Overview:

Leads a team of event professionals with the logistics organization and delivery of complex multi-day, multi-element events on behalf of the Bank.  This position is accountable for the financial plan, results, and reconciliation related to these events; and manages client expectations with the team.  Sets the policies and procedures related to the strategic meetings management process (SMMP) for internal clients through site selection analysis, supplier negotiations and contract management of event and travel resources.  Serves as liaison between internal clients/employees and external suppliers to ensure travel and event needs are met in the most cost-effective manner.   Provides onsite event coordinating logistics as required.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Serve as a supervisor in leading the logistics organization, delivery, and financial reconciliation of complex multi-day, multi-element conferences.  Guide team throughout event production to secure planning and meeting of deadlines.
• Assign work to team members based on scope of event and type of attendees.
• Provide consultation where needed and assess client needs, while ensuring compliance with the Bank's policies as procedures.
• Review and provide recommended edits to standard Bank Corporate Meetings contract to ensure the policies are up-to-date and adhere to the current industry standards, while mitigating risks to the organization.
• Formulate proposals and cost analysis of event/travel options for requested space as needed.
• Maintain vendor relationships and review annual spend to negotiate long term rates and concessions.
• Manage and oversee our Cvent Event Platform and registration process, provide yearly reporting and cost savings data when requested.
• Create and maintain department policy and procedures manuals as it relates to meetings and events.
• Oversee the department’s Intranet site and overall strategic communications plan.
• Conduct site visits and inspections of venues as required to ensure suitability for internal customer needs.
• Exercise usual authority of a manager concerning staffing, performance appraisals, promotions, salary recommendations, performance management and terminations.
• Understand and adhere to the Company’s risk and regulatory standards, policies and controls in accordance with the Company’s Risk Appetite.  Design, implement, maintain and enhance internal controls to mitigate risk on an ongoing basis.  Identify risk-related issues needing escalation to management.
• Promote an environment that supports belonging and reflects the M&T Bank brand.
• Maintain M&T internal control standards, including timely implementation of internal and external audit points together with any issues raised by external regulators as applicable.
• Complete other related duties as assigned.

Scope of Responsibilities:

Education and Experience Required:

Bachelor’s degree and a minimum of 3 years’ proven event/meeting planning experience, or in lieu of a degree, a combined minimum of 7 years’ higher education and/or work experience, including a minimum of 3 years’ proven event/meeting planning experience

Minimum of 2 years’ work leadership and/or supervisory experience

Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) designation

Experience managing multiple tasks and prioritizing among assignments

Experience delegating assignments to less experienced personnel

Experience working

Domestic travel ranging from 20 - 30% of the time

Exceptional organizational skills

Exceptional analytical skills

Detail-oriented

Experience identifying process improvements and efficiencies

Strong negotiation skills of hotel/venue contract management

Education and Experience Preferred:

Bachelor’s degree in hospitality/travel industry or related field (i.e. Business Administration, Marketing, Communications, Public Relations, etc.)

Minimum of 5 years proven event/meeting planning experience

3-5 years experience with using the Cvent Event Platform

Strong working knowledge of Strategic Meetings Management Program (SMMP) processes

History of enforcement of SMM program initiatives

Experience with the build and maintenance of event registration software

Member of industry association

M&T Bank is committed to fair, competitive, and market-informed pay for our employees. The pay range for this position is $71,985.72 - $119,976.20 Annual (USD). The successful candidate’s particular combination of knowledge, skills, and experience will inform their specific compensation.

Location

Buffalo, New York, United States of America