Events Specialist

Overview

The External Affairs Events department at MD Anderson Cancer Center brings the institution’s mission to life through meaningful experiences that inspire hope, celebrate progress, and strengthen community. From signature fundraising events to patient‑centered programs and institutional milestones, the team designs and delivers moments that honor survivors, support families, and advance MD Anderson’s commitment to ending cancer. With creativity, compassion, and precision, they transform every event into an opportunity to connect people with purpose.

The External Affairs Events Specialist supports the planning, coordination, and execution of institutional and philanthropic events that advance MD Anderson’s mission and strategic priorities. Working under the direction of the Director, EA Events—and in close collaboration with team members—this role manages small- to mid‑scale events and provides tactical, logistical, and operational support for high‑profile engagements. The Specialist partners with colleagues across External Affairs, Institutional Affairs, Philanthropy, and other internal departments to ensure all events reflect MD Anderson’s values, culture, and commitment to excellence.

The ideal candidate will be local to the Houston metro area and comfortable traveling across the U.S. at least 50% of the time. They will hold a bachelor’s degree or higher and bring experience in large‑scale or corporate event planning. The candidate will have a strong background in managing or coordinating volunteers and will be adept at engaging with high‑profile or high‑net‑worth individuals.

Experience with budget management is also preferred.

Additional onsite attendance may be required as needed for meetings and business needs.

At MD Anderson, we offer careers built on care, growth, and balance. Our employees enjoy a benefits package designed to support every stage of life, starting on day one.

• Paid employee medical benefits (zero premium) starting on first day for employees who work 30 or more hours per week
• Group Dental, Vision, Life, AD&D and Disability coverage
• Paid time off (PTO) and Extended Illness Bank (EIB) paid leave accruals
• Paid institutional holidays, wellness leave, childcare leave, and other paid leave programs
• Tuition Assistance Program after six months of service
• Teachers Retirement System defined-benefit pension plan and two voluntary retirement plans
• Employer paid life, AD&D and an illness‑related reduced salary pay program
• Extensive wellness, recognition, fitness, employee health programs and employee resource groups

• Assist in the development, implementation, and oversight of strategic institutional and philanthropic events.
• Manage logistics for assigned events, including venue selection, vendor coordination, budget support, and on‑site execution.
• Support the Director in executing high‑profile events by preparing materials, timelines, staffing plans, and coordinating on‑site operations.
• Maintain event documentation, timelines, checklists, and planning materials to ensure consistency and quality across the event portfolio.
• Collaborate with the Administrative Director and IA Finance to track event budgets and ensure fiscal responsibility.
• Implement event standards, protocols, and best practices while contributing to continuous improvement and innovation.
• Use event technology, software, and planning tools to streamline operations, reporting, and execution.
• Participate in post‑event evaluations and provide recommendations to inform future planning.
• Independently manage several medium‑sized events within the team’s broader portfolio.
• Ensure all events reflect MD Anderson’s mission, values, strategic goals, and high standards.

Additional duties as assigned.

• Contribute directly to a world‑renowned mission focused on eliminating cancer and advancing life‑saving impact.
• Be part of a values‑driven culture where compassion, integrity, and excellence guide everything we do.
• Collaborate with talented professionals across External Affairs, Institutional Affairs, and Philanthropy.
• Grow in a supportive environment that encourages learning, innovation, and continuous…