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Association Forum Chicago Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Association Forum Chicago information

What skills are needed for association jobs?

Association jobs typically require strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills to coordinate events, manage memberships, and facilitate collaboration. Proficiency in project management tools, attention to detail, and the ability to work under deadlines are also important, along with relevant certifications or experience in the association's industry if applicable.

What is the difference between Association Forum Chicago vs Event Coordinator?

AspectAssociation Forum ChicagoEvent Coordinator
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in hospitality, marketing, or related fieldsOften requires a bachelor's degree; certifications like CMP are a plus
Work EnvironmentNonprofit associations, professional organizations, conference centersEvent venues, corporate settings, nonprofit and hospitality industries
Industry UsageUsed within association management and professional organizationsCommon across hospitality, corporate events, and nonprofit sectors

Association Forum Chicago focuses on supporting professionals in association management, offering resources, networking, and industry insights. Event Coordinators plan and execute events across various industries, including associations, hospitality, and corporate sectors. While both roles involve event planning, Association Forum Chicago is more specialized in association-related activities, whereas Event Coordinators have a broader scope across different event types and industries.

What is the Association Forum Chicago?

The Association Forum Chicago is a professional organization that supports association management professionals in the Chicago area. It provides resources, networking opportunities, education, and advocacy for individuals working in associations and nonprofit organizations. The Forum aims to advance the success of association professionals and the organizations they serve through events, learning programs, and community engagement. Membership is open to individuals and organizations involved in the management of associations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Association Forum Professional in Chicago, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Association Forum professional in Chicago, you need expertise in association management, event planning, and member engagement, often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree or CAE (Certified Association Executive) certification. Familiarity with association management software (AMS), customer relationship management (CRM) systems, and digital communication tools is important. Strong organizational, networking, and interpersonal skills help foster connections and drive member satisfaction. These skills are essential for effectively supporting association goals, enhancing member value, and ensuring the success of forums and events.

Who is the CEO of Association Forum?

The Association Forum does not have a CEO; it is led by a President and CEO who oversee its operations and strategic initiatives. The current President and CEO is Susan Robertson, responsible for guiding the organization and supporting its members in the association industry.

What is an association forum?

An association forum is a platform or event where members of an organization or industry gather to share knowledge, discuss issues, and network. For professionals working in associations, participating in forums can enhance industry understanding and foster professional connections.

How does working at the Association Forum in Chicago typically involve collaboration with other associations and industry professionals?

At the Association Forum in Chicago, collaboration is central to the role. Employees often work closely with representatives from various professional associations, vendors, and subject matter experts to organize events, develop educational programs, and share best practices. Team members attend networking events, participate in committee meetings, and contribute to cross-functional projects, fostering a highly interactive and supportive work environment. This collaborative culture offers excellent opportunities for professional growth and learning from industry leaders.

What jobs are most in demand?

In Chicago, association management roles such as event planners, membership coordinators, and nonprofit administrators are in high demand. Skills in communication, organization, and familiarity with association management software are often required, along with relevant certifications like the Certified Association Executive (CAE).
What cities are hiring for Association Forum Chicago jobs? Cities with the most Association Forum Chicago job openings:
What states have the most Association Forum Chicago jobs? States with the most job openings for Association Forum Chicago jobs include:
Infographic showing various Association Forum Chicago job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Director, Association Operations and Meetings

