Strategic Events & Client Engagement Lead

Jobtailor; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Simpson Thacher in Chicago seeks an experienced events professional to plan and execute high-profile client-facing events. You will manage logistics, vendor contracts, and post-event analysis while collaborating with attorneys and cross-functional teams.

The role requires a Bachelor’s degree and 5-6+ years in events or client development, strong communication, and the ability to travel as needed. Proficiency with CRM systems and event tech is essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• 5-6+ years of relevant events or Client Development experience.
• Experience managing sophisticated client-facing events and stakeholder relationships.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong planning, time management, and organizational skills.
• Strong project management skills; ability to manage multiple events concurrently.
• Willingness to travel to event locations as needed.
• CRM system experience.

Responsibilities

• Plan and execute in-person and virtual events from concept through completion, including post-event follow-up, analysis, and budget reconciliation.
• Manage event logistics including venue and vendor research, contract negotiations, invitation strategy, attendee experience, catering, staffing, AV requirements, transportation, and on-site execution.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for attorneys, vendors, and internal stakeholders throughout the event lifecycle.
• Oversee development and production of event materials, including invitations, presentations, signage, nametags, handouts, promotional items, and client gifts.
• Manage event budgets, track expenses, process invoices, and ensure timely and accurate financial reconciliation.
• Develop and maintain relationships with Chicago-area venues, restaurants, caterers, hotels, and event service providers.
• Monitor market trends, emerging event formats, venue opportunities, and best practices.
• Establish and maintain event standards, protocols, and service expectations.
• Build working relationships with attorneys, administrative leaders, and colleagues across departments.
• Collaborate with attorneys and CDE colleagues to identify and execute strategic client engagement opportunities.
• Draft, edit, and proofread event communications, presentations, marketing materials, and other client-facing content.
• Maintain accurate event attendance, relationship information, and engagement activity in the Firm’s CRM system.
• Support cross-functional client development projects and strategic initiatives across practices, industries, and offices.
• Identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency, attendee experience, and event effectiveness.
• Evaluate and leverage new technology, event platforms, and industry best practices.
• Utilize AI tools and technologies to drive efficiency, generate insights, enhance client engagement, and support innovation.
• Monitor and analyze attendee data, event outcomes, stakeholder feedback, and engagement metrics to recommend enhancements and measure ROI.

Skills

Event Planning

Project Management

Client Development

Budget Management

CRM Proficiency

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Tools

CRM Systems

Microsoft Office

Adobe Suite

Event Technology Tools

Job description

Simpson Thacher in Chicago seeks an experienced events professional to plan and execute high-profile client-facing events. You will manage logistics, vendor contracts, and post-event analysis while collaborating with attorneys and cross-functional teams.

The role requires a Bachelor’s degree and 5-6+ years in events or client development, strong communication, and the ability to travel as needed. Proficiency with CRM systems and event tech is essential.