BENTONVILLE, AR (January 31, 2022) – The Greater Bentonville Area Chamber of Commerce is searching for a Northwest Arkansas Tech Summit Director.

As a premier conference in this space, the NWA Tech Summit serves as a mechanism for the enhancement, preparation, and diversification of the NWA economy.

Vision

More than an event, the NWA Tech Summit is an experiential marketing tool. The Summit introduces top talent from across the country to the amenities and economic opportunities that

contribute to our region’s unique quality of life.

About the Position

Recruiting and retaining talent is integral to the success of the businesses – both large and small – that call our region home. The Director of the NWA Tech Summit will have the opportunity to

continue its evolution. This role reports directly to the President and CEO of the Greater Bentonville Area Chamber of Commerce. The person in this position will be a key member of a team that is engaged in developing and implementing cutting-edge economic development tools, tactics, and programs.

This Job is for…

Someone with a commitment to equity and a vision for growing the NWA Tech Summit into an ever-more inclusive platform for diverse entrepreneurs, technologists, and innovators.

Someone with knowledge of our region’s amenities – art, music, food, trails, aviation – and the ability to creatively incorporate them into tech-focused programming.

Someone with a collaborative mindset, who understands the value of working closely with community partners to develop an event reflective of our region’s evolving priorities.

Strategy

Build and deepen relationships with sponsors, volunteers, community leaders and other key stakeholders.

Develop programming that aligns with the mission of NWA Tech Summit.

Design a strategy that incorporates event press management as well as collateral for email, invitations, website, and newsletters.

Planning and Process

Create an event budget and roadmap for key deliverables for approval by Chamber President and CEO.

Source and negotiate contracts with vendors or partners. Set clear expectations, negotiate terms and conditions, manage expenses, and build strong relationships.

Maintain invitation database and provide strategic recommendations on additions or edits.

Lead regular meetings and distribute supporting materials: agendas, minutes, executive briefings, etc.

Provide consistent reporting.

Leverage best practices around delegation of authority.

With the Chamber’s Director of Marketing and Communications, develop and implement a strategic marketing plan.

Management and Execution

Secure grant and sponsorship support for the NWA Tech Summit and ancillary programs.

Manage various workstreams including content production, communications, invitations, etc.

Effectively communicate with Chamber leadership and/or NWA Tech Summit

Committee via regular updates and post-event analysis.

Personal Attributes that Support Your Success:

Service-oriented approach with a highlighted sense of accountability, empathy, and humility.

Unquestionable ethics and integrity. Demonstrated ability to protect privacy and maintain discretion in dealing with highly confidential information.

Strong organizational skills that reflect an ability to perform and prioritize multiple tasks seamlessly, with excellent attention to detail.

Highly resourceful team-player, solution-oriented, and comfortable operating with incomplete information.

Very strong interpersonal skills, professional demeanor, and ability to maintain grace under pressure when adapting to a rapidly changing environment, including re-prioritization or reassignment of responsibilities.

Intellectual agility and the ability to analyze and think critically.

Additional Helpful Experience Includes:

Fluency in relationship-centered fundraising.

Experience working in small-to-medium sized companies or a start-up environment.

Demonstrated record of designing, implementing, and running successful events.

Basic Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree

3+ years of experience in fundraising, project management, event planning, or related field.

Experience in operations management, programming experience and managing budgets.

Experience managing volunteers, committees, boards, and various stakeholders.