ABOUT THIS POSITION

The Director of Trade Shows + Events will be responsible for the strategic planning and execution of all trade shows, user groups, and external events. The ideal candidate will have a track record of delivering impactful, high-ROI events.

They must be an excellent communicator who is able to aggregate information from multiple stakeholders to create a shared marketing vision in support of organizational goals. The right candidate is a self-starter with the ability to toggle between leading the strategy and leading cross-functional teams to bring the strategy to life. The person leading this team should be a team player, with the ability to independently lead projects.

WHAT YOU'LL DO

·         Develop and implement a comprehensive events strategy that aligns with the company's marketing objectives and business goals. Identify key industry events, trade shows, and conferences that provide brand visibility, revenue growth, and networking opportunities.

·         Propel results with creative strategies. Get the most out of events by creating memorable experiences, integrated with campaigns and other cross-functional initiatives to maximize results.    

·         Ideate impactful experiences, with our brand in mind. Ensure that all events reflect the company’s brand values and messaging. Oversee the design and branding of event booths, displays, promotional materials, and online presence.

·         Oversee the full lifecycle of event management, from initial concept to logistics and execution to post-event analysis. Leverage historical data to plan high-impact strategies.

·         Lead and mentor an event coordinator and external vendors to ensure the successful execution of events. Foster a collaborative and results-driven environment.

·         Build and maintain relationships with event vendors, venues, and contractors. Negotiate contracts, ensure cost-effective solutions, and manage vendor performance to meet event objectives.

·         Create and manage event budgets, ensuring events are executed within financial constraints while maximizing ROI. Track and report on event expenses, ensuring transparency and financial accountability.

·         Work closely with Sales, Marketing, and Channel to develop event messaging, marketing collateral, and promotional strategies. Ensure alignment of event goals with overall business objectives.

·         Collaborate with Sales and Marketing teams to develop strategies to drive booth attendance, on-site demos, and post-event follow-up. Establish metrics for event success and provide detailed reports on ROI, including audience engagement, leads generated, and brand exposure.

·         Conduct post-event debriefs and evaluations to assess successes and areas for improvement. Provide recommendations for future events and report on key performance metrics to senior leadership.

WHAT YOU'LL NEED

• Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Business, Event Management, or related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• 7+ years of experience in event planning and management, with at least 3-5 years in a leadership or managerial role.
• Proven experience organizing large-scale trade shows, conferences, or corporate events.
• Ability to travel frequently, including potential overnight stays for on-site event management.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple events simultaneously while maintaining high attention to detail.
• Strong project management and organizational skills.
• Excellent leadership, team-building, and mentoring abilities.
• Exceptional communication and negotiation skills.
• Proficiency in event management software (e.g., iCapture, Calendly, ExhibitForce) and MS Office Suite.
• Budgeting and financial management expertise.
• Creative and strategic thinker with an eye for innovative event concepts.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work under pressure.
• Results-driven, with a focus on achieving measurable outcomes.
• Adaptable and able to thrive in a fast-paced, changing environment.
• Collaborative mindset with the ability to work cross-functionally and influence key stakeholders.

BONUS POINTS

• High-level of enthusiasm and organizational skills
• Self-motivated, ability to work with little or no oversight while possessing a solution seeking attitude
• Highly accountable; taking full ownership of event strategies and execution
• Excellent oral and written communication skills with great attention to detail

WAYSTAR PERKS

• Competitive total rewards (base salary + bonus, if applicable)
• Customizable benefits package (3 medical plans with Health Saving Account company match)
• We offer generous paid time off for our non-exempt team members, starting with 3 weeks + 13 paid holidays, including 2 personal floating holidays. We also offer flexible time off for our exempt team members + 13 paid holidays
• Paid parental leave (including maternity + paternity leave)
• Education assistance opportunities and free LinkedIn Learning access
• Free mental health and family planning programs, including adoption assistance and fertility support
• 401(K) program with company match
• Pet insurance
• Employee resource groups

Waystar is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. We celebrate, value, and support diversity and inclusion. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, marital status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

This applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.