Events Manager

Position Title: Events Manager
Location: Tysons, VA (Hybrid in the DC Area)
COMPANY OVERVIEW:
Merlin Group is a network of companies that invests in, enables, and scales technology companies with disruptive cyber solutions. Our affiliates – Merlin Ventures, CGC, and Merlin Cyber -- not only accelerate time to revenue for cyber companies, but together, they also make cyber innovations more accessible to the U.S. Government and critical infrastructure markets.
SUMMARY:
Merlin is seeking a dynamic and experienced Events Manager with an understanding of cybersecurity industry events and familiarity with the U.S. public sector market. The successful candidate will be responsible for developing and overseeing the strategy and execution of all Merlin Group events. This role requires a strategic thinker with a sleeves-rolled-up, detail-oriented attitude who has extensive experience flawlessly designing and executing world-class, large-scale integrated events.
This position requires candidates to be in the DC Area and within driving distance of our office to work at least one day per week from our headquarters in Tysons, VA.
MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Event Planning:

• Create and manage annual event calendar
• Coordinate with internal staff, partners, and vendors to establish the requirements for an event, and serve as liaison to senior executives and industry leaders throughout the planning process
• Identify resources, visit sites, and lead pre-event meetings to help staff make decisions about event design
• Plan and facilitate logistics for all events, including contract negotiations, guest lists, venue preparation, presentation materials, security, catering, entertainment, transportation, equipment, decor, and marketing materials
• Ensure event goals and metrics are clearly established, communicated, and are properly set up to be effectively measured during post-event debrief meetings

Event Execution:

• Oversee every detail of the events to ensure flawless event execution that meet expectations
• Manage on-site preparations, production, and event breakdown; and ensure consistent, high-level service throughout all phases
• Build and maintain a comprehensive database of industry contacts, vendors, and venues, maintaining close relationships with vendors
• Troubleshoot any issues that arise on event day

Post-Event Measurement & Reporting:

• Schedule debrief meetings after events to capture immediate feedback and lessons learned
• Recommend innovative approaches to continually improve event strategy and performance

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in marketing, communications or event management
• Minimum of 10+ years of large-scale integrated event management experience, including c-level networking receptions and experiential events
• Minimum of 5+ years managing events in the cyber industry with events such as RSA, BlackHat, and others
• Demonstrated success in meeting and exceeding event goals for branding, thought leadership, and pipeline building

SUCCESS ATTRIBUTES:

• Commitment to personal and professional integrity and respect for others
• Roll-up your sleeves attitude and low-ego approach
• Commitment to teamwork and professional relationship development
• Flexible and nimble; comfortable with ambiguity and rapid change
• Strong communication and functional project management skills
• Ability and desire to innovate, try new things, and creatively explore novel solutions to business challenges
• Professional and respectful approach to the diversity of thought, action, identity, and attributes

BENEFITS AND PERKS:
At Merlin, we want to empower and inspire employees to be and do their best. Workdays are dynamic, collegial, and fun. Our office features multiple places to work unconstrained by typical office barriers. Our wellness package provides access to an on-site gym and includes medical, dental, and vision insurance along with options for FSA and EAP. We offer 401(k) with employer match, unlimited PTO, and a culture respectful of the reality that not everything in one's personal life is guaranteed to happen only after hours.
Merlin International, Inc. does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law or regulation. It is our intention that all qualified applicants be given equal opportunity and that selection decisions be based on job-related factors.