Description

About Us
The American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO.org), the world’s largest association of eye physicians and surgeons, hosts the premier ophthalmic meeting and Expo in the world—attracting 20,000 attendees and more than 300 exhibiting companies. The Scientific Program Team manages 5,000 presenters, 30 course and session rooms, 500 posters, and a virtual meeting running simultaneously to enable attendees worldwide to receive continuing medical education.

Position Summary
The Event Program Manager, Scientific Meetings (CMP) [internally titled Technical Programs Manager] is a key member of AAO’s Scientific Program Team. This role is first and foremost an event planning position—requiring deep expertise in meeting management, logistics, vendor coordination, and onsite execution.

The Event Program Manager oversees the Skills Transfer Courses at the Annual Meeting (51 hands-on labs and 28 didactic sessions). These programs are highly complex and logistically intensive, requiring multi-room setups, equipment coordination with 50+ vendors, and management of temporary event staff. While medical/scientific content will be taught on the job, you must bring proven event planning expertise and CMP certification to succeed.

This position also manages several critical Annual Meeting services, including freight, first aid, the EyePlay Lounge, and sustainability initiatives.

Key Responsibilities
Skills Transfer Program (50%)

• Lead planning and scheduling for 50+ hands-on labs and didactic sessions.
• Partner with course directors, physician leaders, and committees to deliver programs.
• Coordinate equipment and supplies with 50+ industry partners.
• Supervise 5 room supervisors and 10–20 temporary assistants onsite.
• Ensure safety, compliance, and seamless attendee experience.

Meeting Services (20%)

• Oversee vendor contracts and staffing for first aid.
• Manage freight logistics, scheduling, and onsite coordination.
• Coordinate staff uniforms and onsite distribution.

EyePlay Lounge (10%)

• Develop and implement the interactive EyePlay space, including floorplans, content, budget, and staffing.

Specialty Programs (10%)

• Partner with physician groups (e.g., AUPO SCOR, Cornea Society) to plan and implement labs.
• Oversee ticketing, room setup, compliance, and staff.

Sustainability (10%)

• Liaise with sustainability vendor to reduce meeting waste.
• Collaborate with AAO’s Sustainability Committee and venue teams.

Qualifications
CMP (Certified Meeting Professional) strongly preferred.
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.
5+ years of experience in event/meeting management (association or healthcare preferred).
Demonstrated expertise in logistics, vendor management, and contract negotiation.
Strong budget and project management skills.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and databases.
Excellent communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
Ability to supervise and motivate event staff and contractors.

Other Requirements
Travel required (6–12 days annually).
Hybrid schedule: 40% in office.
Occasional evening/weekend work during events.

Compensation: Annual Salary $123,518 plus excellent benefits.

How to Apply: Submit your application via our careers page: aao.org/jobs.