Conference Services Event Planner

About the Role:

Join our Conference Services team to support the planning, coordination, and execution of high-level events for prominent clients. This role is ideal for an energetic, detail-oriented professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment and is passionate about delivering exceptional client experiences. You will contribute to large-scale conferences while independently managing smaller programs, ensuring excellence across all event touchpoints.

The Impact You'll Make:

• Support larger events by managing logistics such as meeting space, room set-up, catering, audio visual needs, and participant travel

• Prepare and distribute registration reports, including attendance, rooming lists, travel manifests, and activity summaries

• Create and maintain conference websites to support event communication and engagement

• Partner with the Director of Conference Services and Senior Event Planners to manage logistics and travel for various business unit events

• Collaborate with marketing and internal stakeholders to develop communications such as invitations, brochures, and event signage

• Independently plan and execute smaller events (10–50 attendees), including venue selection, registration, communications, and on-site coordination

• Develop budgets, cost proposals, and post-event recaps for conferences and special events

• Research and recommend venues nationwide based on program needs, attendee size, and desired outcomes

• Review and proof marketing materials, including invitations, announcements, signage, and event programs

• Coordinate with the travel team to arrange air and ground transportation for event participants

• Build and maintain strong vendor and internal relationships through effective communication

What You'll Bring to Baird:

• Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Business, Communications, or related field; 3+ years of meeting planning experience preferred

• Financial services industry experience preferred

• Advanced computer proficiency in Word, Excel, Access, and Outlook, including mail merges, database usage, and basic graphic creation

• Strong grammar, editing, and proofreading skills with exceptional attention to detail

• Ability to manage peak workloads and multiple priorities while maintaining accuracy and a calm, professional demeanor

• Demonstrated commitment to delivering exceptional customer service

• Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to meet deadlines

• Self-starter with the ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment

• Willingness to travel approximately 20%, including trips up to one week at a time

Compensation and Total Rewards:

• $62,400 - $87,000 annual salary range

• Bonus potential up to 20% of salary

• Compensation and bonus are commensurate with experience, performance and/or firm profitability

• Check out our Total Rewards at Baird, which is a summary of our benefits and compensation

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Baird is committed to diversity and provides employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, citizenship, national origin, age, disability, military service, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, or any other status protected by law.