EVENT MANAGER

Event Manager

The Mercatus Center at George Mason University is seeking an Event Manager as part of our Events team to be responsible for planning and executing exceptional events that advance the Mercatus mission. The portfolio will include planning and execution or support of events for other teams within the organization on an as-needed basis.

This position will provide primary strategic development and logistical planning for a range of events that include conferences, workshops, and policy events. The Event Manager will work closely with the event and program teams to ensure that all events advance stated objectives. The candidate will oversee and execute all aspects of events from beginning to end, including venue selection and coordination, contract negotiation, strategic program planning, marketing, and post-event measurement.

The Event Manager must be willing to work evenings and weekends when necessary.

The position requires travel between the Arlington and Fairfax offices.

• Plans attendee travel and lodging, and on-site execution of venue logistics pertaining to space, food and beverage, security protocols, volunteer and support staff supervision. Builds and manages relationships with vendors, staff, scholars, attendees, and other constituents.
• Conducts post-event team debriefs to refine the process for future events and collaborates with other stakeholders to more effectively use resources to uphold and enhance the Mercatus standard of excellence.
• Plans cost effective events without sacrificing quality and standard of excellence, tracking event expenses, and creating budget spreadsheets for each event. Submittal of timely expense reports and invoice payments.
• Prepares event materials and sets up event spaces as needed.

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education, training, and work experience.
• A minimum of 4 years of related work experience in event strategy, planning, execution; to include complex and high-profile events.

Required Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities:

• Effective written and verbal communication skills with the ability to communicate clearly and concisely with all levels of the organization.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Proficiency in MS Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint). Experience with event registration and management platforms and Google communication tools. Salesforce experience considered a plus.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to establish and foster relationships through a professional presence.
• Excellent teamwork and customer service skills.
• Ability to think critically and handle emergency situations, demonstrating sound judgement under pressure.
• Availability to travel and work nights and weekends on a regular basis.

Please submit your cover letter and resume through our online application process. Your cover letter must indicate your interest in the Mercatus Center's mission.