Director of Connected Experiences - Events
ICF NEXT is seeking a Connected Experiences Director, a strategic leader with a passion for delivering exceptional events. This role requires a deep understanding of industry trends, emerging technologies, and client needs to ensure the delivery of high-quality and impactful events. The Connected Experiences Director will lead and inspire ICF NEXT’s events team, fostering a culture of excellence and collaboration while shaping the future of our event services. Responsibilities include managing the event services budget, which covers team training, investments in new technologies, and other resources that enhance ICF NEXT’s capabilities and maintain our competitive edge.
Additionally, the Connected Experiences Director will play a key role in building and maintaining strong relationships with clients, suppliers, and internal stakeholders, ensuring seamless event execution and contributing to ICF NEXT’s success.
Main Responsibilities:
1. Team Leadership & Management
o Provide clear direction, delegate effectively, and offer ongoing support to ensure individual and team success.
o Develop and implement a comprehensive resource plan to ensure the necessary staff and skills to deliver successful events.
o Foster a culture of collaboration, excellence, and inclusion aligned with ICF Next's values.
o Oversee HR activities (labour plans, compensation management, performance evaluations, compliance with HR policies and procedures).
2. Scale Event Operations
o Develop and implement a talent management strategy to effectively scale the team, including recruitment, onboarding, and retention of top talent.
o Assess current team capabilities and project future needs to ensure adequate staffing and resources to meet the demands of a growing portfolio.
o Adapt team structure and processes as needed to accommodate growth and maintain high performance.
3. Event Service Delivery
o Ensure high-quality work that meets high professional standards and client expectations by:
o Enforcing strong processes for the delivery of event services
o Closely monitoring key projects that require special attention
o Helping the team quickly resolve critical issues.
o Ensure full compliance and respect of FWC rules
o Act as Events Lead Expert and a point of contact and escalation in terms of the overall event services delivery to ICF Next’s clients and Account Directors.
4. Financial Management
o Oversee and ensure accurate financial management of all event projects:
o Work closely with the Events Team and the ICF Next financial team to establish and monitor budgets for each event.
o Implement robust financial tracking systems to monitor expenses, ensure cost efficiency, and maintain profitability.
o Analyse financial data and key performance indicators (KPIs) to identify areas for improvement and cost optimisation.
o Provide regular financial reporting to stakeholders, ensuring transparency and accountability in event budget management.
5. Suppliers
o Manage strategic relationships with event suppliers.
o Negotiate favourable contract terms and service level agreements, ensuring value for money.
o Function as the primary escalation point for resolving any major issues or disputes with suppliers.
o Continuously evaluate suppliers’ performance to optimise service delivery and cost-effectiveness.
6. Trends & Innovation
o Continuously analyse industry trends and emerging technologies to identify opportunities to enhance ICF Next's event capabilities and maintain a competitive edge. This includes developing recommendations for investments in new technologies, resources, and training, and leading the implementation of approved initiatives.
7. Marketing & Promotion
o Collaborate with the ICF marketing team to promote ICF Next’s event services offering.
o Promote the Events Team's projects and services at internal events.
Requirements:
* Demonstrated experience in leading and managing high-performing events teams.
* Extensive track record & experience in planning, executing and overseeing a diverse range of events, including budget management, risk assessment, and quality control.
* Solid understanding of financial management principles, including budgeting, forecasting, and cost control. Experience managing departmental budgets is a plus.
* Proven ability to build and maintain strong relationships with clients, understand their needs, and deliver exceptional service.
* Experience working with EU institutions and the European Commission is desirable, but not essential.
* Experience with both virtual and hybrid events is highly desirable.
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively communicate with diverse audiences, including senior management, clients, and suppliers.
* Proven ability to analyse complex situations, identify solutions, and make sound decisions under pressure.
* A strong interest in emerging event technologies and trends.
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