Events Manager

Chicago
71 South Wacker Drive, 47th Floor
Chicago, IL 60606, USA

Founded in 1920, Akerman is recognized as one of the nation’s premier law firms, with more than 700 lawyers across the United States.

The Events Manager will report to the Senior Events Manager and play a key role in planning, organizing, and executing internal and external events that align with the firm’s strategic objectives. This role involves collaboration with attorneys, business development teams, and other departments to ensure seamless event delivery while maintaining high standards of professionalism and attention to detail. This role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to the firm’s client development efforts by delivering high-quality events that enhance client relationships and foster internal collaboration.

• Direct and supervise logistics for firmwide events, including client networking events, CLE presentations, retreats, and social gatherings.
• Research venues, negotiate contracts, and manage budgets.
• Oversee event setup, catering, audiovisual needs, decor, transportation, and staffing.
• Develop detailed event timelines and checklists to ensure smooth operations.

• Liaise with attorneys and business development teams to define event objectives.
• Provide regular updates to stakeholders regarding event progress and outcomes.
• Ensure compliance with firm policies, risk guidelines, and legal requirements.

• Conduct evaluations to measure success and return on investment (ROI).
• Gather attendee feedback and identify areas for improvement.

• Collaborate with the Senior Events Manager to implement best practices.
• Mentor team members of MCD on event planning processes (as needed).

• Bachelor's degree in Event Management, Marketing, Hospitality, or a related field
• Minimum of 5–7 years of experience in event planning within a professional services or law firm environment
• Proven track record of successfully managing high-profile, multi-faceted events
• Communication Excellence: Strong written and verbal communication skills for coordinating with attorneys, clients, vendors, and promoting events effectively
• Advanced Organization: Exceptional ability to manage multiple events, budgets, schedules, and complex logistics simultaneously
• Detail Orientation: Meticulous attention to detail ensuring flawless execution from contracts to catering
• Strategic Problem‑Solving: Ability to anticipate challenges and respond quickly under pressure to manage last‑minute changes
• Relationship Building: Strong interpersonal skills for fostering productive relationships with internal teams and external vendors through empathy, patience, and collaboration
• Technical Proficiency: Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), CRM tools (Inter Action), Cvent, webinar platforms, and event management software
• Negotiation Expertise: Skilled negotiator capable of securing favorable vendor terms and managing costs efficiently
• Time Management: Superior ability to manage competing priorities and tight deadlines while maintaining quality standards
• Flexibility &
  
  Collaboration:
  
  Team player who enjoys interacting with people and is willing to travel for in‑person events

Job Type
:
Full‑Time;
Monday - Friday (Hybrid)

Salary Range
:
The firm’s anticipated hiring range for this position is $85,000- $105,000 annually. Actual compensation will be determined based on a variety of factors, including position, geographic location, education, training, and experience.

Bonus
:
Discretionary holiday bonus

Benefits
:
Paid Time Off, Medical Insurance, Dental Insurance, Vision Insurance, Life Insurance, Disability Insurance, 401k Profit Sharing Plan, and Transportation Program

Please submit your resume, cover letter, and salary requirements. EOE

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.