The Conference & Event Contract Manager is an important contributor to both the Corporate Events and Conference Services teams, two branches of three that comprise our firm’s central source for planning and executing meetings, conferences and events which allow Baird to leverage buying power, achieve business results and deliver a consistent, brand-certified experience. The Conference & Event Contract Manager is responsible for managing and partnering with event professionals on contracts related to corporate meetings and events and is a key liaison between Baird Legal, Risk and Compliance.

This position is unique as it works cross-functionally with multiple branches of the firm’s planning teams and departments such as Legal. The ideal candidate needs to be able to manage a large volume of competing priority contract reviews and be able to advocate for the business needs to make the event/conference successful, while coordinating review and input from Legal and Risk to protect the firm.

As the Contract Manager, you may:

• Effectively communicate and be an intermediary between external vendors and key internal Baird associates in Corporate Events, Conference Services, Legal, Risk and Compliance throughout the contract lifecycle to ensure effective and protective contracts for Baird.
• Develop and utilize approved Baird contracting standards, policies and contractual clauses for all Baird event contracts in partnership with cross-functional departments (Corporate Events, Conference Services, Legal and Risk leadership, etc.) and ensure both program specific and standard business terms and conditions are accurate and protect Baird.
• Negotiate business terms so that contracts adhere to Baird contracting standards and meet business objectives in a timely manner while adjusting to changing circumstances as required.
• Review and redline business terms in contracts to ensure that Baird is adequately protected from risks by relying upon your skills to assess the impact of deviations from Baird contracting standards and engage internal stakeholders and leadership when required.
• Manage contract lifecycle management (CLM) platform technology relationships, accounts, training sessions and implementation; operate daily out of the tool.
• Take the initiative to stay up-to-date on industry trends and share knowledge with Corporate Events, Conference Services, Legal, Risk and Compliance colleagues as applicable.
• Assist with any special projects throughout the year as assigned, including destination and competitive research as requested.

What we look for:

• 5-7+ years of experience reviewing and negotiating business terms for event & meeting contracts.
• Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality, Marketing, Business or Communications preferred.
• Paralegal certification a plus.
• Proven ability to successfully work cross-functionally supporting multiple teams and develop/maintain relationships with clients, colleagues and industry contacts.
• Advanced destination and hotel property knowledge preferred with demonstrated willingness to continually enhance industry knowledge.
• Independent self-starter with ability to tolerate peak workloads, multiple assignments with accuracy and reliability, troubleshoot problems, communicate regular updates with internal clients/stakeholders and external partners and vendors and coordinate deadlines in a cross-functional role with dotted line management.
• Excellent interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills.
• Exceptional technology skills including the Microsoft Office Suite/MS Teams and the ability to learn technology (such as a Contract Lifecycle Management tool and event technology like Cvent) quickly.
• Available to work long hours into evenings and occasional weekends during peak work demands. Ability to lift up to 20 pounds. Travel may intermittently be required, typically no more than 5-10% of time but can be higher in peak work volumes.

#LI-AK1

Commitment to Inclusion & Diversity

Baird is committed to inclusion & diversity for our clients, our associates and the communities where we live and work. This commitment stems from our culture of integrity, genuine concern for others and respect for the individual. We view inclusion & diversity as an ongoing journey - one of shared responsibility, continuous improvement and a focus on progress. We invite you to join us as we work together to foster an environment where diversity unites rather than divides us.