Vice President, Meetings & Exhibits
Location: San Francisco, CA (Preferred)
Reports to: COO
Travel Required: Yes – Annual Meeting & other key events

About Us
The American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) is the world’s largest association of eye physicians and surgeons, dedicated to advancing the lifelong learning and professional interests of the ophthalmic community. Our Annual Meeting is one of the largest medical gatherings in the U.S., drawing attendees from around the globe.

Position Summary
We are seeking a strategic, results-oriented Vice President, Meetings & Exhibits to lead the planning, execution, and innovation of our Annual Meeting, as well as oversee operations for Eyecelerator, the Academy’s most powerful and forward-thinking innovation meeting. This position manages a team of 16 and is directly responsible for approximately 35% of the Academy’s annual revenue target.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership & Planning

• Develop and execute long-term strategies for the Annual Meeting in collaboration with the Annual Meeting Secretariat and staff.
• Oversee meeting rotation planning with convention centers and bureaus.
• Partner with marketing to deliver targeted and impactful campaigns.

Operations Management

• Lead and coach a 16-member team to achieve individual and departmental goals.
• Manage a $20M division budget, ensuring fiscal discipline and forecasting accuracy.
• Direct Eyecelerator operations, including program goals, marketing, sponsorships, and technology integration.

Partnerships & Representation

• Engage with the AAO Board, international ophthalmology societies, industry partners, and vendors to strengthen strategic relationships.
• Ensure seamless negotiation, vendor management, and city selection processes for future events.

Crisis & Issue Management

• Oversee risk mitigation and crisis management for large-scale events.
• Resolve exhibitor, vendor, and attendee issues with professionalism and cultural sensitivity.
   

Qualifications:

• Education: BA/BS in Management, Business, or related field
• Required Certification: CMP (Certified Meeting Professional) or CEM (Certified Exhibition Manager)
• Preferred Certification: CAE (Certified Association Executive)

Experience:

• Proven leadership in large-scale city-wide convention planning
• Strong background in strategic planning, budget management, and contract negotiation
• Ability to manage multiple large projects simultaneously

Skills:

• Exceptional communication and interpersonal abilities
• Adept in working across diverse cultures and global business environments
• Skilled in crisis management and operational problem-solving
   

Salary $257,905 plus bonus potential

Why Join Us?
This is a career-defining opportunity to lead one of the most prestigious medical meetings in the world, shape global ophthalmic engagement, and drive innovation in professional education. Your leadership will directly impact the Academy’s reputation, member experience, and financial success.

How to Apply
Submit your resume and a cover letter highlighting your strategic leadership achievements at aao.org/jobs. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.