Conference Manager

Brown Gibbons Lang & Company; Cleveland, Chicago (OH, IL); On-site; USD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

A financial advisory firm in Cleveland is seeking an experienced Conference Manager to oversee its annual Growth Conference and other events. The ideal candidate will manage logistics, collaborate with teams, develop budgets, and execute innovative and memorable event experiences. Candidates should possess a Bachelor's degree and have 7-10 years of relevant experience, particularly in financial services. Strong project management, organizational, and creative skills are essential for this role.

Qualifications

• 7-10 years of related work experience, preferably in financial or professional services.
• Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work under high-pressure situations.

Responsibilities

• Plan and manage all aspects of the annual Growth Conference.
• Collaborate with the Marketing team and stakeholders.
• Develop and maintain event budgets and track expenses.
• Conduct post-event evaluations and analyze feedback.

Skills

Project management

Organizational skills

Creative thinking

Excellent communication

Time management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Communications, Business, or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Brown Gibbons Lang & Company (BGL), an established and fast-growing investment banking and financial advisory firm, is seeking an experienced Conference Manager to join our team.

We are looking for an experienced events professional to manage the firm’s annual Growth Conference, a marquee, client-facing event. The Conference Manager may also oversee the planning and execution of other smaller/short-term events hosted either in our offices or by BGL in other locations, but their primary responsibility will be to manage and grow/scale the Growth Conference.

The Conference Manager manages all aspects of the event’s logistics, from internal communications and planning to marketing to on-site execution and post-event evaluation. The ideal candidate has very strong project management skills, is a self-starter with exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail, and the creativity to create memorable experiences that align with BGL’s business objectives and brand reputation.

Primary Responsibilities

• Plan and manage all aspects of the firm’s annual Growth Conference, including budgeting, internal communications, external marketing, venue requirements, contract negotiation, logistics, software/technology, catering, audiovisual requirements, equipment, staffing, transportation, and accommodations, among others.
• Collaborate with and work through the BGL Marketing team, internal stakeholders, and external business partners to manage and grow/scale the firm’s Growth Conference in accordance with BGL’s overall growth strategy, business objectives, and target audiences.
• Coordinate event marketing, communications, and promotional activities, collaborating with the Marketing team to create event materials, invitations, and digital campaigns based on the target audiences for the Growth Conference.
• Develop comprehensive event timelines and project plans to ensure smooth event execution, communications, and the timely completion of all tasks.
• Effectively manage vendor and supplier relationships, including contract negotiation, selection, and coordination to ensure high‑quality services and timely deliverables, and to build relationships on behalf of the firm.
• Develop and maintain event budgets, tracking expenses, running financial reports, and ensuring adherence to budgetary guidelines.
• Implement and oversee effective event registration processes, including attendee databases and RSVP management.
• Coordinate and oversee event setup and breakdown, ensuring proper placement of signage, displays, equipment, and decorations.
• Provide on‑site event management, creating and executing staffing plans for BGL staff, vendors, and contractors, and troubleshooting any issues that may arise.
• Conduct post‑event evaluations, analyzing feedback, data, and metrics to measure event success, identify areas for improvement, and provide recommendations for future events.
• Stay updated on industry trends, best practices, and emerging technologies in event management, incorporating innovative ideas to enhance event experiences and effectiveness.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required, with a concentration in Marketing, Communications, English, Business, or related field preferred.
• 7‑10 years of related work experience, with experience in financial or professional services highly preferred.
• Strong organizational, project management, and time management skills.
• A sharp eye for detail and the ability to prioritize workload when overseeing multiple projects.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships and collaborate with key stakeholders.
• Creative thinking and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to anticipate and mitigate risks, adapt to unexpected situations, and find innovative solutions.
• Proficiency in the Microsoft Office suite.
• Ability to work under pressure and remain composed in high‑stress situations.
• Flexibility and adaptability to changing event needs and last‑minute adjustments.
• Knowledge of event production, audiovisual equipment, and technical requirements is desirable.

BGL is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, religion, gender, age, veteran status, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, or disability (in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act), or any other legally protected status for employment opportunities.

Disclaimer

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