Director, Association Operations and Meetings

American College of Surgeons

Chicago, IL • On-site

$103K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

About the American College of Surgeons
The American College of Surgeons (ACS) is a professional and educational organization of surgeons that was founded in 1913 to raise the standards of surgical practice and improve the quality of care for surgical patients. The College is dedicated to the ethical and competent practice of surgery. Its achievements have significantly influenced the course of scientific surgery in America and have established it as an important advocate for all surgical patients. The College has more than 90,000 members and is the largest organization of surgeons in the world. For more information, visit www.facs.org.
Our MissionThe American College of Surgeons is dedicated to improving the care of the surgical patient and safeguarding standards of care in an optimal and ethical practice environment.
Our VisionTo create a healthcare landscape where surgeons thrive and every patient has access to and benefits from the highest standards of surgical care, driven by innovation, education, leadership, and trust.
About the Eastern Association for the Surgery of Trauma (EAST)
The Eastern Association for the Surgery of Trauma (EAST) provides a forum for the exchange of knowledge to advance the care and rehabilitation of the injured patient. EAST places particular emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration, scholarship, fellowship and developing leadership among early and mid-career surgeons active in the care of the injured patient. EAST has a multidisciplinary membership of more than 3,900 comprised of trauma and acute care surgeons, emergency physicians, advanced practice providers, nurses, and medical students. Members generate and participate in EAST's unique leadership, education, and career development programs and resources all designed to advance EAST's mission, vision and core strategic goals. The EAST Annual Scientific Assembly draws more than 1,000 attendees; scientific papers are presented and advances in the field are discussed. EAST also has established lectureships, scholarships and a development fund to promote, reward, and recognize individuals working in the field of injury and injury control.
Summary: The Director of Association Operations and Meetings provides strategic leadership and operational oversight for the Eastern Association for the Surgery of Trauma (EAST) administrative functions and meetings/events portfolio. This role ensures the successful planning and execution of conferences, board and committee meetings, and member events, while also overseeing administrative systems, governance support, and operational infrastructure that advance the association's mission and strategic goals objectives. The position serves as a key member of the leadership team and works collaboratively across departments to enhance member engagement, operational efficiency, and financial sustainability.
This exempt position will report to the Executive Director, EAST. It is based in our Chicago office and is a hybrid role: 3 days per week in the office/2 days per week remote.
The anticipated salary range for this position is $103,500 - $115,000 (commensurate with related experience).
Key Responsibilities:
Association Operations and Governance Administration
  • Provide leadership for day-to-day association operations, ensuring effective administrative support and operational efficiency.
  • Support the Executive Director in governance administration, including Board and committee operations, agenda development, board materials, minutes oversight, policy tracking, and governance compliance.
  • Coordinate Executive Committee meeting logistics, scheduling, communications, and operational follow-through.
  • Translate Board-approved priorities into operational work plans and implementation timelines.
  • Identify and implement process improvements and operational efficiencies to maximize staff and organizational resources.
  • Serve as a key operational contact for member inquiries, vendor management, and issue resolution.

Financial and Operational Management
  • Manage budget administration and financial operations in partnership with the Executive Director and EAST Treasurer.
  • Monitor expenses, forecasting activities, invoice approvals, and audit coordination processes.
  • Partner with contracted accounting and auditing resources to support financial reporting and compliance activities.
  • Support operational decision-making through effective management of organizational resources and meeting-related expenditures.

Staff Leadership and Team Management
  • Supervise and develop administrative coordinator staff through performance management, coaching, and professional development.
  • Provide leadership and direction to administrative coordinator staff, volunteers, and vendors supporting operational and meeting activities.
  • Establish priorities, allocate resources, and support collaboration across operational functions.
  • Promote accountability, teamwork, and service excellence across administrative and meeting operations.

Committee and Volunteer Leadership Support
  • Serve as lead staff liaison to the Annual Scientific Assembly Committee and the Member Recruitment and Retention Committee.
  • Collaborate with Committee Chairs to support committee goals, meeting coordination, communications, and operational execution.
  • Assist with preparation of Board reports, conference calls, and committee materials.
  • Provide operational guidance and support to volunteer leaders and committee stakeholders.

Meetings and Event Management
  • Oversee operational planning and logistics for the EAST Annual Scientific Assembly and related meetings and events.
  • Manage abstract submission processes, educational session proposal administration, committee scoring coordination, and Program Planning Meeting logistics.
  • Direct meeting operations including audiovisual coordination, registration oversight, exhibits management, housing management, food and beverage planning, shipping logistics, and onsite execution.
  • Coordinate contracts, vendor relationships, and venue logistics to support successful meeting outcomes.
  • Support future meeting planning activities, including site visits, venue coordination, and operational assessments.
  • Ensure meetings and events are executed within approved budgets, timelines, and organizational standards.

Vendor and Cross-Functional Collaboration
  • Manage relationships with vendors, contractors, venues, and service providers to ensure operational effectiveness and quality service delivery.
  • Serve as a primary liaison with ACS registration and exhibits management contacts and external operational partners.
  • Partner with the Executive Director and organizational leadership to support operational priorities and strategic initiatives.
  • Coordinate cross-functional communication and collaboration to ensure successful operational execution across programs and meetings.

Required Education and/or Experience:
  • Bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited college or university is strongly preferred.
  • At least 5 -10+ years of progressive experience in association administrative and meetings management is required.
  • Experience managing complex meetings, conferences, operational processes, and vendor relationships is required.
  • Experience supporting governance operations, volunteer leadership, committee management, and budget administration preferred.

Comprehensive Benefits:We're committed to attracting and retaining top talent via valuable benefits!
  • Vacation, personal, and sick hours including 13 paid holidays per year
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Medical-comprehensive coverage through BlueCross BlueShield
  • Dental, Vision, and Prescription drug program
  • 403(b) Matching Program
  • Pension Plan
  • Flexible Spending Medical/Dependent Care
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Short Term/Long Term Disability
  • Life Insurance
  • Domestic Partner Coverage

The American College of Surgeons is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail to recruitment@facs.org or call (312) 202-5000 and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.