Special Events Manager

Sodexo Corporate Servies is looking for a Special Events Planner this position will be mostly Monday – Friday

The Special Event Planner will work closely with our customers to book and coordinate services for meetings and events in the client HQ facility in Oakland, California.  The building is in downtown Oakland and serves as the main location for leadership.  The building has 27 floors, there is dedicated and flexible meeting space on each floor including a large auditorium.  This position is responsible for coordinating various high-level meetings for our client including Board meetings, all hands meetings, community events.  In addition, this role will oversee several amenity offerings at the site and help to manage the program for our client. 

The Special Events Manager will coordinate services from the Conference, Catering, Audiovisual and Facilities departments for the successful execution of daily meetings and events. This individual provides oversight at the direction of management on site to coordinate routine work activities of the Events department. Ideal candidate will have experience working with events and conference services.  Knowledge of catering, room and event management systems required.  Experience in large scale, multi-day event production preferred.  

This position requires a candidate that will constantly strive to foster a culture of hospitality and find new and innovative methods to enhance the client meeting and event experience. 

• Identifying requirements and expectations for each event 
• Implementing event concepts and themes 
• Preparing event budgets and processing invoices
• Plan events in line with the budget drawn-up for the event
• Organizing suppliers, caterers, staff, and entertainment
• Managing set-up, tear-down, and clean-up operations
• Anticipating attendee needs and preparing against potential risks
• Conduct a pre- and post-event analysis to be able to plan properly and to also be able to improve in different areas
• Maintain good relationship with various vendors involved in the event, as well as with venue owners
• Put in place some contingency plans in case of unforeseen scenarios or mishaps during an event
• Supervise activities going on during events; welcome guests and serve as the “problem-solver” on the day

Compensation is fair and equitable, partially determined by a candidate's education level or years of relevant experience. Salary offers are based on a candidate's specific criteria, like experience, skills, education, and training. Sodexo offers a comprehensive benefits package that may include:

• Medical, Dental, Vision Care and Wellness Programs
• 401(k) Plan with Matching Contributions
• Paid Time Off and Company Holidays
• Career Growth Opportunities and Tuition Reimbursement

More extensive information is provided to new employees upon hire.

• Strong multi-tasking skills. Able to prioritize job requirements and effectively manage multiple projects in tandem
• A highly organized, self-directed business style with a strong ability to prioritize
• Exceptional customer service and communication skills
• Demonstrated ability to foster strong relationships and build trust with clients, vendors and coworkers
• Strong leadership skills with a focus on staff development and team building
• A Flexible and adaptable attitude with demonstrated ability to work well under pressure and meet tight deadlines

At Sodexo, our purpose is to create a better everyday for everyone and build a better life for all. We believe in improving the quality of life for those we serve and contributing to the economic, social, and environmental progress in the communities where we operate. Sodexo partners with clients to provide a truly memorable experience for both customers and employees alike. We do this by providing food service, catering, facilities management, and other integrated solutions worldwide.

Our company values you for you; you will be treated fairly and with respect, and you can be yourself. You will have your ideas count and your opinions heard because we can be a stronger team when you’re happy at work. This is why we embrace diversity and inclusion as core values, fostering an environment where all employees are valued and respected. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to individuals regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, gender identity, pregnancy, disability, sexual orientation, military status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. If you need assistance with the application process, please complete this form.

Minimum Education Requirement - Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent experience

Minimum Management Experience - 3 years
Minimum Functional Experience - 3 years