Events Management Specialist

The State Bar of Michigan is seeking an Events Management Specialist to plan, coordinate, and execute its meetings, conferences, programs, and special events. The role oversees event planning from strategy and budgeting through on-site delivery and evaluation, and supports meetings at SBM facilities and related departmental initiatives.

Responsibilities

Plan and manage SBM meetings, conferences, programs, and special events from initial development through post-event evaluation, collaborating with internal departments, sections, and committees to ensure alignment with SBM priorities, policies, and member-service goalsResearch and evaluate venues and vendors; solicit and evaluate proposals; coordinate contracts and related requirements (including agreements, insurance, deposits, and cancellation provisions); and manage event services such as lodging, food and beverage, AV services, transportation, and entertainmentCoordinate event logistics and on-site execution, including registration, staffing, speakers, schedules, attendee communications, hospitality, awards, signage, and seating, ensuring effective delivery across all participantsIdentify and address operational, logistical, accessibility, safety, and technology risks; develop appropriate contingency plans, timelines, production schedules, run-of-show documents, and checklistsServe as the primary point of contact for external organizations and individuals using SBM meeting facilities, coordinating all meeting arrangements (room setup, catering, tech requirements) and providing on-site supportDevelop and maintain proficiency in SBM's event management software as the primary internal resource for event setup, registration, communications, reporting, system integration, and quality assuranceMaintain a 12-month calendar of meetings, events, and programming; monitor scheduling conflicts, resources, and staffing requirements; and analyze legal and association trends to recommend new member experiencesDevelop and manage sponsorship and exhibitor opportunities, including packages, prospect solicitation, agreements, benefit fulfillment, and post-event reportingDevelop and monitor event budgets and financial activity from initial budget through final reconciliation, expenses, invoices, revenue, and closeouts in accordance with SBM policiesMaintain accurate event records and analyze participation, financial results, evaluations, and member feedback to assess performance and improve the attendee experienceSupport the Outreach Department with section portal administration, collaborate with Communications on promotional assets, coordinate event technology with IT, and provide support to the Lawyer Services call center, member records, and merchandise inventory as needed
Skills

Minimum of 3–5 years of professional meeting and event planning experienceDemonstrated knowledge of event planning and operations, including venue and vendor management, budgeting, registration, event technology, audiovisual support, and on-site coordinationStrong project management, problem-solving, and prioritization skills to manage multiple events, projects, vendors, deadlines, and competing prioritiesProficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe Acrobat, event management technology, and association management systems such as iMISStrong communication, interpersonal, and customer service skills to work effectively with staff, members, volunteers, vendors, and external partnersAbility to effectively use technology and data to improve event administration, reporting, efficiency, and the member experienceBachelor's degreeAdditional customer service or related professional experienceCertified Meeting Professional (CMP) or comparable professional designation
Benefits

Hybrid work
Company Overview

The State Bar shall aid in promoting improvements in the administration of justice and advancements in jurisprudence, in improving relations between the legal profession and the public, and in promoting the interest of the legal profession in this State. It was founded in 1935, and is headquartered in Lansing, Michigan, USA, with a workforce of 51-200 employees. Its website is https://www.michbar.org.