Team Lead, Event Management

This role will manage several company and client initiatives at a time, supporting C-level and senior stakeholders, and will also be responsible for key business relationships and team management. Team Management • Collaborate with the Team Manager to understand the strategic approach to the client account, providing on-the-ground insight into the client business and opportunities while offering input on key challenges and driving the business with a strong understanding of the larger organizational picture • Mentor and develop 5-12 direct reports, conducting performance development conversations and managing the process • Oversee the team's workload, ensuring a clear understanding of capacity and pressure points through regular 1:1 meetings. Manage vacation schedules and approve monthly expenses • Ensure the team maintains strong positive relationships with clients • Collaborate with the Team Manager to ensure development opportunities, effective business coverage and continuity, including succession planning • FIRST ambassador; participate and engage with FIRST initiatives and extracurricular where possible • Lead and motivate the team to work efficiently, fostering positive communication and an open inclusive environment that ensures good team morale • Liaise with the Team Manager and P&C team on talent development and recruitment for open direct report roles while overseeing the onboarding and offboarding processes • Active training and development of the FIRST Team. Encourage direct reports to be knowledgeable of best practices, new suppliers, services and venues, and to be proactive with ideas and creative solutions • Liaise with stakeholders to refine workstreams for efficiency, meet evolving business requirements and proactively assist with ad hoc projects, troubleshooting problems and optimizing workflows, particularly during periods of change • Refine and drive best practice; ensure team adheres to firms SOP and compliance requirements • Manage up; raise and escalate potential concerns and successes to management on a regular reporting basis What We Are Looking For • Bachelors degree preferred • 8-10 years event management experience, preferably in the financial services industry or a corporate environment • People management experience preferred • Advanced experience of events and conferences including but not limited to C-level executive events, cocktail receptions and meetings and conferences • Experience with venue sourcing including extensive knowledge in contracting, negotiation and commission collection may be required • Experience with event and registration technology, particularly Cvent and Dealogic / Conference Manager may be required • Experience with virtual platforms including but not limited to; Zoom, Webex and On24 may be required • Extensive experience in working with and managing senior clients • Strong leadership experience; both leading and motivating colleagues in a manner that enhances working relationships and encapsulates the company brand and values • Advanced project management skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously • Excellent written and oral communication skills at all levels • Strong proficiency with Microsoft Office, specifically Excel • Extensive industry knowledge of new suppliers, venues, services and best practices • Strong client management skills with the ability to influence and lead by example, fostering a positive environment • Ability to create best practice and take on new initiatives independently • Client centric, approachable ability to adjust to client needs and style and deepen relationships in support of their business and programs; adapt to ever changing demands and different client work styles • Motivated self-starter ability to take direction and work independently; ability to think innovatively • Leadership/influencing/negotiation and decision-making skills • Ability to travel 10% of the time FIRST is committed to the principle of equal employment opportunity for all employees and to providing employees with a work environment free of discrimination and harassment.