US UNGA Side Event Planner – Implementor

Ubongo

Event planner and implementor for Ubongo's showcase at the UNGA High-Level Week. Design, coordinate, and execute the event to elevate Ubongo's global profile and networking opportunities.

Posted 6/11/2026contractRemote • New York • 🇺🇸 United StatesMid-LevelSeniorWebsite

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Work with Ubongo's leadership to define the event concept, theme, narrative arc, and desired outcomes
Develop a detailed event brief including format, audience, programme, and engagement strategy
Advise on optimal event format (panel discussion, cocktail reception, hybrid event, roundtable, etc.) and venue options
Develop a stakeholder mapping and invitee target list in alignment with Ubongo's strategic priorities
Research and recommend co-hosting or co-sponsorship opportunities with UN agencies, foundations, or partner organisations
Identify and secure an appropriate event venue in New York City (options including UN-affiliated venues, foundation spaces, hotels, and cultural venues)
Negotiate and manage all venue contracts, catering, AV, and technical requirements
Coordinate all event logistics: seating, signage, branded materials, registration, and onsite coordination
Arrange necessary permits, insurance, and compliance requirements for New York City events
Coordinate travel and accommodation logistics for Ubongo representatives and VIP speakers (in coordination with Ubongo's operations team)
Develop a compelling programme agenda in close collaboration with Ubongo's content and communications teams
Identify, approach, and confirm high-profile speakers, moderators, and panellists aligned with the event theme
Manage speaker briefings, travel coordination, and preparation support
Develop speaker briefing packs and talking points in alignment with Ubongo's messaging
Coordinate with Ubongo's creative team on multimedia elements (sizzle reel, impact video, live demonstrations)
Develop and manage a targeted invitation strategy for 200+ prospects to yield 80–150 attendees
Design and distribute digital invitations through appropriate channels
Manage RSVPs, waitlists, and attendee communications
Coordinate credentialing and access for UN-adjacent venues where applicable
Develop and implement a VIP engagement plan for high-priority attendees
Provide full onsite event management throughout the event day(s)
Manage all vendor, staff, and volunteer coordination on the day
Ensure seamless AV, production, and live-streaming/recording (if applicable)
Manage real-time troubleshooting and contingency responses
Capture high-quality photography and/or video during the event
Provide a post-event report including attendance data, key outcomes, media coverage, and lessons learned
Deliver all event photography, video footage, and multimedia assets to Ubongo
Support follow-up communications to attendees as directed by Ubongo
Produce an end-of-engagement financial report against the approved budget

Requirements

What you’ll need

Minimum 5 years of experience planning and executing high-profile events in New York City
Demonstrated experience with UNGA-adjacent, UN-affiliated, or international development sector events during UNGA High-Level Week
Strong existing relationships with New York event venues, vendors, and logistics providers
Proven ability to manage multi-stakeholder events with senior government, multilateral, and philanthropic audiences
US-based presence (or clear ability to operate in New York for the event period)
Highly Desirable: Experience working with African organisations, NGOs, or development sector clients in international settings
Familiarity with UN credentialing processes and venue access requirements
Existing relationships with UNGA-week co-hosts such as foundations, think tanks, or UN agencies
Experience with hybrid or live-streamed event production
Connections with relevant New York-based media and communications contacts

Benefits

Comp & perks

Ubongo is an equal opportunity employer and procurer
We actively welcome proposals from women-led firms, African-owned enterprises, and organisations with demonstrated commitment to diversity and inclusion.

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Hard Skills & Tools

event planningevent executionvenue negotiationlogistics coordinationstakeholder mappingprogram developmentmultimedia coordinationbudget managementRSVP managementevent reporting

Soft Skills

communicationnegotiationrelationship managementproblem-solvingteam collaborationstrategic thinkingattention to detailtime managementadaptabilityleadership