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Conference Services Manager Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Creative Dining Services

Catering Manager

Sioux Center, IA · On-site

$47K - $52K/yr

The Catering Manager works within the Dining Services Department to ensure that excellence in ... Works in conjunction with production, conference services, and sales staff to plan and coordinate ...

Aramark

Catering Services Manager

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

The Catering Services Manager is a leadership position which leads all aspects of catering solutions and special events at the location. This position will lead the Catering team to complete events ...

Aramark

Catering Services Manager

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

The Catering Services Manager is a leadership position which leads all aspects of catering solutions and special events at the location. This position will lead the Catering team to complete events ...

Aramark

Catering Services Manager

Cedar Rapids, IA

The Catering Services Manager is a leadership position which leads all aspects of catering solutions and special events at the location. This position will lead the Catering team to complete events ...

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All JobsConference Services JobsConference Services Manager JobsConference Services Manager Jobs in Iowa

Conference Services Manager information

See Iowa salary details

$37.6K

$58.2K

$76.1K

How much do conference services manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for conference services manager in Iowa is $58,197.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,400.00 and $66,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by conference services managers, and how are they typically addressed?

Conference Services Managers often navigate challenges such as last-minute changes to event schedules, coordinating multiple vendors, and managing client expectations. To address these, strong organizational skills, clear communication, and proactive contingency planning are essential. They work closely with clients, event staff, and service providers to ensure smooth execution, and regularly debrief with teams to improve processes for future events. Flexibility and quick problem-solving are key to succeeding in this dynamic role.

What does a conference services manager do?

As a conference services manager, your primary responsibilities involve planning and supervising conferences in a variety of industries. Your duties include facilitating meetings with event representatives and committees to discuss catering, budgeting, and other services, such as entertainment, that may be needed. You may coordinate conferences or conventions in a venue like a hotel or a university, handle event staffing, and ensure vendors provide satisfactory service. You may also draft or sign contractual agreements, maintain meeting minutes and other communication records, and supervise events to solve any issues that arise.

What does a conference services manager do?

A Conference Services Manager is responsible for coordinating and managing all aspects of events and conferences held at a venue, such as hotels or convention centers. Their duties include working with clients to determine event requirements, organizing logistics, managing budgets, and ensuring all services—from catering to audio-visual needs—are delivered smoothly. They act as the main point of contact between clients and the venue, ensuring that all details are executed as planned and the event runs successfully.

What is the difference between Conference Services Manager vs Event Coordinator?

AspectConference Services ManagerEvent Coordinator
CredentialsRelevant hospitality or event management certifications, experience in venue servicesEvent planning certifications or experience, often less specialized
Work EnvironmentHotels, conference centers, corporate venuesVarious settings including corporate, nonprofit, or private events
Employer & IndustryHotels, conference centers, event venuesEvent planning firms, corporate clients, nonprofits
Primary FocusOverseeing venue services, coordinating logistics for conferencesPlanning and executing individual events

The Conference Services Manager primarily manages venue logistics and ensures smooth conference operations, often working within hotels or conference centers. In contrast, the Event Coordinator focuses on planning and executing specific events, which may include a variety of event types. Both roles require strong organizational skills, but the Conference Services Manager typically has a more specialized focus on venue management and client coordination.

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

To thrive as a Conference Services Manager, you need strong organizational skills, event planning experience, and a relevant degree such as hospitality management or business. Familiarity with event management software, property management systems, and audio-visual equipment is typically required. Exceptional communication, negotiation, and problem-solving abilities help build client relationships and manage on-site challenges. These skills ensure seamless event execution, high client satisfaction, and the ability to adapt to dynamic event environments.
More about Conference Services Manager jobs
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Conference Services Manager jobs near you

MIU Guest & Conference Center Director

Maharishi International University

Fairfield, IA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

Director of Guest & Conference Center and Transportation Services

About the Role

The Director of Guest & Conference Center and Transportation Services provides strategic leadership and operational oversight for the Guest & Conference Center (GCC) and University Transportation Services at Maharishi International University (MIU). This position is responsible for the planning, management, and continuous improvement of guest services, conference operations, event logistics, transportation services, and facility operations.

Working collaboratively with University leadership and campus departments, the Director ensures exceptional customer service, efficient operations, financial stewardship, regulatory compliance, and alignment with the University's mission and strategic priorities.

Essential Responsibilities

  • Provide leadership and oversee the daily operations of the Guest & Conference Center and University Transportation Services, ensuring alignment with the University's mission and operational goals.
  • Plan, coordinate, and oversee guest services, conference operations, event logistics, room scheduling, transportation services, and facility operations to ensure efficient, high-quality service delivery.
  • Develop and implement departmental policies, procedures, service standards, and operational strategies that promote customer service, safety, compliance, and continuous improvement.
  • Prepare and manage departmental budgets, monitor financial performance, identify cost-saving opportunities, and support revenue-generating initiatives.
  • Lead, supervise, coach, and evaluate departmental staff while fostering a collaborative, customer-focused, and high-performing work environment.
  • Oversee transportation operations, fleet management, driver scheduling, vendor relationships, vehicle maintenance, and compliance with applicable federal, state, local, and University regulations.
  • Collaborate with University leadership, campus departments, and external partners to support academic programs, conferences, special events, and institutional initiatives.
  • Oversee facility maintenance, capital improvement projects, technology systems, and operational resources to enhance efficiency and the guest experience.
  • Analyze operational performance, implement process improvements, and utilize data to support informed decision-making and service excellence.

Minimum Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Hospitality Management, Transportation Management, Higher Education Administration, or a related field.
  • Seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience in hospitality, conference services, operations, transportation management, facilities management, or a related field, including supervisory experience.
  • Demonstrated experience managing budgets, operations, and staff.
  • Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
  • Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving abilities.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint).

Preferred Qualifications

  • Master's degree (MBA, MPA, or related graduate degree).
  • Experience in higher education, conference services, hospitality, or transportation operations.
  • Experience with scheduling systems, databases, or transportation management software.
  • Knowledge of transportation regulations, fleet management, and safety compliance.
  • Experience leading operational improvements and technology initiatives.

Skills and Competencies

  • Leadership and organizational management
  • Hospitality, conference, and event operations
  • Transportation and fleet management
  • Budget development and financial management
  • Project management and operational planning
  • Process improvement and strategic problem-solving
  • Strong customer service and stakeholder relationship management
  • Excellent communication, collaboration, and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and operational management systems

Learn more about MIU