SANS Institute Manager, Event Contracting (Remote) in Phoenix, Arizona
Job Description
About SANS
SANS Institute (SANS) launched in 1989 as a cooperative for information security thought leadership, it is SANS’ ongoing mission to empower cyber security professionals with the practical skills and knowledge they need to make our world a safer place. We fuel this effort with high quality training, certifications, scholarship academies, degree programs, cyber ranges, and resources to meet the needs of every cyber professional. Our data, research, and the top minds in cybersecurity collectively ensure that individuals and organizations have the actionable education and support they need.
Join the SANS Team
At SANS, our culture is defined by Mission, Brand, People. Our goal is to hire people who understand the importance of continuing to fight against the cyber security threats (Mission) while delivering the highest quality training (Brand) to our students. We want employees whose personal values align well with our culture of fairness, honesty, customer focus, and pragmatic approach (People).
Summary of Position
We are seeking a skilled and experienced Manager, Event Contracting to join a dynamic team of critical thinkers within the North America Live Training (NALT) business unit. This position will play a crucial role on a team with 3 others and will be jointly responsible for venue sourcing, negotiating, and signing of agreements for approximately 40 events to take place in North America. They will work closely with various stakeholders to ensure that our events are held in premium facilities that meet our standards for quality. They will co-lead with the Director, Event Contracting on risk management and mitigation initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
Venue Sourcing: Research and identify suitable hotel venues for our cybersecurity summit & training events. This involves evaluating factors such as location, capacity, amenities, and cost to ensure that venues align with our requirements and budget.
Contract Negotiation: Negotiate favorable terms and conditions with hotel venues, including room rates, catering services, audiovisual equipment, and cancellation policies. Work to secure competitive pricing, identify cost savings, and maximize value for our organization.
Relationship Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with hotel representatives and event vendors to facilitate smooth communication and collaboration throughout the event planning process. Serve alongside our Meeting Planning division, as the main point of contact for venue-related inquiries and issues.
Cost Management: Report on contract costs to ensure events are accurately forecasted and YOY costs are managed in line with business expectations.
Contract Administration: Oversee the preparation, review, and execution of venue contracts, ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements. Mitigating risk is a priority! Maintain organized records of all contractual agreements and related documentation.
Event Logistics Support: Collaborate with the event planning team (as needed) to coordinate logistical details.
Continuous Improvement: Stay informed about industry trends, market conditions, and best practices in event contracting. Identify opportunities for process optimization and cost-saving initiatives to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of our event planning efforts.
Basic Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in hospitality management, Business Administration, or related field.
Proven experience in event contracting, preferably within the hospitality industry or event management sector
Experience in CVENT is required
Strong negotiation skills with a track record of securing favorable terms and pricing
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport and collaborate effectively with internal and external stakeholders
Detail-oriented mindset with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
Proficiency in contract management software, Microsoft Office Suite, and Smartsheet.
Knowledge of cybersecurity industry trends and terminology is a plus.
Comfortable working in a remotely distributed organization.
Preferred Qualifications
- CMP certification is preferred
Reporting Relationships
- This position will report to the Director of Event Contracting and has no direct reports.
Work Environment
- Remote work with the ability to travel domestically (up to 10%); Domestic Travel; Travel may include site visits, on-site support, industry events and team meetings.
Equal Opportunity Employer
SANS is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process, or to perform the essential functions of a position, please contact SANS Human Resources.
California residents for SANS privacy notice for California job applicants
The base salary range for this position is between $65,000 and $80,000. Base salary ranges may vary by geographic location and relevant experience, education, certifications, and years of experience. There is no guarantee an offer will be at the top of the posted range based on the salary analysis.
In addition, SANS provides the following benefits:
Medical
Dental
Vision
Short-Term Disability
401(k) with company match
Employee Assistance Program
Supplemental Life Insurance and AD&D
Paid Time Off
Company Paid Holidays
Volunteer Paid Time Off
Department
North America Live Training (NALT)
Employment Type
US Employee | Full-Time
Minimum Experience
Experienced
Compensation
$65,000 – $80,000