Director, Programs & Strategic Convenings

About Us

The Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy (PICI) is a 501c3 nonprofit organization driving the next generation of cancer treatment by accelerating the development of breakthrough immune therapies to turn all cancers into curable diseases. Founded in 2016 through the vision of Sean Parker, PICI unites the nation’s top cancer centers into a collaborative consortium that fuels high-risk, high-reward science with shared goals, data, and infrastructure. Unlike traditional research models, PICI goes beyond discovery by actively advancing promising innovations through clinical testing, company formation and incubation, and commercialization. PICI has supported more than 1,000 investigators across its network and has a portfolio that includes 17 biotech ventures with over $4B raised in capital. PICI is uniquely positioned to close the gap between scientific discovery and patient access. By integrating scientific excellence with entrepreneurial execution, PICI is reimagining how cures are made, and accelerating their path to the people who need them most. Find out more at parkerici.org and follow us on LinkedIn , X , Apple Podcasts and Spotify .

Overview of the Role

The Director, Programs & Strategic Convenings is a pivotal, high-impact leadership role, functioning as the operational cornerstone and strategic architect of the Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy's (PICI) engagement and advancement strategy. This role directly supports the critical strategic pillar of Integrating the Network and is essential for driving PICI's mission forward. The Director will bear full responsibility for the meticulous planning, flawless execution, and comprehensive follow-up of premier convenings. These events are strategically designed to cultivate and steward ultra-high-net-worth donors, engage influential institutional investors (including Venture Capital and corporate partners), and effectively showcase the profound scientific and commercial impact of our translational research and venture portfolio. This position necessitates an exceptional level of meticulousness, strategic foresight, and sophisticated diplomacy, managing a diverse portfolio of engagements ranging from exclusive, confidential investor salons to substantial, multi-day scientific retreats that are critical for stimulating cutting-edge collaboration across PICI's global network. The Director ensures every event serves as a high-value touchpoint, translating PICI's complex scientific achievements into compelling narratives of success and opportunity.

Reporting Structure and Team

The Director, Programs & Strategic Convenings reports to Chief Organizational Advancement Officer (COAO)

FLSA Status: Exempt

Key Responsibilities:

● Strategic Event Portfolio Design and Execution:

○ Design, plan, and produce a comprehensive portfolio of high-impact, mission-critical events, ensuring alignment with PICI’s strategic goals. This includes, but is not limited to:

■ Venture/Investor Showcases (Portfolio Impact): Lead the execution of events specifically designed to position PICI's venture portfolio for investment, including pitch days, investor briefings, and exclusive showcases of commercialization progress.

■ Stewardship and Advancement Dinners: Manage and execute high-end, intimate dinners and events focused on donor cultivation, stewardship, and securing significant philanthropic and institutional funding commitments.

● Investor & VIP Experience Management:

○ Serve as the primary liaison for event experiences involving PICI’s most critical stakeholders: ultra-high-net-worth individuals, top-tier Venture Capitalists, major corporate partners, and Pharmaceutical Executives.

○ Ensure a flawless, confidential, and highly personalized experience for all VIP attendees.

○ Manage the development of highly detailed briefing materials, personalized agendas, and bespoke experiences specifically tailored for prospective investors in PICI’s venture portfolio, ensuring all interactions are strategic and goal-oriented.

○ Oversee pre- and post-event communication strategy to maximize engagement and ensure prompt, high-quality follow-up.

● Content Strategy and Translation:

○ Collaborate intensively with the internal Venture, Science, and Communications teams to fully grasp complex scientific data, clinical trial milestones, and commercialization strategies.

○ Distill and translate this intricate information into highly compelling, accessible, and strategically-focused event programming and accompanying materials.

○ Ensure that the "PICI Story" of scientific leadership, translational success, and commercial potential is prominently and effectively featured across all platforms.

● Fiscal and Project Management Leadership:

○ Exercise full oversight of all logistical elements, including site selection, contract negotiation, A/V production, catering, security, and travel coordination for VIPs.

○ Manage and meticulously track associated budgets, often exceeding $500,000 per major event, ensuring cost-effectiveness without compromising quality or experience.

○ Develop and maintain a network of high-quality national and international vendors, negotiating favorable terms and ensuring high-performance service delivery.

○ Implement robust project management systems to track all event timelines, deliverables, and stakeholder responsibilities.

● Global Reach and Digital Innovation:

○ Direct the successful execution of complex virtual and hybrid events, leveraging cutting-edge technology to effectively engage PICI’s geographically dispersed global network of scientists, partners, and international investors.

○ Develop strategies for enhancing digital event delivery, maximizing reach, and ensuring a high-quality, interactive experience across all formats.

Qualifications:

● A minimum of seven (7) years of progressive and demonstrably successful experience in high-level event management, conference production, or institutional advancement.

● Preference for direct experience within the demanding environments of the Science, Technology, Biotechnology, or Finance sectors, where a mastery of complex, high-stakes subject matter is required.

● Demonstrated, non-negotiable experience managing and curating sophisticated events specifically tailored for ultra-high-net-worth, investor (VC/PE), and C-suite corporate audiences.

● Exceptional written, verbal, and presentation communication skills, with a proven ability to interact credibly with top-tier scientific, financial, and philanthropic leaders.

● A proven track record of successful budget management for major events ($500k+).

● High proficiency in event management software, CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce), and virtual event platforms.

● The possession of a Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) designation or equivalent professional certification is highly considered an advantageous asset.

Willingness to travel domestically and internationally as required to successfully execute the event portfolio.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary: $165k-225k per year based on experience, location and qualifications
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• 403(b) with company match

Additional Information

• Must be authorized to work in the United States; we do not sponsor work visas
• Local candidates preferred
• No relocation assistance will be provided