Events Manager

Sun Life • Kansas City, MO

60d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Events Manager leads an exciting portfolio of in-person, virtual, and hybrid internal and external events for Sun Life U.S., providing expert guidance to achieve business objectives, quality standards, and engagement goals through the effective use of digital platforms, emerging event technologies, and data-driven insights. A creative solutions expert, the Events Manager ensures the seamless delivery of program components and event logistics while embracing new technologies—including AI-enabled tools—to streamline planning, enhance attendee engagement, and continuously improve outcomes. Taking a hands-on leadership role, the Events Manager produces signature events for a wide range of business partners and collaborates closely with stakeholders, team members, and vendors. This role works in partnership with Marketing, Distribution, Human Resources, Communications, AV Services, and Multimedia teams to deliver impactful, innovative experiences that make Sun Life a valued partner to our clients and a great place to work.

Requirements

• 10+ years of advanced expertise in a meetings and events production environment, delivering exceptional experiences for in-person and virtual corporate audiences.
• A proven track record of collaborating closely with production, technical, multimedia, and marketing partners, using a wide range of platforms, media, and venues.
• Advanced technological abilities, including Excel and the Microsoft Office Suite, with experience using AI-enabled productivity tools (e.g., Microsoft Copilot) and the ability to quickly learn and adopt new technologies and platforms.
• Experience leveraging databases, CRM systems, event and marketing platforms, website tools, and digital engagement technologies to support event strategy and execution.
• A proactive, self-directed mindset with strong judgment, initiative, and confidence in decision-making.
• A passion for developing creative, innovative experiences, with an eye toward emerging trends, tools, and techniques.
• Strong ability to manage multiple priorities in fast-paced, deadline-driven, high-volume, live production environments.
• Extensive budget management experience, including forecasting, expense tracking, reconciliation, and reporting.
• Excellent relationship-building, negotiation, and problem-solving skills with internal stakeholders, vendors, and partners.

Nice To Haves

• Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) designation
• Knowledge of Cvent, Wrike, ON24, and other virtual or hybrid event and digital marketing platforms
• Experience applying data insights and emerging technologies to improve event strategy, engagement, and efficiency.
• Deep knowledge of industry-related contracts and terminology
• Involvement in industry-related associations

Responsibilities

• Manage all aspects of event and project execution for conferences, multi-day meetings, receptions, and incentive travel, including event itineraries, show flows, rehearsals, programming and entertainment, budgets and expenses, content and presentation coordination, vendor contracts, attendee registration and communications, travel, gifting, food and beverage, staffing, safety planning, and post-event reporting.
• Manage event websites, attendee platforms, and digital event marketing platforms (e.g., ON24 or similar tools), ensuring a cohesive, engaging, and data-informed attendee experience.
• Lead the hands-on planning and execution of high-complexity events, both virtual and on-site, directing internal teams, external partners, and talent to ensure flawless agenda delivery, including show calling and floor management.
• Advise business partners on event agendas that inspire, connect, and engage audiences; leverage industry networks to recommend speakers, bureaus, and creative talent that drive business results through compelling content and experiences.
• Incorporate innovative, technology-enabled ways to involve and interact with audiences, including interactive virtual and hybrid experiences, digital engagement tools, and platform-driven personalization.
• Leverage AI-enabled tools (such as Microsoft Copilot and related technologies) to support event planning, communications, content development, reporting, and operational efficiency.
• Manage and contract event vendors in accordance with Sun Life guidelines, including destination management companies, venues, keynote speakers, promotional items, and spousal or family programs; research and recommend new vendors and services to enhance offerings.
• Ensure accurate administration of event expenses and billing, including approvals, forecasting, reconciliation, and reporting; identify opportunities for cost efficiencies and savings.
• Adhere to company policies and industry best practices throughout the event lifecycle—pre, during, and post-event.
• Lead or contribute to team initiatives that improve tools, processes, resources, and ways of working for the broader events team.

Benefits

• Generous vacation and sick time
• Market-leading paid family, parental and adoption leave
• Medical coverage
• Company paid life and AD&D insurance
• Disability programs
• Partially paid sabbatical program
• 401(k) employer match
• Stock purchase options
• Employer-funded retirement account
• Flexible, inclusive and collaborative work environment that supports career growth

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed