Event Planner

Vaco has partnered with a top client to identify an experienced Event Planner to join their team. In this role, you will be responsible for planning and executing an annual conference from start to finish. This is a long‑term contract opportunity with a variable schedule based on the event planning cycle. Hours will average 5–10 per week from April through October and increase to 30–40 per week from October through April as conference activities ramp up. The position offers a pay rate of up to $50 per hour. Responsibilities Lead planning, budgeting, contracting, execution, and post‑event activities for the annual Conference. Manage event logistics, including venues, vendors, audiovisual services, staffing, volunteers, attendee platforms, and on‑site operations. Coordinate organizational programs and events, serving as the primary liaison among Board committees, sponsors, speakers, contractors, and volunteers. Develop and oversee the annual operating budget, financial reporting, forecasting, and accounts payable/receivable in partnership with Board leadership and the CPA. Ensure financial activities align with Board‑approved priorities and organizational goals. Oversee marketing, communications, and brand management, including website and promotional content. Develop and manage sponsorship strategies and relationships to support conference and organizational objectives. Support Board committees in the planning, execution, and continuous improvement of organizational programs and events. Qualifications Experience working within or in close collaboration with the startup, entrepreneurial, innovation, or technology ecosystem. Familiarity with venture capital, angel investing, private equity, or early‑stage company financing through professional experience or sustained community involvement. Experience working with founders, investors, accelerators, incubators, or economic development organizations. Understanding of how conferences and events support deal flow, ecosystem building, education, and relationship development within the startup and investment community. Compensation & Benefits Pay rate up to $50 per hour. Eligibility for discretionary bonuses. Medical, dental, and vision coverage, and participation in the company 401(k) retirement plan are also offered. EEO Notice Vaco by Highspring is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex (includes pregnancy or related conditions), religion or creed, national origin, citizenship, age, disability, status as a veteran, union membership, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, political affiliation, or any other protected characteristics as required by federal, state or local law. Vaco by Highspring also wants all applicants to know their rights that workplace discrimination is illegal. #J-18808-Ljbffr Vaco