Manager, Events

California Life Sciences (CLS) is seeking an experienced Events Manager to oversee the end-to-end planning and execution of a diverse, high-impact events portfolio that delivers meaningful value to our members and advances California’s life sciences ecosystem. The Events Manager will work closely with the Senior Director of Marketing & Programs, who leads overall event strategy and sponsorship, while taking primary ownership of logistics, onsite execution, and cross-functional coordination. Event Planning & Execution • Manage end-to-end logistics for a portfolio of ~15 signature events and ~30 smaller programs annually, including: • Policy and advocacy events (fly-in days, legislative briefings, elected official receptions, industry fundraisers, issue education events, various industry meet and greets) • Innovation and entrepreneurship programs (symposiums, pitch events, showcases, webinars) • Member engagement events (networking receptions, executive dinners, happy hours) • Awards receptions and galas • Own detailed event planning, including AV proposals and coordination, food and beverage planning, timelines, run-of-show development, speaker coordination, staffing plans, registration flow, and onsite execution • Lead day-of event operations, including registration and check-in, staff/volunteer coordination, speaker support, and real-time problem solving • Events may require evening or occasional weekend [EB4] availability depending on program needs. Stakeholder & Relationship Management • Serve as a primary point of contact for internal stakeholders including: • Policy & Advocacy • Membership and Business Development • Innovation & Entrepreneurship • Work directly with legislators, Members of Congress, legislative staff, sponsors, senior leadership, and board members • Manage sponsor deliverables in coordination with the Senior Director, ensuring commitments are executed accurately and professionally • Independently manage relationships with venues, vendors, and production partners Required: • Bachelor’s degree preferred; equivalent combination of education, training, and/or experience will be considered • Minimum 3-5 years of professional-level experience managing end-to-end event logistics • Travel to and support in-person events, including some overnight travel, across California (primarily in Sacramento, but also the San Francisco Bay Area, San Diego, and Los Angeles) and occasionally in Washington, DC, requiring reliable personal transportation and availability to travel by plane • Demonstrated experience working with legislators, elected officials, or government offices • Strong organizational skills and attention to details with the ability to manage multiple events and competing deadlines while maintaining high quality of work • Excellent written and verbal communication skills • Proven ability to remain professional, calm, and solutions-oriented under pressure • High emotional intelligence and comfort working with senior stakeholders • Experience making independent, time-sensitive decisions during live events • Ability to work occasional late evenings, early mornings, and weekends • Knowledge of MS Office applications; experience preparing name badges and place cards utilizing Microsoft mail merge • This role requires standing for extended periods during events and the ability to lift up to 25 lbs.