Meeting & Event Services Planner - Senior Associate

Location:US-NY-New York Job Number:NEW000A4 Employee Status : Regular Job Type :Experienced Schedule : Full-time Description The Meeting & Event Services (M&ES) Planner schedules and plans logistical arrangements for national and/or Area meetings for the firm, and may also act as the project manager for departmental projects and initiatives. With minimal supervision, this individual follows firm, business unit and departmental policies, guidelines and procedures. This individual also supports the M&ES mission statement, works to promote a winning, team-based culture, and initiates and/or contributes to M&ES best practices that aid the team in accomplishing our mission and goals. Responsibilities Effectively, consistently, and seamlessly deliver innovative meetings and events that add to the success of the meeting's objectives, maximize value for the firm, and optimize the meeting's budget. Work with a meeting sponsor to understand his/her needs and provide value-based solutions as follows. Conduct site research and make recommendations on meeting location. Guide and educate sponsors and requesters through the firm's independence and procurement policies. Use extensive professional knowledge and skills to negotiate rates and contract terms to obtain cost savings for the firm. Review contracts to ensure terms and conditions are acceptable and meet firm guidelines. Manage staff and/or internal clients through the attendee registration process. Prepare and manage initial and final budget for meeting expenses (i.e., rooms, food, equipment, outside speakers, etc.). Prepare and communicate written logistical specifications of the meeting to the meeting venue. Manage all logistical aspects of the meeting and ensure that all contract points are being met during the meeting. Travel to on-site locations as necessary. Supervise additional on-site support personnel at meetings. Oversee arrangements for event production and on-site technology through our Americas Communications and National Technology Support. Conduct and/or review initial audit of hotel and related invoices. Oversee payment of vendor invoices. Follow-up on customer satisfaction surveys. Manage meeting-related information in the group meeting tracking system. Work with team members in Meeting & Event Services as needed. To qualify, candidates must have: a bachelor's degree or equivalent experience approximately 3-5 years of related experience, including entry- to mid-level meeting planning skills and experience Certified Meeting Professional certification is helpful but not required knowledge of meeting industry software, including web registration applications excellent communication skills consistent attention to detail and strong organizational skills proficiency with MS Office ability and willingness to travel, as required This position requires occasional overtime, as necessary, depending on the volume of work or scheduling.