Senior Firm Events Planner
Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP · New York, United States · 3 days ago
Management$105k–$120k/yrFull-time
Key Responsibilities
- Independently manage the full lifecycle of events from ideation through execution, ensuring all details are meticulously planned and flawlessly delivered.
- Lead the conceptualization and development of event concepts, translating vision and objectives into polished, memorable experiences.
- Make informed, independent decisions on event logistics, vendor selection, budgets, and on-site adjustments to ensure seamless execution.
- Manage multiple events simultaneously, prioritizing competing deadlines and deliverables with confidence and efficiency.
- Develop and maintain detailed event timelines, run-of-show documents, and production schedules for all assigned events.
- Oversee event budgets, tracking expenditures and making real-time decisions to ensure events are delivered on time and within scope.
- Cultivate and manage relationships with premier restaurants, securing reservations and private dining arrangements that align with the firm's luxury standards and meet the unique needs of each event.
- Identify, evaluate, and manage relationships with luxury hotels, venues, caterers, entertainment providers, and other event vendors.
- Negotiate contracts and manage vendor deliverables, holding partners accountable to the firm's standards of quality and service.
- Serve as the primary liaison between the firm and all external vendors, ensuring clear communication and consistent execution.
- Continuously assess and cultivate a network of premium vendors and venues to support the firm's evolving event needs.
- Deliver luxury-level hospitality and anticipatory service across all events, ensuring every guest — from associates to senior partners and high-profile clients — feels valued and exceptionally well cared for.
- Manage VIP guest arrangements, including travel coordination, accommodations, personalized amenities, and special requests, with the utmost discretion and attention to detail.
- Serve as an on-site presence at events, overseeing all aspects of execution and making real-time decisions to address any issues that arise.
- Uphold the firm's reputation for excellence by consistently delivering polished, sophisticated, and memorable event experiences.
- Partner closely with firm leadership, attorneys, and practice groups to understand event objectives and deliver tailored experiences that align with their vision.
- Communicate effectively and professionally with high-level internal and external stakeholders, providing proactive updates and managing expectations throughout the planning process.
- Prepare and present event proposals, recaps, and recommendations to leadership, demonstrating strategic thinking and a solutions-oriented approach.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with internal teams including Catering, Facilities, AV, and Marketing to ensure cohesive event execution.
- Maintain accurate and organized event records, including contracts, budgets, vendor communications, and post-event evaluations.
- Identify opportunities to improve event planning processes, workflows, and vendor relationships, making recommendations that elevate the overall program.
- Stay current on industry trends, luxury hospitality standards, and emerging event concepts to continuously enhance the firm's event offerings.
- Perform additional duties and special initiatives as assigned.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree preferred; minimum 7+ years of progressive event planning experience in a luxury hospitality, professional services, or high-end corporate environment.
- Proven ability to independently manage and execute a diverse range of events, from intimate gatherings to complex multi-day conferences and retreats.
- Demonstrated experience working with and communicating effectively with senior-level executives, high-profile clients, and VIP guests.
- Strong decision-making skills with the ability to exercise sound judgment, problem-solve in real time, and manage competing priorities with confidence.
- Exceptional organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple events simultaneously without compromising quality.
- Deep knowledge of luxury hospitality standards and a genuine passion for delivering elevated, personalized guest experiences.
- Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills — both written and verbal — with a polished, professional presence.
- Proven vendor management and contract negotiation experience, with an established network of premium restaurants, venues, and service providers preferred.
- Ability to travel and work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, as event schedules require.
Pay
$105,000-$120,000 (exempt).
Paul, Weiss offers competitive compensation and benefits packages. The firm considers a number of factors when determining compensation, including, but not limited to, education, years of experience, levels of experience, competency levels and other relevant skills and qualifications.