Program & Events Manager

About the Organization

The Foundation for Advanced Education in the Sciences (FAES) is an entrepreneurial non-profit organization located at the National Institute of Health (NIH) in Bethesda, Maryland. We design and deliver advanced educational programs and activities that enhance professional life and productivity on NIH campuses. As a small but mighty team, we rely on integrity, ingenuity, and a strong sense of purpose to make a lasting impact. Our work environment is collaborative, fast-paced, and deeply rewarding, with a generous benefits package.
Position Overview

The Program & Events Manager is responsible for leading all efforts to plan and execute a wide range of in-person, hybrid, and virtual programs and events from small meetings to large-scale initiatives with poise and professionalism. This role manages logistics, vendors, budgets, and timelines while also supporting marketing, communications, and administrative operations. The Program and Events Manager must be able to lead both small and large teams as program and event support needs and volume changes. Occasional travel to off-site events is required. This position works with leadership to understand departmental needs and tailor events accordingly.

This is a highly visible role that serves as a key liaison between the NIH community, vendors, partners, and internal staff. The ideal candidate is organized, proactive, detail-oriented, and comfortable managing multiple priorities in a dynamic environment. This role requires strong organizational skills, communication abilities, and the ability to work under pressure and manage processes with little oversight. This position blends special program execution, event planning, with marketing and administrative operations.

This role requires you to successfully pass an NIH background check.

Key Responsibilities

• Program & Event Management
• Lead the planning, coordinate and execute programs and events from concept through completion
• Manage logistics including venues, catering, A/V, speakers, travel, and on-site support
• Develop and maintain event flow, timelines and checklists
• Recruit, train, and oversee contractors and temporary event staff
• Negotiate vendor contracts and manage relationships with vendors and speakers
• Track budgets, process invoices, and coordinate payments with accounting
• Prepare post-event summaries, reports, and metrics for leadership and Board use
• Partner with the Director of Administration on NIH collaborations and partnerships

Marketing & Communications

• Support promotional efforts including email campaigns, newsletters, and social media
• Coordinate with marketing and website contractors to ensure accurate and timely updates
• Assist with the development of digital and print collateral for programs and events
• Ensure all marketing and communication materials comply with regulations and standards

Administrative & Operations Support

• Provide general administrative support and backup front desk coverage as needed
• Maintain program records, contact lists, and internal documentation
• Support senior leadership with scheduling, logistics, and reporting

Qualifications

• Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills
• Excellent attention to detail and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Professional, customer-focused demeanor with strong interpersonal skills
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion
• Experience hiring and managing seasonal or temporary staff
• Proficiency in Microsoft 365, Zoom, and Adobe Acrobat
• Experience with event registration or project management tools preferred

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree preferred
• 5+ years of experience in event planning, program coordination, or administrative operations
• Experience in nonprofit, higher education, or similar environments a plus

Benefits

• 100% employer-paid medical and dental insurance
• Generous paid time off and holidays
• Tuition reimbursement and professional development support
• Retirement plan with employer contribution
• Travel mileage reimbursement

Work Environment

This role requires working onsite three to four days per week, with occasional evening or after-hours event support. Must be able to lift up to 25 lbs., stand for extended periods during events, and assist with setup and breakdown of event materials.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

The Foundation for Advanced Education in the Sciences (FAES) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunity to all applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local law. FAES also provides reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with applicable laws.