Assistant Manager, Marketing & Events - Chicago

Job Summary

Many of the world’s largest organizations, including the world’s most successful and innovative investment firms, have turned to Simpson Thacher for smart solutions to critical commercial challenges. This is a high-impact opportunity to join the Client Development & Engagement (CDE) team in Chicago, supporting the planning and execution of high-quality and engaging events and experiences that strengthen relationships, showcase the Firm’s capabilities, and support strategic growth initiatives across the Chicago office and broader Firm platform.

The Assistant Manager, Marketing & Events – Chicago will play a key role in developing and executing strategic client engagement initiatives, managing sophisticated events, and partnering with attorneys and CDE to advance the Firm’s client development objectives. The ideal candidate is proactive, highly organized, solutions-oriented, and thrives in a fast-paced, client-focused environment.

Responsibilities

Events Planning & Execution

• Lead the planning and execution of in-person and virtual events from concept through completion, including post-event follow-up, analysis and budget reconciliation.
• Independently manage all event logistics, including venue and vendor research, contract negotiations, invitation strategy, attendee experience, catering, staffing, AV requirements, transportation, on-site execution, etc.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for attorneys, vendors and internal stakeholders throughout the event lifecycle.
• Oversee the development and production of event materials including invitations, presentations, signage, nametags, handouts, promotional items and client gifts.
• Manage event budgets, track expenses, process invoices and ensure timely and accurate financial reconciliation.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with Chicago-area venues, restaurants, caterers, hotels, and event service providers to maximize value and enhance client experiences.
• Stay informed of market trends, emerging event formats, new venue opportunities and best practices to continuously elevate the Firm’s programming.
• Establish and maintain event standards, protocols and service expectations that reflect the Firm’s commitment to excellence, professionalism and exceptional client service.
• Build effective working relationships with attorneys, administrative leaders and colleagues across departments to ensure seamless execution of programs and initiatives.
• Manage multiple concurrent projects and competing priorities while maintaining exceptional attention to detail and client service.

Client Development Support

• Collaborate with attorneys and CDE colleagues to identify and execute strategic client engagement opportunities.
• Draft, edit and proofread event communications, presentations, marketing materials, and other client-facing content, ensuring consistency with Firm standards.
• Maintain the integrity of the Firm’s CRM system by ensuring timely and accurate capture of event attendance, relationship information and engagement activity.
• Support cross-functional client development projects and strategic initiatives across practices, industries and offices.

Innovation & Continuous Improvement

• Identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency, enhance attendee experience and strengthen event effectiveness.
• Evaluate and leverage new technology, event platforms and industry best practices to optimize planning, execution and reporting.
• Actively utilize AI tools and technologies to drive efficiency, generate insights, enhance client engagement, and support innovation across the role.
• Monitor and analyze attendee data, event outcomes, stakeholder feedback and engagement metrics to recommend enhancements and measure ROI.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor’s degree

Preferred

• Major in Advertising, Marketing, Communications, Event Management, or related field

Skills & Experience

Required

• 5-6+ years of relevant events or Client Development experience
• Demonstrated experience managing sophisticated client-facing events and stakeholder relationships.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Excellent planning, time management, and organizational skills.
• Strong project management skills and ability to manage multiple events and projects concurrently.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to make sound decisions and escalate as appropriate.
• Ability to build professional relationships with vendors, partners, and clients while maintaining diplomacy and discretion.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively within a team-oriented environment.
• Strong attention to detail and self-motivated to produce accurate, timely, and complete work product.
• Must be flexible and willing to work additional hours and travel to event locations as needed.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Adobe Suite and event technology tools.

Preferred

• Prior experience in a law firm, professional services, or financial services environment strongly preferred
• Chicago market venue and vendor relationships a plus
• Demonstrated experience using a CRM system
• Familiarity with event management technology and platforms

Salary Information

IL Only: The estimated base salary range for this position is $130,000 to $155,000 at the time of posting.

The actual salary offered will depend on a variety of factors, including without limitation, the qualifications of the individual applicant for the position, years of relevant experience, level of education attained, certifications or other professional licenses held, and if applicable, the location in which the applicant lives and/or from which they will be performing the job. This role is exempt meaning it is not overtime pay eligible.