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60 Event manager jobs in Columbus, OH

5 of the Highest Paying Event Manager Jobs in 2026

The best Event Manager jobs can pay up to $89,500 per year.

Event managers plan, organize, and supervise events, such as business conferences, weddings, and festivals. They handle all the arrangements required to make the event run smoothly. Event managers determine what the client needs and expects; then they coordinate the preparations leading up to the event, including booking venues, scheduling transportation, and selecting the food and decorations. They may even need to hire staff for the event. Event managers may need to employ reliable waiters, entertaining DJs, and talented photographers. Event managers monitor payments and budget, and ensure the event meets all required safety regulations. Large-scale corporate gatherings require management, so the event manager often delegates and oversees planning tasks to focus on operating on-site the night of the occasion.

There are many ways to become an event manager. You may choose start with formal education programs and earn a bachelor’s degree in business management, hospitality, or related field. These degree programs provide the basics in strategic planning, hospitality best practices, and the handling of budgets and vendor contracts. Or you may jump into the career as an assistant event planner and work your way up to manager. Gain experience running different kinds events, from business conferences to concerts, to broaden your expertise. Sharpen your organizational skills and learn to negotiate with a variety of vendors to obtain fair pricing and quality service. Licensure is not required to work as an event manager, but some seek voluntary certification in their area.

High Paying Event Manager Jobs

List of the top 5 highest paying Event Manager positions in 2026, with salary ranges, according to ZipRecruiter.

  • Event Planning Manager

    Salary range: $54,000 - $89,500

    The majority of Event Planning Manager salaries across the United States currently range between $54,000 (25th percentile) and $89,500 (75th percentile) annually. This moderate range of salaries suggests pay in this role will be consistent, regardless skill level, location and years of experience, though some advancement is possible. Based on recent job posting activity on ZipRecruiter, the Event Planning Manager job market in the United States is not very active as few companies are currently hiring for this role. You can try exploring related titles to find jobs with more active opportunities.

  • Event Services Manager

    Salary range: $50,000 - $73,000

    An event services manager coordinates all the aspects of events at a facility, from food servers to the menu to entertainment. In this career, you may manage a variety of activities, including meetings and conferences. Your responsibilities include arranging catering at facilities that don’t offer these services, contracting vendors, and overseeing the entire production. Your duties also involve meeting with clients before the banquet to review costs and logistics to ensure everything runs smoothly. You can work with both informal and formal events.

  • Event Operations Manager

    Salary range: $48,500 - $70,500

    The majority of Event Operations Manager salaries across the United States currently range between $48,500 (25th percentile) and $70,500 (75th percentile) annually. This moderate range of salaries suggests pay in this role will be consistent, regardless skill level, location and years of experience, though some advancement is possible. Based on recent job posting activity on ZipRecruiter, the Event Operations Manager job market in the United States is not very active as few companies are currently hiring for this role. You can try exploring related titles to find jobs with more active opportunities.

  • Special Events Manager

    Salary range: $40,000 - $66,000

    A special events manager coordinates special events, like weddings and corporate events. Your responsibilities include helping clients plan every facet of an event, scheduling staff and third-party vendors to prepare for and work at the event, and managing logistical details such as venue capacity, parking, seating, and other relevant issues.

  • Executive Meeting Manager

    Salary range: $52,500 - $66,000

    The majority of Executive Meeting Manager salaries across the United States currently range between $52,500 (25th percentile) and $66,000 (75th percentile) annually. This moderate range of salaries suggests pay in this role will be consistent, regardless skill level, location and years of experience, though some advancement is possible. Based on recent job posting activity on ZipRecruiter, the Executive Meeting Manager job market in the United States is not very active as few companies are currently hiring for this role. You can try exploring related titles to find jobs with more active opportunities.

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