, ensuring all costs align with allocated resources. Provide strategic financial planning and quarterly forecasting updates.
- Track and report on expenditures, negotiate vendor contracts, and ensure cost-effective solutions.
- Reconcile event expenses and ensure ROI metrics are met.
- Oversee management and ongoing coaching of 1 direct report (Lead Manager – Operations), to ensure successful execution of operations and logistics for 50+ annual events. Key responsibilities include:
- Execution of event plans, including timelines, budgets, and logistics.
- Oversee the setup, execution, and breakdown of events, ensuring all operations run smoothly and efficiently.
- Management of relationships with vendors, suppliers, and key stakeholders to ensure all event requirements are met and expectations are exceeded.
- Partnering with marketing and design teams for event branding, promotional materials, and communications.
- 1 direct report – Lead Manager -Event Operations
- 10-15 years of experience in B2B event management, with a proven track record of successfully executing large-scale corporate events, conferences, and high-profile meetings.
- Leadership experience, including managing and developing high-performing teams.
- Strong project management skills with the ability to manage multiple events simultaneously.
- Exceptional budget management skills, with a strong understanding of financials and contract negotiation.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Professionalism and judgment in representing the company with internal and external stakeholders.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage tight deadlines.
- Proficiency in event and project management software, such as Event Power,Monday.com, ShoApp and similar tools.
- Strong leadership skills with the ability to work independently and collaboratively across departments.
- Ability to travel up to 25% of the time.
Preferred Skills
- Experience working in a corporate or high-pressure event environment.
- Knowledge of audio/visual production, lighting, and event technology.
- Strong vendor management skills and relationships within the events industry.