Conference Coordinator

SXSW is a renowned annual conglomerate of film, interactive media, music festivals, and conferences that take place in Austin, Texas. Established as a premier destination for creative industries, SXSW is celebrated for offering a platform where the brightest minds and creative professionals gather to share ideas, promote innovation, and advance cultural and technological trends. The event is an influential hub for networking, showcasing the latest developments in technology, music, and film, and fostering the exchange of groundbreaking concepts among attendees worldwide. SXSW's Innovation Conference Department is specifically focused on curating forward-thinking and inspiring content that attracts industry leaders, creators, and visionaries, establishing SXSW as a landmark event for discovery and advancement in numerous fields.

The role of Conference Coordinator within the Innovation Conference Department is pivotal to the seamless functioning and success of the SXSW Conference programming. Acting as a crucial operational lynchpin, the Coordinator is responsible for supporting the entire lifecycle of conference programming from ideation to execution. This full-time position is based in Austin, Texas, requiring close collaboration with internal teams and external speakers and organizers throughout the year. The Coordinator manages communications effectively, ensuring all stakeholders are aligned on deadlines, logistical details, and content curation efforts. This role demands high organizational skills to maintain meticulous records, databases, and a high volume of correspondence while providing exceptional service to conference participants.

Moreover, the role extends to on-site responsibilities during the event, where the Coordinator oversees the smooth execution of sessions at assigned venues, guaranteeing that programming adheres to scheduled times and that attendee engagement is monitored. The position entails troubleshooting issues in real-time, offering support to registrants and speakers, and assisting staff with various on-demand tasks to ensure a memorable and effective conference experience. The successful candidate will demonstrate strong professional networking abilities, a collaborative spirit, and a capacity to work efficiently under high pressure while maintaining a positive and adaptable attitude. Responsibilities require proficiency with contemporary business and collaborative tools such as Microsoft Office Suite, Google Docs, Slack, and Airtable, as well as prior experience in public-facing roles or event planning preferred.

Physical demands include prolonged periods of desk work and computer use with occasional lifting and movement around event spaces during SXSW and SXSW EDU, which require extended on-site working hours over a 15-day period. Scheduling flexibility is indispensable as the role extends beyond the typical 10 am to 6 pm weekday shift, especially in the months preceding the conference when evenings and weekends work may be necessary.

Overall, the SXSW Conference Coordinator role offers a dynamic and impactful career opportunity for individuals passionate about event production, innovation, and creative collaboration within one of the world's most influential creative industry events.