Corporate Events & Executive Relations Manager

LMCU • Grand Rapids, MI

5d • Onsite

About The Position

The Corporate Events & Executive Relations Manager is responsible for the seamless planning, coordination, and execution of events that engage the Board of Directors, Executive Leadership, and key internal and external stakeholders. Reporting to the Chief Business Officer, this role ensures that all events are delivered with excellence, professionalism, and strategic alignment to organizational goals. This position primarily follows standard business hours; however, work hours may vary based on event schedules and business needs. Occasional evenings, weekends, or extended hours may be required to support executive, board, and corporate events.

Requirements

• A bachelor's degree in business administration, hospitality, communications, marketing, public relations, or related field of study.
• Must have 5-8 years of experience in event planning, preferably in a corporate or executive setting.
• Experience with budget management, contract negotiation, and vendor relationship management.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously.
• Must be extremely proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, Publisher, PowerPoint.
• Exceptional organizational and project management skills with keen attention to details.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with ability to interact confidently with executives, board members, and external partners.
• Foster strong, positive relationships with internal teams, leadership, and external partners.
• Ability to address and resolve issues calmly and constructively, even under stress or tight deadlines.
• Use active listening and problem-solving skills to de-escalate tense situations and maintain professionalism.
• Demonstrate creativity, flexibility and adaptability in dynamic, fast-paced environments.

Responsibilities

• Executive-Level Event Planning & Execution: Plan, coordinate, and execute all executive and board-related events, including Board and leadership meetings, holiday events, offsite planning sessions and retreats, workshops, educational sessions, political meetings, etc. Oversee on-site logistics, such as setup, registration, and guest experience. Manage post-event wrap-ups, including follow-up communications and debriefs. Develop comprehensive event plans, timelines, and checklists to drive smooth execution. Design memorable personalized elements (custom gifts, engaging activities, décor).
• Corporate Hospitality & Venue Management: Oversee all corporate suite and premium hospitality experiences at Van Andel Arena and LMCU Ball Park (supporting over 200 events annually). Manage ticketing, guest communications, scheduling rotations, catering coordination, and on-call issue resolution before and during events. Ensure all event offerings are consistent across the organization. Collaborate cross-functionally with internal teams to maximize business value.
• Internal Operational Event-Planning: Lead the planning and execution of internal events, including all-manager meetings, executive leadership collaborations, and staff recognition events. Coordinate with internal teams to develop event plans, timelines, and checklists. Oversee logistics, setup, registration, and guest experience for internal events. Manage post-event communications and feedback collection.
• Budget, Vendor, and Contract Management: Develop and manage event budgets in coordination with the Chief Business Officer. Negotiate contracts and manage relationships with vendors, venues, caterers, audiovisual partners, transportation providers, etc. Review and process invoices, ensuring accuracy and compliance with contract terms. Maintain preferred vendor lists and identify new partners to enhance event quality and efficiency.
• Leadership, Communication, and Collaboration: Serve as the primary point of contact for executive leaders, board members, staff, and external partners regarding event logistics and execution. Maintain an annual event calendar for all corporate and executive activities. Implement and manage event management tools, systems, and processes for planning and reporting. Develop event communications, including invitations, agendas, and presentations. Manage guest lists, RSVPs, and special accommodations. Provide briefings, schedules, and materials to executives, board members, staff, and clients in advance of key events. Ensure confidentiality, professionalism, and discretion in all interactions.

Benefits

• All Employees: weekly pay and retirement savings options.
• Full Time Employees: comprehensive health coverage including medical (with prescription), dental, vision, HSA match, paid parental leave, and tuition reimbursement.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees