Event Manager

Position Overview

The NYCUDL is seeking an experienced and detail‑oriented Events and Volunteer Manager. This role is essential to the success of our programs, managing the logistics and coordination of approximately 40 debate tournaments annually, along with professional development sessions and special events, including our gala. The ideal candidate is a skilled project manager who thrives in a fast‑paced environment, enjoys working with diverse stakeholders, and is passionate about supporting youth development through educational programming.

This position reports to the CEO and works collaboratively with team members across all departments to ensure seamless execution of events that serve elementary, middle, and high school students throughout New York City.

• Plan and execute approximately 40 debate tournaments annually, ranging from District Tournaments (70‑200 students) to large‑scale Open League and NYC Reads tournaments (600‑700+ students)
• Identify and secure venue partnerships with local public schools and external partners throughout NYC
• Coordinate all tournament logistics, including procurement of food and beverage, materials, and supplies
• Develop and manage comprehensive run‑of‑show documents for each tournament
• Confirm staffing plans and book part‑time staff as needed for each event
• Map out room usage and scheduling for multiple rounds of debate across tournament days
• Confirm and coordinate volunteer judge pools to ensure adequate staffing for all debate rounds
• Manage tournament‑specific logistics using tournament software for debate operations—training provided
• Travel to tournament sites throughout NYC to provide on‑site support and coordination
• Other duties as assigned

• Plan and coordinate approximately 10 full‑day professional learning sessions annually for debate coaches
• Manage venue setup, materials, catering, and logistics for daylong workshops at the NYCUDL office
• Oversee and coordinate Summer Debate Institute staffing, planning, and program execution
• Plan and coordinate the Cross District & Summer Institute topic field trips
• Coordinate with program staff to ensure all training materials and resources are prepared and accessible
• Support, as needed, the CEO Office and development team in planning and executing the annual Champions of Debate gala as well as special events with organizational partners, including law firms and donors

• Develop and execute recruitment strategies to attract a diverse pool of judges, including alumni, law school students, corporate partners, and community members across NYC
• Send and update logistics emails and respond to volunteer inquiries
• Act as one point of contact for volunteers on‑site

• Build event project roadmaps and track timelines, deliverables, and cross‑functional collaboration across all events
• Maintain organized systems for vendor relationships, venue contacts, and event documentation
• Work collaboratively with team members across all departments to ensure alignment on event goals and execution
• Manage budgets and expenses related to events in coordination with finance team
• Create and maintain comprehensive event checklists, timelines, and communication protocols

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree
• 5+ years of professional experience in event planning, coordination, or related field
• Demonstrated project management skills with ability to manage multiple complex events simultaneously
• Strong organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders, including students, teachers, volunteers, and community partners
• Proficiency with Google Suite (Gmail, Google Docs, Sheets, Calendar, Drive)
• Experience with SharePoint applications
• Comfort with Slack and other digital communication platforms
• Ability to work flexible hours, including approximately 10 Saturdays per academic year and early mornings or late evenings based on event schedules
• Willingness to travel regularly to event sites throughout New York City
• Commitment to educational access and youth development
• Legal…