Metis Planning Group
Empowering Businesses with Custom Training Programs
Leadership Programs, Conferences, and Professional Trainings: Planned and Delivered Seamlessly
Welcome to Metis Planning Group!
Metis Planning Group helps professional associations, nonprofits, and organizations design and deliver conferences, leadership programs, and professional development initiatives. Led by experienced program manager Julianne Jones, Metis specializes in the operational planning and coordination that keeps complex programs organized and running smoothly, from early program development through event and training delivery. Metis Planning Group is a federally certified Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) and a Virginia Certified SWaM business.
Experience & Impact
- Planned and delivered 15+ professional conferences and training events
- Managed a six-month leadership development institute for emerging professionals for 7 years
- Successfully transitioned five conferences to virtual and hybrid delivery
Typical clients include:
- Professional and trade associations
- Nonprofit organizations
- Industry organizations and for-profit companies running conferences or training
- Workforce and professional development programs
- Consulting teams seeking event and program management support
WLI25 Cohort at their Face to Face Workshop
Selected Projects
Leadership Program Management - WLI
Managed the Water Leadership Institute (WLI), a six-month leadership development program for emerging professionals in the water sector. Coordinated program logistics, participant communication, speaker scheduling, and hybrid program delivery while working closely with a volunteer alumni advisory group. During this time, program applications more than doubled and the cohort size expanded.
Conference Program Management – Professional Associations
Planned and supported more than 15 conferences and professional events. Responsibilities included coordinating volunteer planning committees, managing speaker logistics, developing conference programs, and supporting onsite event implementation to ensure smooth delivery.
Leadership & Training Program Coordination
Supported leadership programs and professional development initiatives by managing timelines, coordinating facilitators and speakers, organizing program materials, and ensuring participants had a smooth and engaging experience throughout the program. These programs included delivery in-person, hybrid, online live sessions, as well as asynchronous online via LMS.
Virtual Conference Series – Program & Event Management
Converted five planned in-person conferences into virtual events in 2021. Designed programs that included live Zoom sessions, livestream presentations with live Q&A, and on-demand recorded sessions. Built and managed the event platform in a learning management system.
About Metis
Metis Planning Group supports professional organizations, nonprofits, and associations in designing and delivering impactful conferences, leadership programs, and professional training initiatives. With more than a decade of experience managing complex programs and events, Metis specializes in the operational planning that turns strong ideas into well-run experiences.
The name Metis comes from Greek mythology, where Metis represents wisdom, thoughtful planning, and strategic insight, qualities that guide how we approach every program and event.
Our work spans leadership and professional development programs, conference program management, event and program logistics, workforce development initiatives, and training and workshop delivery support. We also partner closely with associations and volunteer committees to coordinate planning efforts, keep timelines on track, and ensure clear communication among stakeholders. Metis Planning Group provides conference program management, leadership program coordination, and professional training support for organizations nationwide.
Whether launching a new program or strengthening an existing one, Metis also provides program evaluation and improvement to help organizations refine structure, streamline operations, and enhance participant experience. By combining strategic planning with strong logistical execution, Metis helps organizations deliver programs that are organized, engaging, and impactful for both participants and program leaders.
Photos by Jacqui Fenner, J2 Designs
Professional Certifications
Get To Know Me
Julianne Jones, PMP
I’m an experienced event and program organizer with a passion for turning ideas into seamless, engaging experiences. My background spans international training development—designing leadership and micro-finance programs for companies around the world—to seven years at the Water Environment Federation, where I led conference programs and flagship initiatives like the Water Leadership Institute and InFLOW. I thrive on guiding diverse teams through building programs from scratch, ensuring every detail supports the bigger picture.
I have had a PMP certification since 2019 and have obtained a Cvent Event Management Certification valid until 2027.
Outside of work, my focus shifts from people to animals. I volunteer at the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria, working with the most vulnerable dogs—especially giant bully breeds—and working on training programs to help them succeed. I also foster guinea pigs, rabbits, and the occasional kitten (with allergy meds close by), helping them build confidence and find their new home. Whether planning a major conference or socializing a shy rescue, I’m all about creating spaces where others can thrive.
Willow is the Chief Morale Officer at Metis Planning Group
and a vital member of the team. Her responsibilities include boosting morale, supervising work-from-home operations, and ensuring all meetings include appropriate snack breaks. She is known for her dedication, loyalty, and excellent listening skills.
Testimonials
I have worked with Julianne since the COVID pandemic and continue to be amazed at her ability to keep things happening in the face of adversity. Her creativity kept participants engaged in our leadership program at the height of the pandemic and effectively navigated back to in-person events. She has the uncanny ability to keep things moving and get back on track quickly even when the train derails. I highly recommend her for any leadership training and event planning, whether in-person, virtual, or a combination of both. -Jen C.
