At the American Cancer Society, we're leading the fight for a world without cancer. Our employees and 1.5 million volunteers are raising the bar every single day. We actively seek candidates from diverse backgrounds including communities of color, the LGBTQ community, veterans, and people with disabilities. The greater the diversity of our people, the better we can serve our communities.

The people who work at the American Cancer Society focus their diverse talents on our lifesaving mission. It is a calling. And the people who answer it are fulfilled.

Sr. Associate, DEI Events and Special Projects at the American Cancer Society (ACS) is responsible for the strategic direction, planning, and execution of DEI-focused activities This role requires a seasoned professional with extensive experience in event and special project management, strategy development, and a strong commitment to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. This role must manage events and special projects of varying scope and complexity related to DEI and manage multiple events and projects simultaneously.

Sr. Associate, DEI Event Strategy and Events, will be instrumental in shaping the strategic direction of DEI events and special projects at ACS, driving engagement, and advancing the organization's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion through impactful experiences.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES

• Strategic Events and Special Projects Planning and Execution

  • Develop and implement comprehensive event plans for DEI and health equity-focused events and special projects, aligning with organizational, department, and partner/stakeholder goals and priorities.

  • Lead the conceptualization, planning, and execution of DEI events and special projects, ensuring alignment with ACS mission and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

  • Utilize innovative approaches and technology to enhance effectiveness and inclusivity.

• Stakeholder Engagement and Relationship Management

  • Cultivate and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, partners, and community organizations to enhance outcomes and support DEI initiatives.

  • Collaborate with internal DEI teams and external partners to leverage resources and maximize the impact of DEI events.

  • Serve as a primary liaison for DEI-related event/activity inquiries and partnerships.

• Operational Excellence and Financial Management

  • Oversee budget development and fiscal management for DEI events and special projects, ensuring fiscal responsibility and alignment with budgetary goals.

  • Develop, monitor, report event and project plan performance and metrics, analyzing data to inform decision-making and optimize DEI event and activity strategies throughout the lifecycle according to established procedures, channels and success expectations.

  • Implement best practices and processes to streamline event and activity operations and maximize efficiency and effectiveness.

• Leadership and Professional Development

  • Serve as a resource for best practices in event and activity management, demonstrating a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of work.

  • Continuously seek opportunities for professional growth and development, staying informed about industry trends and best practices in event and activity management and diversity, equity, and inclusion.

  • Oversee the recruitment, training, and management of employees, volunteers, partners, and stakeholders to support DEI events and special projects.

FORMAL KNOWLEDGE  

• Bachelor's degree in a related field; advanced degrees and certifications in project and event management or related fields (e.g., marketing and communications).

• Minimum of 8-10 years of experience in event management, with a proven track record of success in planning and executing large and small-scale events, preferably with a focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion.

• Demonstrated expertise in strategic planning, project management, and relationship building.

• Demonstrated success in utilizing technology and digital management platforms for events and special projects.

• Exceptional leadership abilities, with demonstrated success in leading cross-functional teams and collaborations.

• Demonstrated success in cultivating and maintaining relationships with diverse partners, stakeholders, sponsors, and community organizations.

• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and negotiation skills, with the ability to effectively engage and influence many stakeholders from diverse backgrounds.

• Proficient in budget development, fiscal management, and data analysis.

• In-depth knowledge of industry best practices in event management and diversity, equity, and inclusion.

• Proven track record as a motivated self-starter comfortable with charting new processes and innovating in a fast-paced, high-volume environment.

The starting rate is $78,000 to $90,000 annual. The final candidate's relevant experience/skills will be considered before an offer is extended. Actual starting pay will vary based on non-discriminatory factors including, but not limited to, geographic location, experience, skills, specialty, and education.

The American Cancer Society has adopted a vaccination policy that requires all staff, regardless of position or work location, to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 (except where prohibited by state law).

ACS provides staff a generous paid time off policy; medical, dental, retirement benefits, wellness programs, and professional development programs to enhance staff skills. Further details on our benefits can be found on our careers site at: jobs.cancer.org/benefits. We are a proud equal opportunity employer.