McDermott Will & Emery

Events Specialist

McDermott Will & Emery$79K — $115K *
Hospitality & Recreation
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree required
  • At least three (3) years of prior event planning experience
  • Proven ability to plan and execute high-end events
  • Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, Word)
  • Strong written, verbal communication, and interpersonal skills
  • Strong organizational and multitasking skills
  • Ability to travel and oversee event operations as needed

Responsibilities

  • Plan and coordinate small to mid-size firm-wide events
  • Manage all event logistics, including budget and vendor coordination
  • Ensure exceptional experience for stakeholders throughout the event process
  • Track event expenses to ensure adherence to financial guidelines
  • Lead event planning calls with internal teams
  • Prepare post-event analysis and reports with metrics and feedback
  • Interface with senior executives and VIPs, providing excellent customer service

Benefits

  • Competitive total rewards package
  • Opportunity for performance-based bonuses
  • Outstanding career opportunities
  • Comprehensive benefits package
  • Support for continuous improvement and dynamic work culture
Full Job Description

Job Description:

Position Summary:

The Events Specialist oversees the planning and execution of small to mid-size firm-wide client events and supports larger, more complex programs. This role manages the full event lifecycle—from venue sourcing and budget development to onsite coordination and ensures that each event delivers a high-quality experience for internal and external stakeholders. The Events Specialist also provides administrative and logistical support to the team as needed. This position works under minimal supervision and relies on experience, judgment, and organizational skills to accomplish goals.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities:

  • Plan and coordinate small to mid-size firm-wide events, including receptions, dinners, and short-format programs hosted in our offices, external venues, and hotels

  • Manage all event logistics, including venue sourcing, budget creation and oversight, vendor coordination, food and beverage selections, audiovisual needs, and creative/branding requirements; travel onsite for day-of execution as needed

  • Ensure all events are delivered at the highest standard and provide an exceptional experience for both internal and external stakeholders throughout the planning process and onsite

  • Track event expenses and ensure all events remain within established financial guidelines

  • Lead event planning calls with internal teams, serving as the project manager to keep stakeholders aligned and on schedule

  • Prepare post-event analysis and reports, including attendance metrics, feedback, and recommendations for improvement

  • Interface with senior executives and VIP attendees, providing excellent customer service and professional representation of the firm

  • Research and recommend event themes, venues, formats, and specifications, including the development of detailed event budgets

  • Proactively identify and solve problems independently, communicating recommendations to Partners and internal stakeholders

  • Assist Event Managers with large-scale or complex events, as well as administrative and operational tasks for the broader team

  • Demonstrate enthusiasm for a dynamic, fast-paced environment and contribute to a team culture that strives for continuous improvement

Job Specifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree

  • At least three (3) years of prior event planning experience

  • Proven ability to plan and execute high-end events

  • Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Word)

  • Strong written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills

  • Strong organizational and multitasking skills

  • Ability to work independently and under own direction and initiative

  • Ability to travel and oversee events operations as needed

  • This role requires non-local event travel 1-2 times per month and local (in-office or local restaurant) event travel 2-3 times per month.

Successful candidates will be provided with outstanding career opportunities and will receive a competitive total rewards package with the opportunity to earn performance-based bonuses.


     Target Hiring Range $79,000 - $115,000


Please note that quoted salary ranges are not guarantees of what final salary offers may be. Base pay is based on market location and may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and geographic location. Base pay is only one part of the Total Rewards that MWS provides to compensate and recognize our staff professionals for their work. Full time positions are eligible for a discretionary bonus and a comprehensive benefits package. 

Physical Demands and Work Environment:

The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Physical Demands:

  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to sit, use hands, reach with hands and arms, stoop, talk and hear

  • Employee must occasionally lift up to twenty (20) pounds

Work Environment:

Typical indoor office environment

Disclaimer:

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed by people within this classification. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of employees assigned to this job.

 

 

About McDermott Will & Emery

McDermott Will & Emery is a premier international law firm with a diversified business practice. Our lawyers represent a wide range of commercial, industrial and financial enterprises, both publically and privately held. McDermott has more than 1,100 lawyers located in 18 offices across the United States, Europe and Asia. Further extending our reach in Asia, we have a strategic alliance with MWE China Law Offices in Shanghai. McDermott partners with clients to accomplish their business objectives by providing superior counsel and service. The expansion of our international platform has supported numerous cross-border transactions and litigation matters, while providing the experience necessary to offer corporate, tax, labor and benefits, competition, intellectual property and regulatory counsel to clients across all industries. In the years to come, we will continue to expand geographically and enhance our existing practices and industry-focused strengths, and are committed to building from these strengths in order to best serve our clients and communities. McDermott has a long history of social responsibility and supporting the communities in which our people live and work. We believe it is our obligation to embrace our communities and promote their well being through pro bono work, community service, charitable giving, environmental stewardship and promoting diversity.

McDermott Will & Emery Careers

Joining McDermott Will & Emery presents an unparalleled opportunity to advance a career at a global leader in legal services. The firm is renowned for fostering professional growth and embracing innovation through a culture that values diversity and leadership.

Explore Job Opportunities

McDermott Will & Emery offers a variety of job opportunities that cater to a range of skills and professional interests. The firm seeks passionate, curious, and solution-driven team players ready to contribute to a dynamic team. From seasoned attorneys to support staff, McDermott Will & Emery is continuously hiring to enhance their service capabilities.

Internship Programs

Internships at McDermott Will & Emery provide a robust platform for early-career individuals to gain significant, hands-on experience in a highly professional environment. Interns are immersed in the culture of excellence, working closely with experienced professionals while engaging in real-world legal challenges.

Career Growth and Development

McDermott Will & Emery is committed to the professional development of its team members. The firm offers unmatched training, development programs, and leadership workshops to ensure career trajectories are not only met but exceeded. Employees are encouraged to leverage these opportunities for career advancement and personal growth.

Diversity and Inclusion

The firm holds a strong commitment to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. McDermott Will & Emery believes in empowering all employees through diversity training that enriches the professional environment and fosters a deeper understanding and respect among colleagues.

Benefits and Culture

McDermott Will & Emery prides itself on offering competitive benefits that reflect the firm’s appreciation for its team members. Benefits are designed to support the health, well-being, and financial security of all employees and their families. The firm's culture is built on a foundation of respect, integrity, and collaboration, making it a prime environment for professional fulfillment.

Networking and Innovation

Networking within McDermott Will & Emery is supported through various events, seminars, and collaborative projects that encourage connections and foster innovative thinking. Employees are encouraged to build networks that can support personal and professional growth.

Applying for a Position

To apply for a position at McDermott Will & Emery, candidates are encouraged to submit a resume and cover letter through the firm’s Careers page. The hiring process may include multiple stages of interviews to ensure a mutual fit both for the candidate and the company.

Stay Connected with McDermott Will & Emery Careers

Interested professionals can stay informed about new openings and company news by subscribing to job alert emails. These updates provide valuable insights into the firm and the legal industry, helping potential candidates find the right opportunities.

Join the Team

Search open positions that match your skills and interests at McDermott Will & Emery. Explore what it means to be part of a global leader in legal services and discover how your contributions can make a direct impact.

SEARCH MCDERMOTT WILL & EMERY JOBS

Read Careers Blog

Stay ahead with career tips, insider perspectives, and industry-leading insights you can put to use today—all from the professionals who work at McDermott Will & Emery.

READ CAREERS BLOG

Job Alert Emails

Personalize your subscription to receive job alerts, latest news, and insider tips tailored to your preferences. See what exciting and rewarding opportunities await at McDermott Will & Emery.
Learn more about McDermott Will & Emery

Similar Jobs

More Jobs at McDermott Will & Emery

More Hospitality & Recreation Jobs

Find similar Events Specialist jobs: