Director of Education and Events

Job Summary
Position Overview

The Iowa Funeral Directors Association (IFDA) seeks an organized, innovative, and detail-oriented Director of Education & Events to design, implement, and manage high-quality educational programs and events for funeral service professionals across Iowa. This individual will advance IFDA’s mission by creating meaningful learning opportunities, overseeing continuing education compliance, and building strong relationships with members, speakers, and industry partners. The role also provides administrative support to the CEO and contributes to the overall success of the Association.

Key Responsibilities

Professional Development & Education

• Develop, plan, and deliver continuing education (CE) opportunities, including seminars, workshops, webinars, regional and district meetings, and the annual convention.
• Ensure compliance with state licensing board requirements and maintain accurate CE records.
• Research and recruit speakers; collaborate with subject matter experts and industry leaders.
• Identify emerging trends in funeral service and recommend new program offerings.
• Prepare and submit CEU forms and certificates, track compliance in the association database.
• Serve as staff liaison for the education committee.

Event Planning & Coordination

• Plan, produce, and manage conventions, exhibitions, seminars, board meetings, and special events (in-person and virtual).
• Coordinate event logistics, including contracts, venues, F&B, vendors, sponsors, exhibitors, registration, materials, and event app
• Provide on-site leadership and coordination to ensure smooth event execution.
• Solicit sponsorships and manage exhibitor relations in collaboration with the CEO.

Membership & Engagement

• Manage IFDA’s membership database
• Support annual membership renewal cycle and maintain online directory.
• Develop membership marketing materials in coordination with third-party designers.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for education and event-related inquiries.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with members, speakers, sponsors, and partners.

Communications & Marketing

• Assist with coordinating IFDA publications (e.g., weekly Insider, bi-monthly Communique).
• Assist in creating content and post member communications on social media.
• Research content for association communications and marketing.

Administrative & Executive Support

• Support the CEO with reports, presentations, correspondence, and meeting preparation.
• Maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with discretion.
• Answer office phone and member emails as needed during work hours.
• Cell phone accessibility during working hours and meetings

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of experience in professional development, education, or event planning.
• Strong organizational and project management skills; ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, database management systems.
• Experience in a professional association setting is preferred.
• Experience with basic website navigation.
• Knowledge of funeral service industry is preferred.
• AI experience is a plus.

Key Competencies

• Strategic thinker with ability to design and implement innovative programs.
• Strong relationship-builder with a member-focused mindset.
• Skilled at managing details while keeping an eye on the big picture.
• Adaptable, resourceful, and thrives in a smaller environment and can be comfortable working alone.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $55,000.00 - $65,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Health insurance
• Paid time off

Work Location: In person