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Express Desk Program Lead CEE (E5866)
IEEEPiscataway, United Statesfull_timeVerifiedPosted 3 Dec 2024
About the role
Express Desk Program Lead CEE (E5866) - 240303: KNW-B30
This role will lead CEE's Express Desk initiative. The incumbent will work to consistently deliver exceptional service to our clients through project management and creative solutions. The role reports to the Senior Manager, Event Vendor Management & Contracting, has a dotted line reporting structure to the Sr. Director of CEE, and does not manage direct reports. This position works under minimal supervision.
Key Responsibilities
Description
Job SummaryThis role will lead CEE's Express Desk initiative. The incumbent will work to consistently deliver exceptional service to our clients through project management and creative solutions. The role reports to the Senior Manager, Event Vendor Management & Contracting, has a dotted line reporting structure to the Sr. Director of CEE, and does not manage direct reports. This position works under minimal supervision.
Key Responsibilities
- Works with CEE colleagues to establish process and service level agreements for newly created service
- Oversee multiple venue sourcing projects simultaneously for small and large scale events and has comprehensive understanding of appropriate hotel categories and aesthetics for each unique assignment
- Develops a complete understanding of CEE strategic initiatives related to but not limited to: Preferred Partners, Cities we love, Expense Management and Event Emergency Management
- Lead RFP process to find optimal on-brand venue options for multiple events
- Create thorough RFPs for multi-city venue searches. Use strong client communication skills in understanding business needs and where flexibility can be exercised while still supporting Event objectives
- Review venue contracts and client addendums for accuracy and negotiate where applicable
- Quality control venue proposals to ensure venues/meeting space are viable for Event needs; think creatively to find solutions, and propose recommendations to meet business needs
- Maximize cost reduction strategies and negotiate pricing and concessions best suited for Event needs
- Consults with other CEE or assigned IEEE staff as appropriate for account coverage
- May be assigned by Senior Director CEE to organize site inspection
- Venue selection, negotiation, and contract management processes
- Works as part of extended event team and regularly communicates with and gets feedback from CRMs, Planners, etc. Collaborates with planners for proper hand off of event once sourcing/contract phase concludes. Easily handles or hands off soft concierge level requests as needed. (e.g., ground transportation). Grows expertise in adjacent areas over time.
- Create and closely monitor value adds at every opportunity and demonstrate commercial awareness, especially relating to contract negotiations
- Share knowledge of best practices on sourcing, negotiating and venues
- Additional ad hoc project support/planning as assigned; support event planning team as needed during slower period
- May work directly with other senior managers and staff in CEE
- Act as an ambassador for CEE, leading by example and displaying the company's core values
Qualifications
Education- Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience Bachelor's Degree required Req
- 4-7 years 4 – 7 years' similar event-related experience with a strong focus on venue sourcing Req
- Strong knowledge of venues and hotels in key US cities
- Advanced negotiating, risk management and contracting skills
- Motivated, self-starter, ability to work both independently and collaboratively; creative problem solver resourceful, team player
- Extensive experience with industry sourcing tools, Cvent a plus
- Excellent project management skills with the ability to manage multiple projects concurrently; proven ability to work well under pressure to meet established deadlines
- Influencing, negotiation and decision-making skills
- Resourceful individual with the ability to take direction and also work independently; be proactive with ideas and creative solutions, all with a positive attitude
- Customer focus, approachable; ability to adjust to c
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