Events Operations Manager

Sunnyvale, CA, USA|Remote, Travel, Onsite

Job Overview

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Employment Type

Full-time
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Compensation

Salary
Range $120,000.00 - $150,000.00
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Work Schedule

Standard Hours
Flexible
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Benefits

Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Paid Time Off
Retirement Plan
Flexible work schedule
Professional Development
Life insurance

Job Description

The William and Flora Hewlett Foundation is a renowned philanthropic organization based in Menlo Park, California, dedicated to driving change on some of society's most pressing issues. Established nearly six decades ago, the Foundation operates with a steadfast commitment to long-term support, collaboration, and trust. With assets amounting to nearly $14 billion and annual grant awards exceeding $631 million, it operates both domestically in the United States and globally, addressing challenges such as climate change, racial justice, democracy, education, and community-led conservation. Its grantmaking approach prioritizes creative thinkers and problem solvers working to ensure the flourishing of people, communities, and the planet.

The Foundation supports a diverse range of programs including advancing gender equity, reimagining economies and governance, strengthening democracy, and supporting artistic and cultural initiatives within the San Francisco Bay Area. With a workforce of approximately 130 employees, Hewlett cultivates an inclusive, professional, and dynamic work environment that encourages continuous learning, collaboration, and respect for diversity.

The Events Operations Manager position is a pivotal role within the Communications department, dedicated to facilitating impactful convenings that strengthen networks, engage stakeholders, and advance the Foundation’s mission. This newly created role emphasizes operational and logistical excellence in event planning and execution, encompassing large-scale external events and internal all-staff convenings. Reporting to the Organizational Learning Officer, the Manager works cross-functionally with colleagues across programs and departments to ensure events are executed seamlessly and reflect Hewlett’s principles of equity and accessibility.

The ideal candidate will oversee a broad range of responsibilities including managing timelines, budgets, vendor relationships, contracts, invoicing, and event logistics both on-site and virtually. The role also involves maintaining event-related tools such as project trackers and dashboards to support institutional event planning efforts. Success in this position is marked by strong organizational skills, adaptability, a solutions-oriented mindset particularly in technology and audiovisual aspects, and the capacity to manage multiple priorities effectively while maintaining attention to detail.

As a member of the Communications team, the Events Operations Manager contributes to fostering a collaborative environment and supports the broader institutional communication strategy. The position requires occasional domestic travel and operates within a hybrid work environment with required office presence several days per week. The Hewlett Foundation offers a competitive salary range of $120,000 to $150,000 reflective of candidate experience and internal equity standards, along with a comprehensive benefits package. This role is well-suited for candidates passionate about philanthropy and experienced in managing complex events that drive meaningful societal impact.

Job Requirements

  • Bachelor's or Associate's degree or equivalent combination of education and relevant experience preferably in a nonprofit or philanthropy
  • 5-7 years of experience in operations, logistics, and production management for content-driven in-person and virtual events
  • experience supporting event logistics and protocol for high-level, VIP, and/or government speakers
  • exceptional attention to detail and strong organizational skills
  • ability to manage competing priorities and high-volume communications while meeting deadlines
  • basic project management skills
  • proven problem-solving skills especially in tech/AV
  • high proficiency with Salesforce, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Canva, and Zoom
  • tech-savvy with common event and communication platforms like Cvent, Whova, and Mailchimp
  • demonstrated expertise in event budget management
  • excellent written and oral communication skills and interpersonal skills
  • strong research skills
  • sound judgment and discretion in handling sensitive information
  • ability to work independently and collaboratively
  • curiosity and collaboration with integrity and professionalism
  • demonstrated commitment to equity and inclusion with humility and humor

Job Qualifications

  • Bachelor's or Associate's degree or equivalent education and experience
  • 5-7 years of experience in operations, logistics, and production management for in-person and virtual events
  • experience supporting logistics for high-level and VIP speakers
  • exceptional attention to detail and organizational skills
  • ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines
  • proven problem-solving skills especially with tech and AV
  • proficiency with Salesforce, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Canva, Zoom
  • tech-savvy with event platforms like Cvent, Whova, Mailchimp
  • expertise in event budget management
  • excellent written and oral communication skills
  • strong research skills
  • sound judgment and discretion
  • ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • curiosity, collaboration, integrity, and professionalism
  • demonstrated commitment to equity and inclusion with humility and humor

Job Duties

  • Serve as the primary logistics lead for Hewlett signature events
  • create and manage timelines, project trackers, and planning meetings
  • manage the Shop Talks lunchtime speaker series
  • advise and support logistical needs for other program-led events
  • collaborate with colleagues across the foundation with flexibility
  • build and maintain relationships with external speakers and attendees
  • liaise with vendors, venues, and internal teams to review budgets and coordinate details
  • process contracts, invoices, honorariums, and track budgets
  • travel for site visits and on-site event execution
  • maintain inventory of event swag and collateral
  • contribute creative session ideas and formats
  • ensure best practices in accessibility and equity
  • stay updated on event planning best practices

Job Criteria

Experience

Mid Level (3-7 years)


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