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$29K

$78.5K

$129K

How much do director event jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for director event in the United States is $78,450.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,000.00 and $97,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the role of the director?

A director is responsible for overseeing the planning, coordination, and execution of events, ensuring they meet objectives and stay within budget. They manage teams, coordinate with vendors, and handle logistics, often requiring strong leadership and organizational skills. The role may also involve strategic planning and compliance with safety regulations.

Is a director higher than a CEO?

A director is typically a senior management role responsible for overseeing specific departments or functions within a company, while a CEO (Chief Executive Officer) is the highest-ranking executive responsible for overall company strategy and decision-making. Generally, the CEO holds a higher position than a director in the organizational hierarchy.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Director of Events, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Director of Events, you need expertise in event planning, project management, and budgeting, usually backed by a degree in hospitality, marketing, or a related field. Proficiency in event management software, CRM systems, and familiarity with contract negotiation are often required, along with certifications like CMP (Certified Meeting Professional) being advantageous. Exceptional leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help you manage teams, vendors, and client expectations. These skills ensure seamless event execution, client satisfaction, and the ability to handle complex logistical challenges.

What is a synonym for director?

A synonym for director, especially in a job context like a Director of Events, includes terms such as manager, supervisor, leader, or coordinator. These roles involve overseeing planning, execution, and team management for events or projects, often requiring strong organizational and leadership skills.

How does a Director of Events typically collaborate with internal teams and external vendors to ensure successful event execution?

A Director of Events works closely with internal teams such as marketing, sales, and operations to align event objectives with overall business goals. They also engage with external vendors—including caterers, audiovisual specialists, and venues—to coordinate logistics, negotiate contracts, and oversee timelines. Regular meetings, clear communication channels, and detailed project management tools are essential in this role to ensure everyone is on the same page and potential issues are addressed proactively. This collaborative approach helps deliver seamless events that meet or exceed stakeholder expectations.

What is the meaning of a director?

A director is a senior management role responsible for overseeing a department, project, or organization’s strategic goals and operations. In the context of event planning, a director typically manages teams, coordinates resources, and ensures the successful execution of events, often requiring leadership skills and industry knowledge.

What does a Director of Events do?

A Director of Events is responsible for overseeing the planning, coordination, and execution of events for an organization. They manage event budgets, negotiate contracts, supervise event staff, and ensure all aspects of events run smoothly. Directors of Events often collaborate with marketing, sales, and external vendors to deliver successful events that meet organizational goals. Their role requires strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills.

What is the difference between Director Event vs Event Manager?

AspectDirector EventEvent Manager
CredentialsBachelor's degree in Hospitality, Marketing, or related field; extensive experienceBachelor's degree; some certifications like CMP or CSEP beneficial
Work EnvironmentStrategic planning, overseeing multiple events, high-level decision makingExecuting event plans, coordinating logistics, on-site management
Employer & Industry UsageCorporate, non-profit, large event companiesEvent planning firms, corporate events, conferences

The main difference between a Director Event and an Event Manager lies in scope and responsibility. Directors focus on strategic oversight and high-level planning, while Event Managers handle the day-to-day logistics and execution of events. Both roles require relevant credentials and experience, but Directors typically operate at a higher managerial level within organizations or agencies.

More about Director Event jobs
What cities are hiring for Director Event jobs? Cities with the most Director Event job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Event jobs? The most popular types of Event jobs are:
What states have the most Director Event jobs? States with the most job openings for Director Event jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Director Event jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Director Event jobs are:
Director Event jobs near you
Infographic showing various Director Event job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,450 per year, or $37.7 per hour.
Manager, Event Operations

Manager, Event Operations

Institute of Food Technologists

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

We are seeking an experienced events professional who brings strong project management expertise and a passion for stewarding the many details that make meaningful events possible. At the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT), you will work alongside dedicated colleagues and trusted partners to deliver best in class events that advance our mission. We value your voice and encourage you to contribute your experience, share new ideas, and leverage technology to drive continuous improvement. If you are a strong communicator with a service oriented mindset and a proven ability to execute with excellence, this role offers an opportunity to do impactful work and thrive.
WHO WE ARE:
Since 1939, the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) has served as the voice of the global food science community. IFT advocates for science, technology, and research to address the world's greatest food challenges, guiding our community of more than 200,000. IFT convenes professionals from around the world - from producers and product developers to innovators and researchers across food, nutrition, and public health - with a shared mission to help create a global food supply that is sustainable, safe, nutritious, and accessible to all. IFT provides its growing community spanning academia, industry, and government with the resources, connections, and opportunities necessary to stay ahead of a rapidly evolving food system as IFT helps feed the minds that feed the world. For more information, please visit https://www.ift.org.
POSITION OVERVIEW:
Reporting to the Director, Event Operations, the Manager, Event Operations is responsible for assisting with delivering on the successful logistical operations of IFT events and meetings, including Board of Directors meetings and the IFT FIRST Annual Event and Expo. This position requires meticulous attention to detail, superior organizational skills, and an ability to collaborate interdepartmentally while building robust working relationships with IFT vendors and partners. The Manager, Event Operations will work alongside the Director, Event Operations and will utilize their strong financial acumen and high responsiveness to ensure meetings and events are conducted within budget and on time.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Works collaboratively with the CEO and Executive Governance and Business Administrator to lead planning efforts for the Board of Directors meeting logistics, including lodging, transportation, F&B, meeting space selection, etc.
• Partners with cross-functional teams to understand their event operation needs, provides strategic recommendations, and owns end-to-end execution based on aligned plans
• Manages the full housing process, including room block tracking, reporting, hotel rebates invoicing and tracking, and coordination of VIP and staff accommodations, in partnership with the Director of Operations and the designated housing service provider
• Manages IFT's Hotel Points Program, overseeing coordination, monitoring usage, and ensuring alignment with event travel needs and budgetary guidelines
• Participates in contract negotiations for various IFT events
• Collaborates with the Director, Event Operations to contribute to a comprehensive event emergency and crisis plan, in addition to health and safety plans, as needed
• Manages planning and logistics in coordination with IFT's designated shuttle provider(s), ensuring efficient transportation services for event attendees
• Coordinates logistics of the IFT FIRST ancillary events (Fun Run, Belonging Bash, Professional Networking Event, etc.), as well as other IFT-hosted events at IFT FIRST
• Leads and manages staff scheduling, including oversight of onsite temporary staff schedules, to ensure adequate coverage and operational efficiency
• Partners closely with the Sales team to ensure sponsor agreements are accurately executed and fulfilled at IFT FIRST
• Works cross-functionally to provide input into post-event overviews and analysis, including reporting, invoicing, survey analysis, and future recommendations
• Effectively manages vendor relationships to ensure alignment with organizational goals and achievement of agreed-upon outcomes
• Creates and updates event operations standard operating procedures, as necessary
• Ensures compliance with industry and legal regulations and best practices, and adherence to company processes and procedures
• Assists with shipping for annual event
• Keeps current with evolving technology, tools, and best practices, applying new knowledge to optimize existing processes and workflows
WHAT WE OFFER:
• The hiring pay range for this role is $85,000 - 100,000/per year. (Commensurate with experience and qualifications.)
• Bonus eligibility (Based on annual performance and board approval.)
• 401k and annual profit sharing (Based on IFT's financial standing.)
• Hybrid work environment
• Flexible schedule with a 40-hour work week
• (3) weeks' vacation plus a paid winter break at the end of December
• Sick time/Personal and Floating days/Paid Holidays
• Medical (BC/BS), dental, and vision plans at affordable rates.
• Employer paid Life Insurance and Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Professional Development
• Employee Assistance Program
• Onsite Wellness Center (Unlimited fitness classes, state of the art amenities, personal training, nutrition counseling and more!)
• Online discount marketplace (Pet Insurance. Identity Theft. Vacations. Tickets to concerts. Gym memberships. Local restaurants. Car rentals. Supplements. Clothing. TVs. Coffee. Jewelry, etc.)
• Most benefits begin the first of the month following employee's start date. IFT offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to reward and energize our employees, so they can live a balanced life and maintain their well-being. Please visit this link for additional benefit information https://www.ift.org/about-us/our-story/work-at-ift
WHAT WE REQUIRE:
• 5+ years of experience or demonstrated competency in hotel, meetings, trade shows, or exhibits management
• 5+ years of experience or demonstrated competency in project management
• 5+ years of experience or demonstrated competency using and managing database systems
PREFERRED EXPERIENCE:
• Bachelor's degree in business, marketing, hospitality, event management or equivalent preferred
• Experience with a health or scientific organization and/or prior experience in association meetings and events
• Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) designation
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suites
• Effective written and verbal communication
• In-depth hands-on experience in end-to-end event planning and management
• Experience developing and managing event budgets, expense tracking, budget monitoring and post event invoice reconciliation
FOR CONSIDERATION:
For consideration, please apply by submitting your resume and cover letter.
Institute of Food Technologists is an equal opportunity employer.
AI may have been used during the recruiting process. Please visit https://www.hrsource.org/HRS/About/Recruiting_AI_Use_Notice.aspx to learn how.

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