Events Manager, Executive Events

George Washington University; Washington; Hybrid; USD 59,000 - 97,000; Full time

Job summary

George Washington University is seeking an Events Manager, Executive Events to lead high-profile university events. You will work with executive leaders, distinguished alumni, and campus partners to craft experiences aligned with institutional priorities.

This role requires strong organizational and communication skills, exceptional event planning, and the ability to manage sensitive situations with poise in a fast-paced environment. Evening/weekend work and travel are expected.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required or equivalent combination of education, training and experience.

Responsibilities

• Partner in the creative development, planning and execution of high-impact events for senior university stakeholders.
• Lead RFP creation and vendor coordination to reflect GW standards.
• Cultivate partnerships with vendors and campus collaborators for seamless experiences.
• Serve as on-site event lead, troubleshooting and supporting VIPs.
• Produce event materials such as signage, programs, nametags and displays.
• Maintain budgets, timelines and stakeholder lists for events.
• Coordinate across departments to align event strategies university-wide.
• Capture insights from post-event evaluations to shape future programming.
• Support initiatives and signature events for Alumni & Executive Events teams and the Office of the President.

Skills

Communication

Executive engagement

Budgeting

Project management

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

MS Office

Google Workspace

Event management tools

Job description

I. JOB OVERVIEW

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?

Healthcare Benefits

GW offers a comprehensive benefit package that includes medical, dental, vision, life & disability insurance, time off & leave, retirement savings, tuition, well-being and various voluntary benefits. For program details and eligibility, please visit https://hr.gwu.edu/benefits-programs.

II. JOB DETAILS

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

Job Close Date:

If temporary, grant funded, Sponsored Project funded or limited term appointment, position funded until:

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.