Events Manager

Job Description: GDS Meetings & Events - Event Manager

Job Title: GDS Meetings & Events - Event Manager

The GDS Meetings & Events Event Manager is responsible for the end-to-end planning, management and execution of internal and client-facing events across GDS locations. The role will partner closely with event requestors and stakeholders to deliver high-quality in-person, virtual and hybrid events while ensuring compliance with EY standards, budget requirements and attendee experience expectations.

The Event Manager will oversee all aspects of event delivery including event planning, contract execution, purchase orders, supplier coordination, logistics, rooming list management, AV and production, participant management, onsite execution and post-event closeout activities.

Key Responsibilities

Event Planning & Stakeholder Management

• Consult with event sponsors and requestors to understand objectives, audience, budget and event requirements.
• Develop and manage detailed project plans, timelines and event schedules from inception to completion.
• Provide strategic event guidance and recommendations to stakeholders throughout the event lifecycle.
• Ensure compliance with EY Meetings & Events policies, guidelines and brand standards.

Event Delivery & Logistics

• Manage all pre-event, onsite and post-event activities to ensure successful event execution.
• Coordinate venue logistics, room setups, accommodation, transportation, catering and event materials.
• Develop detailed run sheets, production schedules and operational plans for all events.
• Act as the primary onsite lead, managing event operations and resolving issues in real time.

AV Production & Branding

• Manage audio-visual production requirements, including staging, lighting, sound, live streaming and event technology.
• Coordinate with AV and production vendors to ensure seamless event delivery.
• Ensure all event branding, signage, creative assets and communications align with EY brand standards.
• Support virtual and hybrid event production requirements where applicable.

Participant & Communication Management

• Manage attendee registration, invitation communications, RSVP tracking and participant engagement using event technology platforms such as Cvent.
• Coordinate pre-event communications, joining instructions, surveys and attendee materials.
• Ensure an exceptional participant experience throughout the event journey.

Supplier & Budget Management

• Coordinate with venues, hotels, production agencies and event suppliers to ensure delivery against agreed requirements.
• Manage event budgets, track expenditures and identify cost efficiencies.
• Review supplier invoices and support event reconciliation and reporting activities

Post-Event Management

• Lead post-event reporting, stakeholder feedback collection and lessons-learned reviews.
• Ensure all event data is entered in CVENT and ARIBA accurately
• Ensure timely submissions of all vendor invoices
• Track event KPIs and provide recommendations for continuous improvement.
• Maintain accurate event documentation and reporting records.

Experience

• Min 3 - 5 years relevant experience of managing corporate meetings, events, conferences or leadership programmes.
• Proven experience managing large-scale in-person, virtual and hybrid events.
• Experience managing AV production, event technology and onsite event operations.
• Strong understanding of participant management platforms such as Cvent. 

Skills & Competencies

• End-to-end event planning and execution expertise.
• Strong AV production, event technology and branding knowledge.
• Excellent project management, organisation and multitasking abilities.
• Strong stakeholder management, communication and presentation skills.
• Budget management, supplier coordination and problem-solving capabilities.
• Ability to remain calm under pressure and successfully manage complex events.
• High attention to detail and a customer-focused mindset.