Events Manager, Executive Events

George Washington University; Washington (District of Columbia); Hybrid; USD 59,000 - 97,000; Full time

Job summary

George Washington University’s Alumni & Executive Events team seeks an Events Manager, Executive Events to orchestrate high-profile university gatherings. You will coordinate with executive leadership, alumni, volunteers, and campus partners to deliver memorable experiences aligned with GW’s priorities.

The role requires managerial finesse, proactive planning, and the ability to handle sensitive situations with poise. 41 hours per week in a hybrid on-site setting at Foggy Bottom, DC.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; substitutions possible with equivalent education/experience.
• Experience coordinating high-profile events and working with executive leadership.
• Strong budgeting, planning, and vendor management skills essential.

Responsibilities

• Partner in development, planning, and execution of high-impact events for senior stakeholders.
• Lead RFP creation and coordinate vendors to reflect GW standards.
• Build partnerships with vendors and campus collaborators for seamless events.
• Serve as on-site event lead, troubleshoot issues and support VIPs.
• Produce event materials, signage, programs, nametags, and displays.
• Maintain event records, budgets, timelines, and stakeholder lists.
• Collaborate across departments to align event strategies university-wide.
• Capture post-event insights to inform future programming and standards.
• Support special initiatives for Alumni & Executive Events and other executive units.

Skills

Executive event planning

Vendor management

Budget oversight

On-site event leadership

Stakeholder engagement

Project coordination

Communication with executives

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Tools

Microsoft Office

Google Workspace

Event management tools

Job description

Job Description Summary

The Events Manager, Executive Events is a key driver behind some of GW’s high-profile and strategic events. This role brings together executive leaders, senior volunteers, distinguished alumni, and campus partners to create memorable experiences that advance the university’s mission. Reporting to the Senior Associate Director, University Events, you will help shape events that reflect institutional priorities, strengthen high-level relationships, and showcase GW at its best. This is an exciting opportunity for a highly organized, resourceful, and energetic professional who thrives in fast-paced environments. The ideal candidate anticipates needs before they arise, communicates with confidence, and navigates sensitive situations with poise and professionalism.

Key Responsibilities

• Partner in the creative development, planning, and execution of high-impact events for senior university stakeholders.
• Lead RFP creation and vendor coordination, ensuring every event reflects excellence and aligns with GW standards.
• Cultivate strong partnerships with vendors and campus collaborators to deliver seamless, exceptional experiences.
• Serve as a polished, proactive on-site event lead—troubleshooting challenges, supporting VIPs, and ensuring flawless execution.
• Produce high-quality event materials, from signage and programs to nametags and table displays.
• Maintain organized and accurate event records, budgets, timelines, and stakeholder lists.
• Work across departments to integrate event strategies and ensure university-wide alignment.
• Capture insights through post-event evaluations to help shape future programming and elevate standards.
• Support special initiatives and signature events for the Alumni & Executive Events team, the Office of the President, and other executive units.

Performing other work related duties as assigned. The omission of specific duties does not preclude the supervisor from assigning logically related duties to the position.

Minimum Qualifications

Qualified candidates will hold a Bachelor’s degree in an appropriate area of specialization. Degree must be conferred by the start date of the position. Degree requirements may be substituted with an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Ability to work evenings and weekends
• Frequent local travel; occasional national/international travel
• Exceptional organizational, project management, and budgeting skills
• Strong written and verbal communication, with the ability to engage confidently with executive leaders and donors
• Expertise in event logistics, vendor management, and risk assessment
• Ability to balance multiple deadlines, adapt quickly, and problem-solve in real time
• Professionalism, discretion, and sound judgment in handling confidential information
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and event/project management tools

Hiring Range

$58,992.50 - $97,373.72

GW Staff Approach to Pay

How is pay for new employees determined at GW?

Campus Location

Foggy Bottom, Washington, D.C.

College/School/Department

University Advancement

Family

Safety and Facilities

Sub-Family

Events

Stream

Individual Contributor

Level

Level 1

Full-Time/Part-Time

Full-Time

Hours Per Week

40

Work Schedule

Monday - Friday, 8:30am - 5:00pm, some occasional weekends

Will this job require the employee to work on site?

Yes

Employee Onsite Status

Hybrid

Telework

Yes

Required Background Check

Criminal History Screening, Education/Degree/Certifications Verification, Social Security Number Trace, and Sex Offender Registry Search

Special Instructions to Applicants

Employer will not sponsor for employment Visa status

Internal Applicants Only?

No

Posting Number

S014517

Job Open Date

10/09/2026

Background Screening

Successful Completion of a Background Screening will be required as a condition of hire.

EEO Statement

The university is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer that does not unlawfully discriminate in any of its programs or activities on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or on any other basis prohibited by applicable law.