Sr Manager, Meetings and Events

Irving, TX, USA|

Job Overview

Compensation

Salary

Range $43,100.00 - $71,800.00

Benefits

Travel perks

health benefits

wellness programs

401(k) program

Employee assistance program

Pet insurance

Discounts on hotels, cars, cruises

Job Description

American Airlines is the largest airline in the world, renowned for its extensive global network that connects more than 365 destinations through over 6,800 daily flights. As an industry leader in air travel, American Airlines is committed to delivering exceptional service, innovative solutions, and unique travel experiences. Founded on a foundation of inclusion and diversity, the airline prides itself on fostering a dynamic workforce supported by over 20 Employee Business Resource Groups that enhance connection amongst team members, customers, suppliers, communities, and shareholders. The company’s core mission centers on caring for people on life’s journeys while providing outstanding career growth and work-life balance opportunities to its employees.

This role presents an exciting opportunity within American Airlines for a highly experienced events leader who is passionate about creating world-class experiences that align with business strategies and foster strong team collaboration. This position is responsible for leading the planning, development, and execution of business events ranging in size from small meetings to major conferences involving up to 10,000 attendees. The ideal candidate will bring innovative and creative thinking to optimize customer and team member experiences within both in-person and virtual event formats.

As a critical part of the enterprise events team, this leader will work closely with senior company stakeholders to define strategic visions for company-wide events including recognition programs, customer meetings, and multifaceted conferences. This role requires seasoned expertise in managing complex event logistics such as audiovisual production, food and beverage services, accommodations, and transportation. Leading a high-performing team of event professionals, the candidate will ensure that all events meet standards related to brand consistency, production quality, teamwork, creativity, and budget discipline.

Beyond tactical event management, this position entails driving continuous innovation and process improvements to enhance operational efficiency and participant engagement. The successful candidate will have significant financial responsibility, owning multimillion-dollar budgets with a focus on forecasting, cost control, and delivering projects within budgeted constraints. They will be adept at navigating a fast-paced, global environment that demands juggling multiple priorities while maintaining exceptional quality standards.

American Airlines offers a comprehensive benefits package from day one, including health, dental, vision, and prescription coverage, virtual doctor visits, wellness programs, 401(k) plans with employer contributions, and exclusive travel perks benefiting employees and their families. The inclusive corporate culture encourages employees to bring their authentic selves to work, supported by programs that promote professional growth and diversity. Joining American Airlines as an events leader means embarking on a rewarding career path where you can develop industry-leading expertise, contribute to significant company initiatives, and enjoy a vibrant, supportive workplace that values your contributions and well-being.

Job Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in relevant field or equivalent experience/training
7+ years of experience in corporate meetings, conferences and/or strategic event planning
Able to travel (+30%) and work extended hours as necessary, including evenings and weekends
2+ years of leadership experience with direct or indirect reports
MPI certification
Excellent leadership and teamwork skills
Expertise with Cvent and other event software
Excellent written and verbal communication, project management and presentation skills
Able to work collaboratively, as well as independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously
Willingness to work under pressure and meet critical deadlines
Polished professional presence and discretion in handling confidential information
Demonstrated proficiency in Microsoft Office software (Excel, Word, Outlook, and PowerPoint)

Job Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in relevant field or equivalent experience/training
7+ years of experience in corporate meetings, conferences and/or strategic event planning
2+ years of leadership experience with direct or indirect reports
3 years of experience in the airline or travel industry preferred
Proven track record creating, managing, and executing business events, including demonstrated ROIs/KPIs
Well versed in event strategy and trends for in-person, virtual, and hybrid meetings and events
MPI certification
Excellent leadership and teamwork skills
Expertise with Cvent and other event software
Excellent written and verbal communication, project management and presentation skills
Able to work collaboratively, as well as independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously
Willingness to work under pressure and meet critical deadlines
Polished professional presence and discretion in handling confidential information
Demonstrated proficiency in Microsoft Office software (Excel, Word, Outlook, and PowerPoint)

Job Duties

Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of event professionals, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement
Define and drive the strategic vision for large-scale events, overseeing all components including program design, creative direction, registration, audiovisual production, food and beverage, accommodations, and transportation logistics
Oversee and optimize vendor strategy and partnerships across venues, hotels, agencies, and technology providers, including sourcing, negotiations, and performance management
Provide executive oversight of complex event operations, including production build-outs, staffing models, speaker and executive engagement, and onsite execution
Establish and enforce standards for sustainability, safety, security, and compliance, including emergency protocols and permitting requirements
Partner with senior stakeholders to define event objectives and success metrics
act as a strategic advisor and key decision-maker to ensure alignment and program success
Drive innovation and process improvement across event planning and execution, enhancing both operational efficiency and participant experience
Own and manage multimillion-dollar event budgets with strong financial discipline, including forecasting, cost control, and delivering programs under budget
Lead multiple concurrent programs in a fast-paced, global environment, balancing strategic priorities with operational execution while maintaining a high standard of quality
Leverage data, feedback, and post-event evaluations to assess effectiveness, improve future programs, and consistently deliver high attendee satisfaction and engagement
Build strong relationships across all levels of the organization, influencing stakeholders and ensuring seamless cross-functional collaboration