Events Program Manager

This position can be remote or hybrid with 2 days in office if local to Schaumburg, IL or Appleton, WI.

Responsibilities

• Functions as the main client contact and works diligently to develop a strong relationship; manages clients.
• Offers client dynamic experiences using the i|xperience™ methodology, working in conjunction with Marketing; leads client by providing workable and creative solutions.
• Consults with client to determine goals, needs, objectives, and expectations of the program.
• Remains current and knowledgeable about the industry to provide the client with creative and compelling concepts.
• Understands client/group idiosyncrasies and adapts Creative Group services accordingly; in cases where a client’s request does not fit the company’s service offerings, consults with the Design & Innovations and/or the Account Executive.
• Schedules and facilitates client planning and debrief meetings to evaluate program results.
• Is accountable for successful program outcome.
• Collaborates with appropriate team members in internal kick-off, following program turnover from pre-sales to operations.
• Executes overall strategy and choreography of meetings and events.
• Leads clients and other team members on operational site inspections.
• Negotiates and manages supplier contracts, including deposits, attrition, concessions, guarantees, room blocks, and master accounts in conjunction with internal team members.
• Manages and works with hotel and supplier staff to exceed customer expectations. Provides best pricing, options, and program objectives. Maintains logistical accountability of meetings. Acts as liaison between customer, hotel, and all suppliers.
• Creates and communicates all program specifications and program details and approves event orders.
• Oversees design, marketing concepts and promotional campaigns, copywriting, and budget specific to the program in conjunction with the Project Manager.
• Sends appropriate post-program correspondence to all stakeholders.
• Manages client budget with a focus on client cost savings while maximizing revenue opportunities.
• Understands and monitors estimated labor hours for team to maximize profit.
• Manages cost-savings, reconciliation, and invoicing.
• Provides confident leadership for the client, planning team, and company through all actions to successfully execute programs.
• Establishes, communicates, and monitors all timelines and budget parameters.
• Mentors Project Managers on an ongoing basis.
• Works with all internal departments (as applicable per program) for the successful execution of the program, such as: Travel Services, Creative Services, Technology Services, Registration Services, Merchandise, and Finance.
• Is responsible for on-site program execution and direction of travel staff. Implements contingency plans as needed.
• Troubleshoots and solves onsite problems seamlessly.
• Is responsible for identifying and sharing best practices and process improvements company-wide.
• Gathers, shares, and applies learnings for continuous process improvement.
• Can adapt and work successfully with any client, partner, and program.
• Seeks feedback, absorbs, and acts in the spirit of continuous personal development.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in Business, Hospitality, Event Planning or a combination of education and work experience is required.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in the Hospitality and/or group/individual performance industry, with at least 3 years of meeting planning experience.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Knowledgeable in Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, One Drive, Zoom and other collaboration tools.
• Certification in Meeting Planner (CMP) is a plus.

Working Conditions

• Ability and willingness to work extended workdays and possible weekends.
• Accessible during acceptable working hours identified per project/program.
• Travel may be required to oversee projects through execution.
• Frequent use of a computer and other office equipment.
• Ability to lift 20 lbs.
• Frequent sitting, standing, and walking.
• Ability to adhere to hybrid office policy.

Benefits

In addition to Medical, Dental, and Vision benefits, Direct Travel/ATPI offers a Total Rewards Package including Retirement Plans, Wellness, Recognition, Sustainability, DE&I, and Mental Health support.

About the Company

A subsidiary of Direct Travel, Creative Group designs global programs and experiences that reward excellence and inspire people to reach their full potential – we call it Thrivability. Creative Group is a full-service performance improvement company specializing in meetings and events, group incentive travel, employee engagement and recognition, sales incentives and channel loyalty programs. Creative Group serves a client roster of Fortune 500 companies in a broad range of industries.