The awesome media reform group Free Press is looking for an events manager to help them organize the next National Conference for Media Reform, scheduled for June 2008 in Minneapolis. I was at the 2007 NCMR which was an inspired gathering of thousands and thousands of people fighting for more democratic, participatory media. This is a great opportunity for an organizer interested in learning how to coordinate a massive convention of activists, policymakers, scholars and media producers.
Job Posting: Event
Manager
Free Press is a national, nonpartisan organization working to reform the media. Free Press was founded in 2003 and has staff working from offices in Northampton, Mass., and Washington, D.C.
We are now hiring an Event Manager to work with our Outreach Team to produce the high-profile National Conference for Media Reform (NCMR) and other events. NCMR – next scheduled for June 2008 – is a famously well-run conference attracting thousands of academics, activists, entertainers, thought leaders, and public policy makers for a weekend of inspiring speeches, panels, workshops, entertainment, and networking.
We’re looking for a motivated, well-organized, level-headed person with substantial event production experience, a high degree of stamina, and the ability to thrive in a demanding environment. You’ll receive training, guidance and support from several staff that have coordinated the past three conferences (2003, 2005 and 2007). For more information about prior events visit: http://freepress.net/conference/
If you’ve always wanted to be a maestro – this is the job for you!
Position Summary: The Event Manager works with key staff to plan, produce, convene and evaluation special events designed to increase participation in the media reform movement S/he will be primarily focused on the National Conference for Media Reform (NCMR), Free Press’ flagship convening held every 18 months in a different location. NCMR is a large 3-day conference attended by 3,000-4,000 participants. The Event Manager will also work on other regional and national special events as needed and in collaboration with our Campaign and Communications teams. This position is based in our Northampton, Mass. office. Occasional travel is required.
Experience/Education: Must have 3-5 years of direct experience in event planning for large regional or national events and/or a training program of similar scope and complexity. Experience managing staff, recruiting and deploying volunteers and procuring vendor services is required. Experience negotiating contracts and managing budgets is desired. A college graduate with an interest in social change activism and public policy desired.
Skills/knowledge: Must be dynamic, motivated, highly-organized, and able to juggle multiple priorities effectively. Must be able to work well under pressure, delegate effectively, and meet critical deadlines. We’re seeking an effective communicator who can solve problems and who can receive input and criticism from a variety of constituencies. Must have a strong sense of responsibility, solid customer service ethic. We need someone who can exercise good judgment. We are seeking someone who can follow explicit instructions as well as lead projects and work independently. A sense of humor and can do attitude is a must. Facility with database, spreadsheet, word processing and e-mail and Internet computer programs required.
To Apply: Send an e-mail to Amy Martyn at jobs.eventmanager@freepress.net Please include the following:
- a cover letter describing why you are interested in this work, summarizing why you should be considered for this job, and identifying your current salary requirements.
- 2your résumé
- telephone and e-mail contact information for three employment references.
This information must be embedded into the e-mail (and not submitted as an attachment). Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applications will be acknowledged upon receipt. Free Press is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage and value a diverse work force, and we seek diversity among applicants for this position. Women and people of color are strongly encouraged to apply.