Event Planner: Talk of the Sourlands seminar series

The Sourland Conservancy carries out its mission to protect the Sourland region through educational programs and advocacy efforts. The Sourland region is a 90 square mile area of critical forest, grassland and wetland habitats that lies within parts of Hunterdon, Mercer and Somerset counties. It is an island of biodiversity in a sea of encroaching sprawl. Characterized by a fragile eological balance, the Sourland Mountain region face pressures that threaten to deplete and degrate the water and delicate ecology of the area. The region boasts the largest contiguous forest in Central NJ and is an essential stopover for Neotropical migrant songbirds. The Sourland Conservancy seeks to educate residents and visitors to the Sourlands about its ecological, historical and recreational value. The organization also advocates for municipal ordinances that support the protection and preservation of the Sourlands.

,

Role Summary

The Talk of the Sourlands Lead coordinates all aspects of the Conservancy’s speaker series. This role involves finding engaging speakers, scheduling talks, and working with venues to ensure events run smoothly. The Lead helps create a welcoming and professional experience for both presenters and attendees.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify and recruit potential speakers on topics relevant to the Sourlands and conservation.
• Confirm event dates and details with speakers and venues (primarily the Watershed Institute).
• Collect speaker bios, headshots, and presentation descriptions for marketing and promotion.
• Coordinate with Conservancy staff on event promotion and materials.
• Share event logistics (parking, AV setup, timing, etc.) with speakers and volunteers.
• Ensure venues are prepared with needed arrangements (room setup, AV support, refreshments if applicable).
• Follow up with speakers after the event to thank them and gather feedback.
  
  

Time Commitment

Approximately 6–8 hours per month during active event season (may vary by month).

Some evening availability required (during talks).

Skills & Qualities

• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Comfortable reaching out to professionals and coordinating schedules.
• Detail-oriented and able to track multiple moving parts.
• Interest in conservation, education, or community programming is a plus.
  
  

Support Provided

• Training on Conservancy mission and programs.
• Staff support for promotions, materials, and day-of event assistance.
• Access to past speaker lists and resources to help recruit new presenters.