Sourcing Manager

Responsibilities

• Lead execution of venue sourcing efforts for low to medium complexity client meetings and events with a focus on client satisfaction and achievement of client strategic business objectives
• Strategic Advisor for project venue selection and sourcing: Serve as “strategic business ally” for client, including defining meeting objective, understanding strategic business goals
• Incorporate client strategic business goals into sourcing processes to deliver significant client value
• Ownership of sourcing strategy execution: Leverage Cvent and other venue sourcing tools to source proposals from venues through RFP processes
• Conduct site inspections per client requests and Operations Manager and pending Senior Director, U.S. Operations approval
• Negotiate with venues to drive value and client strategic business objectives
• Facilitate venue contracting process in accordance with standards and client interests and practices
• Facilitate seamless hand-off to designated Meeting Planner for program to ensure knowledge transfer of client strategic business objectives and venue considerations
• Ensure accurate data input and project record keeping
• Manages day to day maintenance of client budget from venues to provide accurate understanding of venue expenses for each project
• Provide inputs at the direction of U.S. Operations and Global Financial Operations to facilitate financial close of project
• Ensure project-level inputs in Cvent platform and other key internal systems used by are accurate and are to the specifications of U.S. Operations and Global Business Intelligence Leadership
• Continuously educate self and teammates on key trends in venues, sourcing practices, and client service
• Participate in vendor-supported education opportunities to enhance destination knowledge and build institutional knowledge at approval of Operations Manager and Senior Director, U.S. Operations. Examples include familiarization trips, educational seminars and/or receptions.
• Remain up-to-date on supplier relations contracts managed by the Global Sales Administration team
• Serves as source of knowledge in venue identification, contract negotiation, and other areas of sourcing as needed
• Support development of positive team culture
• Incite enthusiasm and influence, motivate and persuade teammates to achieve desired outcomes and overall business goals

Qualifications

Education and Experience: No less than 3 years of related experience in the meeting and events industry with sourcing focus Associate’s Degree or equivalent work experience

Skills

• Strategic Project Management and Execution Competencies:
  • Detailed understanding of meeting and incentive planning with focus on sourcing
  • Ability to incorporate client strategic business goals throughout sourcing process
  • Proven ability to work on multiple tasks and prioritize effectively while managing multiple projects
  • Keen attention to detail and ability to work well under pressure
• Interpersonal Competencies:
  • Ability to engage with key client stakeholders and C-level executives with high level of professionalism and focus on client strategic business goals
  • Strong negotiation skills and ability to maintain strong, collaborative relationships with clients, vendors and internal team members
  • Work independently as well as collaboratively within a team environment
  • Enthusiasm for developing others to improve performance
• Technical Skills:
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and Teams [Preferred]
  • Competency in leveraging Cvent for sourcing (e.g., RFPs, contract negotiations, etc.)

Benefits