Events & Programs Manager

About the Department

The University of North Carolina System’s Small Business and Technology Development Center (SBTDC), in partnership with the US Small Business Administration, is the recognized, primary organization through which the state of North Carolina provides business counseling, management education, and technology development services to help the business community successfully meet challenges, manage change, and plan for the future.

Location: Raleigh, NC

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, and Vision
• Flexible Spending Account
• Retirement Programs
• Disability Plans
• Life Insurance
• Accident Plan
• Paid Time Off and Other Leave Programs
• 12 Holidays Each Year
• Tuition and Academic Assistance
• Childcare benefits
• Wellness & Recreation Membership
• Wellness Programs

Responsibilities

• Venue Sourcing & Contracting: Strategically source off‑campus venues (hotels, conference centers, restaurants, community spaces) that match the organization’s goals; evaluate and select venues based on cost, accessibility, layout, location, and program guidelines and requirements; lead contract negotiations; maintain and update a vetted venue database covering all regions of NC.
• Budget Management: Authorize and forecast overall event budgets to ensure cost‑effective decision‑making; approve expenditures and track real‑time budget performance across all events; secure, manage and coordinate with external sponsors (if applicable).
• Event Planning & Management: Develop and implement event frameworks, operational timelines and registration logistics; manage end‑to‑end production execution and needs, including technology/AV setups, branding, materials, and facility layouts.
• Vendor Management: Serve as the final decision‑maker and main contact for contracts with venues, caterers, AV providers, and other key suppliers; build and cultivate a statewide network of preferred vendors.
• Engagement & Event Standards: Establish and monitor quality and service standards for all events, including specialized setups and dietary accommodations; approve and oversee catering decisions to ensure they align with both budgets and event goals.
• On‑Site Event Execution: Direct on‑site operations during events, managing any emergency troubleshooting; lead operations, ensuring on‑time start/end and seamless program delivery.
• Internal Coordination: Collaborate with the SBTDC communications team and leadership to align event logistics with marketing and organizational goals; provide consultative guidance and direction to regional staff to help plan and execute local events.
• Other Responsibilities: Ensure compliance with federal grant and state funding requirements; maintain compliance with rules and regulations governing the funding for events.

Qualifications

• Minimum Education and Experience: Bachelor’s degree; 3‑5+ years of experience in leading, designing, and managing large‑scale conferences or multi‑location events.
• Other Required Qualifications: Experience negotiating business contracts and managing vendors; familiarity with hotel contracts, developing and managing complex program or event budgets, catering coordination.
• Preferred Qualifications: Experience coordinating deliverables and financial tracking with corporate or public sponsors; CMP (Certified Meeting Professional) or similar certification.
• Required License(s) Or Certification(s): Valid NC Driver's License required; Commercial Driver's License not required.

Pay

$70,000 - $75,000

Schedule

M-F 8:30-4:30 with travel