Speaker Program Manager

The World Affairs Council of Dallas/Fort Worth is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that has been engaging the world here in North Texas since 1951, creating connections, generating ideas, and inspiring action in all we do. As we celebrate our 75th anniversary year, we are ready to welcome a full-time, high-energy, detail-oriented, multi-tasking team player to create and manage public speaker programs as we fulfill our nonpartisan mission to educate citizens about geopolitical trends, issues, and our nation’s foreign policy.

Knowledge of our government’s strategy in dealing with other nations, international issues, trade, geopolitical tensions, national issues, and history is the top requirement to strategically assemble a compelling and attractiveannualschedule ofprogramsfor our members and the public. This position originates our strategic public programs (~60annually) of lectures,panels,dinners, socials, and two annual fundraising events. This is not an entry-level position; it requires 3-5 years of experience in planning, multitasking and project management, within the international affairs or non-profit space.

This position collaborates on the programs team’s execution of travel arrangements, budget, marketing, and event management logistics and leaders across the organization. Superb written and verbal communication skills, tact, and diplomacy for frequent interaction with members, directors, publishers, high-level government and NGO contacts, and speakers are essential. Attendance at the Council’s public events is required, including morning, lunch, and evening events.

Limited weekend work required.

Further requirements include the ability to successfully perform detailed reporting and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team to meet deadlines. Event production management skills and nonprofit experience are a plus. Knowledge of the geopolitical landscape,an understanding of our country’s role in world events, a passion for ongoing learning and an ability to navigate this space in a nonpartisan approach are critical for success.

To apply, email your resume and a cover letter to Martha Powell, Chief of Staff, lications without a cover letter and resume will not be considered.

• Vision and strategy of public program portfolio to appeal to various sections of membership, sponsors and stakeholders, community organizations and various members of the public.
• Oversee full lifecycle of speaker management, from idea to event to fulfill our mission of educating the public about international and national affairs, then schedules, budgets,andmanagesthose speaker events in concert with partner program manager and the director of programs and marketing. Maintain appropriate standing invitations to targeted White House and governmental speakers.
• Works with P/CEO, director of programs & marketing, staff, and sponsors on program and series concepts, and drafting letters of invitation.
• Work with membership & development department to engage our corporate partners in our speaker programs.
• Support and steward relationships with event venues, community organization partners, businesses, and publishing contact relationships.
• Within programs department, co-ownership of event execution, including ownership of event remarks, and speaker and topic research.
• Co-manage two fundraising events (Mallon Award Dinner and International Educator of the Year Award), including logistics and promotion.
• Organize Council membership-only programs including socials, Global Forum, Contributors’ Circle events, and travel programs.
• Acts independently and in concert with director of programs and marketing and the P/CEO. Constant diplomacy and interaction with members, board directors, and high-profile speakers/guests.
• Co-supervise interns, assigning tasks as needed.
• Along with frequent evening, lunch and breakfast programs outside of normal business hours, including occasional weekend programs, some periodic travel may be required, e.g. meeting with publishers or think tank contacts in Washington, DC or New York.

• Bachelor’s degree required; preference given to majors in…