Events Manager - New England

Sun Life•Portland, ME

1d•$81,000 - $121,500•Hybrid

About The Position

Sun Life embraces a hybrid work model that balances in-office collaboration with the flexibility of virtual work. Our team members and leaders are expected to foster connection and teamwork by being present in either the Wellesley MA, Hartford CT, or Portland Me office at least 2 days per week. The Events Manager leads an exciting line-up of in-person, virtual and hybrid internal and external events for Sun Life U.S., providing expert knowledge to meet business objectives, quality standards and engagement goals. A creative solutions expert, the Events Manager ensures the superb delivery of program components and event logistics. The Events Manager takes a hands-on lead role producing signature events for a range of business partners, and collaborates with stakeholders, team members and vendors. The Events Manager works closely with the Marketing, Distribution, Human Resources, Communication, AV Services and Multimedia teams in the efficient and effective delivery of Sun Life’s goals. As a resource for business partners across Sun Life, the U.S. Events team provides event management and production support for a robust portfolio of internal and external stakeholders. Reporting to the AVP, Philanthropy, Events & Design, the Events Manager creates experiences that make Sun Life a great partner to our Clients, and a great place to work.

Requirements

10+ years of advanced expertise in a meeting and event production environment, creating exceptional experiences for virtual and in-person corporate audiences.
Well-accomplished event professional, with an inspiring track record of using a wide range of media, platforms and venues, regularly working in close collaboration with production, technical and multimedia teams.
Advanced technological abilities, including Excel and expertise in the MS Office Suite, with experience using AI-enabled productivity tools (e.g., Microsoft Copilot) and the ability to quickly adopt new technologies and platforms.
Determined to be inspiring and motivating, with experience managing partners, vendors and internal planning teams to deliver high quality work.
Regularly show initiative and drive, and as a self-starter you’re confident in your abilities and decision-making.
Passion for developing and executing creative and innovative experiences, with your finger on the pulse of the latest trends and techniques.
Can see the big picture, and you’re often one step ahead of your partners and team members seeing solutions as issues emerge.
Excellent track record in fast paced, deadline driven, high-volume and live production environments.
Extensive budget management experience, with solid experiences tracking expenses and reconciliation.
Build strong business relationships with stakeholders, vendors, staff, and team members; you’ve got a strong ability to negotiate and resolve issues smoothly and effectively.

Nice To Haves

Certified Meeting Professional designation is an asset
Knowledge of Cvent, Wrike, ON24, and other virtual or hybrid event and digital marketing platforms is an asset.
Experience applying data insights and emerging technologies to improve event strategy, engagement, and efficiency.
Deep knowledge of industry-related contracts and terminology (e.g. platforms, venues, speakers, vendors, etc.)
Involvement in industry-related associations

Responsibilities

For assigned events, responsible for all aspects of event and project management for conferences, multi-day meetings, receptions, and incentive travel, including advising and detailing event itineraries, show flows, rehearsals, programming/entertainment, event website and attendee platform management, budgets/expenses, content/presentation coordination, service/vendor/supplier contracts, attendee registration/communications, travel, gifting, food and beverage management, staffing and safety planning and post-event reporting.
Lead the hands-on planning and execution of high-complexity events, including online and/or on-site event delivery, directing teams and talent to ensure the seamless execution of the event agenda, including show calling and floor managing.
In support of business partners, advise on business agendas to inspire, connect and engage attendees; leverage industry networks to recommend external speakers/speakers bureaus and creative talent who can help drive business results through engaging presentations and experiences.
Incorporate innovative ways to involve and interact with our audiences, cultivating memorable and enduring experiences.
Managing, contracting all event vendors according to Sun Life guidelines, including destination management companies, venues, keynote speakers, promotional items and spousal/family programs.
Research and recommending new vendors and services to offer as recommended partners.
Ensuring the proper administration of event expenses and billing including approval and forecasting processes for events; identify opportunities for savings.
Processing payment requests, purchase orders, chargebacks and reconciliation and reporting for all event-related costs is properly completed by team members.
Adhere to company policies and industry best practices for the event planning processes, pre, during and post-events
Leading specific team initiatives to improve resources, practices and processes for the benefit of the broader team.