Conference and Event Manager

Stanford Graduate School of Business (GSB) is a world-renowned institution recognized globally for its immersive and innovative management programs. Known for pushing the boundaries of knowledge through cutting-edge faculty research, GSB provides transformative leadership experiences that foster the development of innovative, principled, and insightful leaders. These leaders are equipped to change lives, transform organizations, and impact the world positively. The school offers a diverse portfolio of entrepreneurial and non-degree programs, all designed to deliver global impact and advance the frontiers of business education. As part of the prestigious Stanford University located in California, the GSB campus covers 19.5 acres and includes the Knight Management Center, GSB Residences, and the Schwab Residential Center, encompassing nearly 700,000 square feet of facilities that support a wide range of academic, administrative, residential, and food service functions.

Within Stanford GSB, the Facilities & Hospitality Department, specifically the Event Operations team, is seeking a dedicated and highly skilled Conference and Event Manager for a fixed one-year term. This is a full-time, primarily onsite position with the potential for one remote day per week. The Conference and Event Manager will partner closely with Stanford GSB's various departments and event owners to expertly plan and execute a broad spectrum of events including high-profile speaker sessions, academic conferences, seminars, executive programs, and student educational opportunities. This role is crucial in managing a portfolio of events that vary in size and complexity—from single-day seminars to large, multi-day conferences. The position demands an experienced project leader who is also a subject matter expert in event logistics and operations, including but not limited to audiovisual setups, equipment and furnishings, registration management, catering coordination, vendor management, and on-site event support.

The ideal candidate for this role must possess exceptional judgment, integrity, flexibility, and creativity coupled with a positive, customer-oriented attitude. Collaboration and consultation skills are paramount, alongside a good sense of humor to navigate the frequently shifting priorities typical in event management. The Conference and Event Manager plays a vital role in budget planning and oversight, venue and equipment management, scheduling strategies, and compliance with facilities regulations including environmental health and safety mandates. Furthermore, this role involves utilizing and maintaining complex reservation systems and event planning software to ensure smooth execution of virtual, hybrid, and in-person events. Strong interpersonal and communication skills are essential for building and nurturing relationships with internal stakeholders, external partners, and visiting entities such as speakers, panelists, alumni, and program participants.

Stanford University offers a competitive salary range for this role ($82,650 to $101,690 annually for full-time employment), reflecting a good-faith estimate based on the position's scope, candidate qualifications, and market standards. Beyond salary, Stanford prides itself on a comprehensive rewards package that includes excellent health care, retirement plans, generous vacation policies, and access to wellness and family support programs. Joining Stanford means being part of a highly collaborative and innovative culture that encourages continuous improvement and career development. Employees have opportunities for tuition reimbursement, access to wellness facilities, and participation in enriching campus events, all situated within a vibrant academic and cultural environment.