Senior Events Manager

THE POSITION

Fast Forward is looking for a Senior Events Manager, a seasoned events professional who can bring people together through exceptional experiences. This role will lead the planning and execution of Fast Forward’s in-person events, including our Accelerator Demo Days, our Alumni Retreat, and other multi-day conferences. As a member of the Programs team, this role will also support smaller-scale events, virtual programs, or other special projects as needed.

You will own every aspect of events — from contracting and vendor management to content planning, speaker prep, and on-site production. This role is perfect for a logistics mastermind who thrives on details, collaboration, and creating environments where attendees feel inspired and connected. Ideal candidates can move seamlessly between managing vendors, building run-of-show timelines, shaping event content, coordinating with venues, prepping speakers, and managing the smallest details to flawless execution.

This is a full-time, in-office role based in the Presidio in San Francisco, CA (no remote or hybrid options).

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

Event Planning & Production

• Lead end-to-end planning and execution of Fast Forward’s flagship events (Demo Day, our Alumni Retreat, and partner conferences) and support smaller scale events like dinners and funder meetings
• Own venue sourcing, contracting, budgeting, and all vendor relationships (catering, A/V, décor, photography & videography, hotel blocks, etc.)
• Develop and maintain detailed project plans, budgets, production schedules, run-of-show documents, scripts, and staffing plans
• Manage all attendee event logistics & communications including registration, email invites & reminders, travel coordination, post-event follow-up, etc.
• Ensure all events reflect Fast Forward’s values, accessibility standards, and community-centered approach

Program Development & Relationship Management

• Partner with internal and external speakers to develop compelling event content, agendas, and storytelling moments
• Lead speaker prep, including briefing, coaching, rehearsals, and managing materials
• Collaborate with Marketing to align messaging, event campaigns, and on-site brand experience.
• Build strong relationships with nonprofit leaders, funders, and partners to ensure seamless coordination and high-quality experiences.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for key event stakeholders, providing clarity, communication, and calm leadership throughout planning.

WHO WE'RE LOOKING FOR

• 4–7+ years of professional experience in event planning, production, or event operations (nonprofit or fundraising event experience strongly preferred)
• Demonstrated success owning large-scale events from concept to execution, including content development and speaker prep
• Exceptional project management skills — you love a good spreadsheet, clear timelines, and tight checklists
• Strong relationship-builder who communicates clearly, calmly, and with empathy
• Detail-oriented operator who takes ownership, follows through, and consistently delivers high-quality results
• Mission-driven mindset with deep alignment with Fast Forward’s values and a belief in tech as a force for good

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

• Unlimited paid time off (PTO)
• 401k retirement plan & employer matching
• Office is located in a beautiful national park - The Presidio - with free transit to/from downtown San Francisco!
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Most importantly, input on the office snack order

COMPENSATION

Salary: $120,000 - $135,000 - negotiable depending on experience.