Specialist, Hospitality and Events

Please Note: This role requires the ability to work on site 5 days per week. The annual salary range for this role is $90,000-105,000 in New York. The World Economic Forum, committed to improving the state of the world, is the international organization for public-private cooperation. The Forum engages the foremost political, business and other leaders of society to shape global, regional and industry agendas. Role Summary This role sits at the intersection of operations, hospitality, and events, ensuring the seamless execution of engagements that advance the Forum’s mission of improving the state of the world. The Specialist plays a critical role in shaping the New York Office as a hub for collaboration, dialogue, and community, delivering best-in-class experiences for partners, members, and colleagues. Reporting Lines & Interactions Reporting to the NY Office Operations Manager. Interaction with internal staff, external participants, and suppliers and building staff. Key Responsibilities Event & Convening Excellence • Support the end-to-end design and delivery of Forum convenings, including high-level meetings, partner engagements, and institutional events • Support the full event lifecycle, from concept development and planning through execution and post-event evaluation • Support translating strategic objectives into impactful event formats that foster dialogue, collaboration, and outcomes • Partner closely with Global Programming Team, Centers, and government affairs teams to ensure alignment with institutional priorities • Provide expert guidance to internal stakeholders on event feasibility, production, and delivery in the NY Office • Drive continuous improvement by establishing best practices, standards, and playbooks for event execution Hospitality & Stakeholder Experience • Champion a world-class hospitality experience, positioning the NY Office as a trusted and welcoming environment for global leaders • Design and deliver inclusive, high-quality experiences that reflect the Forum’s values and brand • Support all aspects of guest experience, including reception flows, catering, space design, and service delivery Operational Leadership & Vendor Management • Support planning and coordination of office operations, events calendar, and resource allocation • Collaborate with office management on forecasting of office cost centers and budgets • Support procurement, vendor selection, and contract negotiations in alignment with Forum policies and compliance frameworks • Strengthen internal systems, tools, and communications ) to enhance clarity on hospitality and event processes • Build and manage strategic relationships with vendors, suppliers, and service providers, including negotiation support Global Event Logistics & Travel Coordination • Support coordination of travel and logistics for US staff participating in Forum meetings and summits globally, in collaboration with global programming and travel agency. • Support delivery of off-site and international events across Forum offices Preferred Qualifications & Experience • Bachelor’s degree in hotel management, hospitality, travel/tourism or related field • High level of adaptability in a continually evolving international environment • 3+ years of experience in event management, hospitality, operations, or related fields • Proven track record of delivering complex, high-level events and stakeholder engagements • Experience working in international, matrixed organizations with cross-functional collaboration • Experience with budgeting, procurement, and contract management • Advanced Proficiency in systems and software, such as Microsoft Office/Excel, CRM’s, procurement tools, and driving efficiencies accordingly. Why work at the Forum: The Forum believes that progress happens by bringing together people from all walks of life who have the drive and the influence to improve the state of the world by building awareness and cooperation, shaping mindsets and agendas, and driving collective action. Join us and become a driver for positive change!