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Conference Manager Jobs in Maryland (NOW HIRING)

Conference Services Manager Department: Sales & Catering / Events Reports To: Director of Sales & Marketing 1. Objective To ensure the seamless planning and execution of all conferences, meetings ...

JOB SUMMARY The Conference Services Manager has the responsibility for the execution of meeting and event space held in the hotel. This individual will assist the sales team in meeting or exceeding ...

Axiom Hospitality, our European hotel management company; and PYRAMIDWORKS, which provides ... Director of Conference Services We look for people who are passionate about service and have a ...

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Conference Manager information

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$15K

$53.2K

$78.1K

How much do conference manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for conference manager in Maryland is $53,167.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,100.00 and $61,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a conference manager?

A conference manager, also known as an events manager, organizes and oversees all aspects of a conference to make sure it’s successful. In this role, your job duties include supervising the event planning staff, finding facilities that can be used as a venue, and confirming vendors for the conference center. You’re also responsible for preparing the facilities for guests, for example, by setting up directional signs or coordinating on-site parking services as needed. You may also negotiate vendor contracts and organize staff payroll. This career requires strong planning, organizational, and budget management skills. Qualifications typically include a bachelor’s degree and several years of experience in event planning or hospitality management.

What does a conference manager do?

A Conference Manager is responsible for planning, organizing, and overseeing all aspects of conferences and similar events. Their duties include coordinating logistics such as venue selection, scheduling, budgeting, vendor management, and ensuring a smooth experience for attendees and speakers. They also handle registrations, marketing, and troubleshooting issues that arise during the event. The Conference Manager works closely with clients, sponsors, and internal teams to ensure the event meets its objectives and runs efficiently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a conference manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Conference Manager, you need strong organizational abilities, event planning experience, and typically a degree in hospitality, marketing, or a related field. Familiarity with event management software, budgeting tools, and registration platforms is essential for coordinating logistics and attendee management. Excellent communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills help in building relationships with stakeholders and handling on-site challenges. These competencies ensure successful, seamless events that meet organizational goals and deliver positive attendee experiences.

What are the most common challenges faced by a conference manager when coordinating large-scale events?

One of the main challenges for a Conference Manager is ensuring seamless coordination among multiple stakeholders, including vendors, speakers, sponsors, and attendees. Managing logistics such as venue arrangements, technical support, and scheduling can be complex, especially when dealing with unexpected changes or last-minute requests. Strong organizational skills and the ability to adapt quickly are essential for overcoming these challenges and delivering a successful event. Collaboration with cross-functional teams and clear communication are key to addressing issues efficiently and maintaining high event standards.

What is the difference between Conference Manager vs Event Coordinator?

AspectConference ManagerEvent Coordinator
Primary RoleOversees planning, execution, and management of conferences and large eventsCoordinates various aspects of events, including logistics and vendor management
CredentialsOften requires experience in event planning, certifications like CMP (Certified Meeting Professional)Typically requires experience in event coordination, certifications are optional
Work EnvironmentCorporate, conference centers, hotels, or event venuesVaries from corporate to social events, often more flexible locations
ScopeFocuses on large-scale, complex events like conferences and conventionsHandles a variety of events, including smaller meetings and social gatherings

While both roles involve event planning, a Conference Manager specializes in large, complex conferences requiring strategic oversight, whereas an Event Coordinator manages a broader range of events with a focus on logistics and execution. The Conference Manager typically has more experience and credentials related to large-scale event management.

More about Conference Manager jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Conference jobs in Maryland?

The most popular types of Conference jobs in Maryland are:

What are popular job titles related to Conference Manager jobs in Maryland?

For Conference Manager jobs in Maryland, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Maryland are hiring for Conference Manager jobs?

Cities in Maryland with the most Conference Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Conference Manager job openings in Maryland as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,167 per year, or $25.6 per hour.

Senior Conference Services Manager

Donohoe Hospitality Services

College Park, MD • On-site

$86K/yr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Senior Conference Services Manager
Location: The Hotel at the University of Maryland
Department: Sales & Marketing
Reports to: Director of Sales & Marketing
Status: Full-Time
Salary Range: $82,000.00 - $86,000.00 annually (experience-based compensation)
GET TO KNOW THE HOTEL AT THE UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND
The Hotel at the University of Maryland is a AAA Four Diamond independent property located directly across from the University of Maryland campus. The Hotel features 297 guest rooms, including 9 suites, and more than 45,000 square feet of flexible meeting and event space, accommodating programs ranging from intimate gatherings to events of up to 1,500 attendees.
Managed by Donohoe Hospitality Services (DHS), The Hotel is committed to delivering highly personalized service and exceptional guest experiences. We foster a professional, collaborative environment where team members are encouraged to grow, develop their skills, take on greater responsibility, and advance their careers.
POSITION SUMMARY
The Senior Conference Services Manager is responsible for the planning, coordination, communication, and successful execution of assigned conferences, meetings, corporate programs, sporting events, social functions, and other group events.
Serving as the primary liaison between the client and Hotel operating departments following the sales process, the Senior Conference Services Manager translates contracted program requirements into detailed operational plans and ensures that each event is executed accurately, efficiently, profitably, and in accordance with Hotel and Donohoe Hospitality Services standards.
This senior-level position requires an experienced hospitality professional who combines exceptional event management and client relationship skills with strong business acumen. The Senior Conference Services Manager is expected to maximize event revenue, identify upselling opportunities, optimize meeting space, monitor room blocks and food and beverage performance, strengthen repeat business, and serve as a mentor and resource to members of the Conference Services team.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
Conference & Event Management
  • Manage assigned groups from turnover through planning, event execution, departure, and post-event follow-up.
  • Serve as the primary planning contact for assigned clients and maintain consistent, proactive communication throughout the event lifecycle.
  • Confirm all event-related information with clients and translate requirements into clear and detailed operational instructions.
  • Prepare accurate and timely Banquet Event Orders (BEOs), group resumes, rooming information, floor plans, directives, and other event documentation.
  • Produce detailed Group Resumes on a weekly basis and communicate program requirements during appropriate Hotel operational meetings.
  • Coordinate meeting room assignments, setups, food and beverage requirements, audiovisual needs, vendor services, and other program logistics.
  • Develop and review floor plans to ensure effective use of space, appropriate event flow, operational efficiency, safety, and client satisfaction.
  • Ensure Banquets, Culinary, and the client are aligned on event requirements before execution.
  • Obtain final food and beverage guarantees within established deadlines and communicate significant attendance changes so that labor and food costs can be appropriately managed.
  • Conduct pre-conference meetings, planning meetings, site inspections, special events, and client presentations as appropriate.
  • Maintain a visible presence during major programs and peak event periods.
  • Anticipate operational challenges and proactively develop solutions before they negatively affect the client or guest experience.
  • Ensure all Conference Services checklists, procedures, and deadlines are consistently followed.

Client Relationship Management
  • Develop strong, professional relationships with meeting planners, event organizers, and key decision-makers.
  • Serve as a trusted advisor to clients throughout planning and execution.
  • Respond promptly and professionally to client questions, concerns, and changing program requirements.
  • Demonstrate creativity in translating the client's vision into an exceptional event experience.
  • Resolve service challenges professionally while protecting the client relationship and the Hotel's interests.
  • Review meeting planner feedback and recommend operational improvements designed to increase client satisfaction.
  • Actively participate in rebooking repeat business and identify future opportunities before group departure.
  • Build long-term client relationships that contribute to repeat and referral business.
  • Support initiatives designed to improve meeting planner evaluation scores and overall client satisfaction.

Revenue Management & Business Acumen
  • Identify and maximize opportunities to increase event revenue through strategic upselling of food and beverage, meeting room rental, audiovisual services, enhancements, and other Hotel services.
  • Optimize meeting room rental charges and event space utilization while maintaining client satisfaction.
  • Monitor the effective use of meeting space to maximize revenue potential.
  • Actively monitor assigned room blocks and food and beverage covers to improve forecasting accuracy.
  • Review group room pickup and communicate material changes to appropriate departments and Hotel leadership.
  • Understand the financial and operational impact of program changes and client requests.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of monthly forecasting and the annual budgeting process.
  • Protect the Hotel's financial interests while maintaining strong client relationships.
  • Support departmental revenue, profitability, guest satisfaction, and rebooking goals.

Operational Leadership
  • Work closely with Banquets, Culinary, Front Office, Reservations, Housekeeping, Engineering, Security, Sales, Accounting, audiovisual partners, and other departments to ensure seamless event execution.
  • Provide clear operational direction for all BEOs, group resumes, and event requirements generated through Conference Services.
  • Participate actively in BEO meetings, staff meetings, Sales meetings, Food & Beverage meetings, credit meetings, and other operational meetings as required.
  • Participate in audits of service-related communications and documentation for upcoming meetings and events.
  • Maintain working knowledge of Hotel services, amenities, features, and local attractions and activities.
  • Maintain knowledge of applicable liquor laws, fire codes, safety requirements, emergency procedures, and Hotel policies.
  • Respond promptly to guest and client needs regardless of business volume or time of day.
  • Escalate unresolved client or guest concerns to appropriate leadership.
  • Immediately report incidents, injuries, or property damage in accordance with Hotel and DHS procedures.
  • Contribute to departmental and Hotel projects as needed.

Audiovisual & Vendor Management
  • Coordinate effectively with the Hotel's audiovisual provider to support client requirements and successful event execution.
  • Understand audiovisual services as an important component of the overall event experience and revenue strategy.
  • Work effectively with outside vendors while ensuring compliance with Hotel policies, contractual requirements, safety standards, and operational procedures.
  • Monitor outside vendor performance to ensure client service expectations and Hotel standards are consistently achieved.
  • Review vendor relationships and agreements as assigned and communicate opportunities for improved pricing, service, or performance to the Director of Catering & Conference Services.

Senior-Level Leadership & Mentorship
  • Serve as a senior resource and role model within the Conference Services department.
  • Assist with the orientation, onboarding, and development of new Conference Services team members.
  • Mentor team members in event planning, client communication, operational execution, revenue optimization, organization, and problem resolution.
  • Provide guidance and support to Conference Services Managers when managing complex programs or challenging client situations.
  • Lead by example through professionalism, accountability, organization, communication, and a positive attitude.
  • Encourage effective teamwork and collaboration across departments.
  • Assist the Director of Catering & Conference Services with departmental projects and initiatives.
  • Participate in the development, review, and updating of departmental Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
  • Stay current on hospitality, meetings, events, technology, and Conference Services trends and best practices.
  • Pursue continued professional development through relevant industry education, networking, and training opportunities.

JOB KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES
The successful candidate will demonstrate:
  • Advanced knowledge of Conference Services, catering, banquet operations, and Hotel group operations.
  • Strong understanding of hotel sales techniques, revenue management, forecasting, and upselling.
  • Exceptional organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple complex programs and competing deadlines simultaneously.
  • Strong client relationship-building and negotiation skills.
  • Excellent analytical, decision-making, and problem-solving abilities.
  • Ability to quickly evaluate alternatives and determine an appropriate course of action.
  • Ability to remain composed and solutions-focused in stressful and high-pressure situations.
  • Excellent written, verbal, presentation, and interpersonal communication skills.
  • Professional executive presence and the ability to communicate effectively with clients, vendors, team members, and senior leadership.
  • Creativity in developing event setups, menus, experiences, and solutions.
  • Knowledge of large-scale corporate, association, sports, and special-event production.
  • Understanding of hotel operations and the interrelationship between Rooms, Food & Beverage, Sales, Conference Services, and other operating departments.
  • Ability to interpret client requirements and ensure contracted commitments are appropriately executed.
  • Excellent attention to detail and time-management skills.
  • Ability to coach, mentor, motivate, and positively influence peers and team members.
  • Ability to perform basic business mathematics and event-related calculations.
  • Strong proficiency with Microsoft Office, including Outlook, Word, and Excel.
  • Proficiency with hotel sales, catering, property-management, and event-management systems.
  • Strong Delphi experience preferred.

QUALIFICATIONS
  • Minimum of five (5) years of demonstrated Conference Services, Convention Services, Catering, Event Management, or comparable hotel experience at a similar-size and quality property.
  • Demonstrated experience independently managing complex conferences, meetings, and multi-day group programs.
  • Experience managing large-scale corporate, association, sports, or special events preferred.
  • Proven ability to develop strong client relationships and contribute to repeat and rebooked business.
  • Demonstrated ability to identify upselling opportunities and maximize event revenue.
  • Experience working collaboratively with Banquets, Culinary, Sales, Rooms, audiovisual providers, and outside vendors.
  • Strong Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and Delphi experience.
  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management, Business, Event Management, or a related field preferred.

WORK SCHEDULE & AVAILABILITY
Hospitality requires flexibility. The Senior Conference Services Manager must be available based on business and client needs, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, holidays, and special events.
Availability during peak operating periods, major conferences, and high-profile events is an essential expectation of this position.
WHAT SUCCESS LOOKS LIKE
Success in the Senior Conference Services Manager position will be demonstrated through:
  • Exceptional meeting planner and guest satisfaction.
  • Accurate and timely BEOs, group resumes, and event documentation.
  • Successful execution of complex and high-profile programs.
  • Proactive communication with clients and Hotel operating departments.
  • Effective management of room blocks and food and beverage forecasts.
  • Increased upselling and event revenue.
  • Effective utilization of meeting and event space.
  • Strong repeat and rebooking performance.
  • Timely and professional resolution of client and operational challenges.
  • Positive leadership and mentorship within the Conference Services team.
  • Consistent protection of the Hotel's reputation, guest experience, and financial interests.

OUR EXPECTATIONS
Every team member is expected to contribute to the success of The Hotel at the University of Maryland and Donohoe Hospitality Services by demonstrating professionalism, accountability, collaboration, responsiveness, integrity, and a commitment to exceptional hospitality.
The Senior Conference Services Manager is expected to lead by example, support colleagues across departments, participate in Hotel