The Cato Institute, a non-profit public policy research foundation headquartered in Washington, DC, seeks a Conference Operations Specialist to support the operations and administrative responsibilities for a variety of events managed by the Conference Team. This role includes managing the following responsibilities across 20+ events: creating key event planning documents, printing key event materials, overseeing supplies inventory, and coordinating shipments. This role will also provide on-site support for events held at Cato and throughout the country. This position is ideal for a detail-oriented, proactive professional who thrives in a fast-paced, event-driven environment.

This is a hybrid position in Washington, DC.

The projected salary range for this role is $55,000 - $70,000 per year. Compensation is based on the successful candidate's educational background, experience, and skills.

About Cato

The Cato Institute is a public policy research organization – a think tank – dedicated to the principles of individual liberty, limited government, free markets, and peace. Its scholars and analysts conduct independent, nonpartisan research on a wide range of policy issues.

Founded in 1977, Cato owes its name to Cato’s Letters, a series of essays published in 18th-century England that presented a vision of a society free from excessive government power. Those essays inspired the architects of the American Revolution. And the simple, timeless principles of that revolution – individual liberty, limited government, and free markets – turn out to be even more powerful in today’s world of global markets and unprecedented access to information than Jefferson or Madison could have imagined. Social and economic freedom is not just the best policy for a free people, it is the indispensable framework for the future.

The Cato Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Responsibilities

This position collaborates closely with multiple members of the Conference team to manage and execute the processes associated with the responsibilities outlined below across multiple events.

• Create key event documents which include registration websites, catering documents, audio-visual run of shows, timelines to upload to the project management system, and shipping lists.
• Manage the Conference department supplies, which include supply ordering and inventory management, arranging and overseeing shipping to events, and returning to inventory received shipments.
• Produce printed materials (including but not limited to badges, rosters, and place cards) and ensure their accuracy.
• Continuously update long-standing department event management records.
• Administer vendor payments and budget reconciliations.
• Provide additional assistance to the Conference Team as needed.
• On-site support for in-person events in Washington, DC, and throughout the country.

Education/ Experience

• A bachelor’s degree.
• 2+ years of events experience.
• Demonstrated success in managing multiple projects at one time.
• Demonstrated history of success in managing inventory and supplies.
• Project management experience is a plus.
• Knowledge of EMS, Social Tables, and Swoogo is a plus.
• An understanding of libertarian principles and Cato’s mission is preferred.

Skills/ Abilities

• Capable of effectively working in a fast-paced environment and meeting deadlines; manages time without constant supervision.
• Proactive and stay informed regarding upcoming tasks; easily adapts if the project changes scope.
• Highly effective communication and collaboration skills paired with exceptional attention to detail, quality, and accuracy.
• Organized, enthusiastic, efficient, and committed personality able to work independently and collaboratively.
• Strong customer service skills with a positive “can-do” attitude.
• Positive and professional demeanor at all times while working with staff, vendors, and attendees.
• Position requires 20% travel throughout the year and may increase.

Benefits

• All Cato employees are provided:
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Employer contribution to a Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Generous vacation and sick days
• Paid parental leave
• Employer-provided life and disability insurance
• 401(k) employer match
• Transit/ Parking benefits
• Pet discount plan

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. This position does not offer visa sponsorship.