Business Law - Senior Meeting Planner

ABA Chicago, 321 North Clark, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America Job Description Posted Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at 5:00 AM The American Bar Association (ABA) was founded on a commitment to advance the rule of law in the United States and beyond by providing practical resources for legal professionals, conducting law school accreditation, developing model ethics codes and more. Today, the ABA remains a member-based organization that works to ensure access to justice for all, a fair legal process, and respect for the rule of law at home and across the globe. The ABA is committed to service and refining the standards that guide the legal profession. ABA staff are provided multiple types of continuing education and career development opportunities. Your work will help eliminate bias, enhance diversity, and advance the rule of law throughout the US and around the world. The ABA recognizes the value staff contribute to our success through a generous benefits package that protects their health and their financial security. The ABA’s wide array of benefit offerings include 401(k), medical, dental, vision, flexible spending accounts, health spending accounts, supplemental life and disability insurance, prepaid legal programs, and a complimentary membership to the American Bar Association, which offers additional benefits. Flexible/hybrid work arrangements may be available for residents of CA, DC, IL, IN, MD, MI, MN, TX, VA, and WI. Residency requirements may apply. ABA employees are eligible to apply for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF). Job Summary/General Purpose of Job This individual will independently manage and plan complex conferences as guided by the strategic plan and as directed by the Meetings and/or Section Director. This may include hotel selection and vendor contract negotiations, development of budgets and project timelines, development of detailed game plans for event logistics, development of promotion and marketing plans, management of CLE accreditation process and all speaker and sponsor arrangements, as well as on-site management of the overall conference and its catered events. Working with volunteers or program committees will be required to determine scheduling; space assignments and program content for each conference. Travel is required. This individual also will be responsible for the management of personnel assisting with the execution of the event and/or conference. Essential Job Functions and Responsibilities (listed in order of importance and/or time spent) Manage and plan complex conferences to include: site selection, contract negotiations, budget development and development of project timelines and event specifications. Direct management of meeting coordinator or meeting planner level position for daily operations of team event planning. Manage logistics for entity-wide events, to include scheduling and space assignments, group activities, catering and vendor communications. Travel to, and independently manage conferences and events to include CLE accreditation process, speakers, on-site staff, and vendor communications. Manage and coordinate member/volunteer responsibilities and deadlines with regard to assigned conferences. Performs other related duties as required. Required Education, Qualifications, Experience Bachelor’s degree from four-year college or university or equivalent experience. 3-6 years meeting planning and management experience. Proficiency in Microsoft Office software (Excel, Word, Access and PowerPoint). Strong written and oral communication skills. Preferred Education, Qualifications, Experience Some marketing preferred. CMP preferred. Physical Requirements Normal Office Condition. Extent of Travel Required in the Job Travel is required. The American Bar Association is an Equal Opportunity Employer: Disability/Veteran. In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADAAA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position with the American Bar Association, please call View phone number on click.appcast.io. ABA Chicago, 321 North Clark, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America #J-18808-Ljbffr