EY seeks a dedicated GDS Meetings and Events Program Manager to lead and optimize M&E program activities globally. This role is central to overseeing event-related expenditures and ensuring seamless program execution across all GDS locations. You will serve as the primary liaison for GDS stakeholders, addressing program management needs, operational requirements, reporting, supplier performance, and driving process enhancements for the global M&E initiative.

This position involves close collaboration with M&E colleagues, external vendors, internal business units, procurement, and finance teams. The goal is to champion M&E policies, enhance compliance, elevate stakeholder experiences, and identify cost-saving opportunities. We expect the successful candidate to operate autonomously, influence stakeholders across various levels and geographies, and contribute significantly to EY’s broader Travel, Meetings & Events program objectives.

Key responsibilities include acting as the main point of contact for M&E program management, operational queries, and policy guidance for GDS stakeholders. You will support senior leaders by providing expertise on Meetings & Events matters, ensuring alignment with global program objectives and promoting the program's values and strategy. This role requires influencing change and supporting the implementation of the Global M&E strategy across GDS locations.

Furthermore, you will oversee venue sourcing, event planning, and supplier engagement, acting as the escalation point for supplier-related issues and maintaining strong vendor relationships. Support will be provided for M&E RFPs, vendor onboarding, and renewals. A crucial aspect involves promoting and ensuring compliance with EY's Meetings & Events policies, corporate meeting policies, and procurement procedures, including adherence to standardized contracts.

Financial management is essential, involving budget preparation, cost management, and driving cost efficiencies through supplier negotiations. You will review data, identify savings opportunities, and present insights to stakeholders. Performance monitoring through key metrics for program effectiveness and operational efficiency is also a key duty. The role also encompasses leading process improvement initiatives, harmonizing processes with global teams, identifying best practices, and supporting the use of M&E tools like Cvent.

Ideal candidates will possess 5–8 years of corporate experience in managing Meetings & Events programs or holding a senior role in the travel, hospitality, or event planning industries. Experience with large, complex events in a multinational or cross-cultural setting is highly advantageous. Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel and PowerPoint, is mandatory. Familiarity with Cvent, intake tools, data reporting, Power BI, Power Platform, or Ariba is a significant plus.

Fluency in written and spoken English is required. While a degree in Business, Hospitality, Travel, Procurement, or a related field is preferred, it is not mandatory. The role demands strong organizational skills, the ability to prioritize effectively, commercial awareness, attention to detail, and composure under pressure.

Due to EY's global operations, flexibility in working hours across multiple time zones is expected. A stable home internet connection is necessary for remote collaboration, with potential requirements to work from the EY GDS office in India based on local policies. International travel may be required, necessitating a valid passport.