Senior Events Program Manager

Our client is seeking an experienced Senior Event Program Manager to independently and collaboratively lead the end-to-end planning and execution of impactful in-person events, trade shows, meetings, and conferences across various industries. This dynamic role requires a proven background in corporate event management, exceptional customer service skills, and the ability to foster meaningful client relationships.

The ideal candidate excels in a fast-paced, detail-oriented environment, demonstrating strong organizational and project management skills. They will be a trusted partner to clients and internal stakeholders, delivering events that drive business success and elevate the client experience.

***This is a contract position through the end of Dec 31st 2025 with a chance to extend or possibly convert to FTE**

Responsibilities

Event Lifecycle Management

• Plan, design, and execute events with comprehensive oversight of budgets, logistics, venues, timelines, and post-event evaluations.
• Coordinate all aspects of event logistics, including space allocation, A/V requirements, and food & beverage arrangements.
• Manage event deliverables: contracts, vendor coordination, speaker preparation, and calendar scheduling to ensure seamless execution.

Collaboration and Vendor Management

• Partner with brokers to ensure smooth event planning transitions.
• Liaise with external vendors such as hotels, destination management companies, and other providers to arrange event specifics.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with contractors, suppliers, and vendors to achieve execution excellence.

Event Planning and Communication

• Lead weekly or bi-monthly planning meetings, action item reviews, and client status updates.
• Provide clear, actionable post-meeting summaries and ensure timely deliverables across teams.
• Develop and communicate detailed planning roadmaps, timelines, and priorities while proactively addressing potential challenges.

Project Leadership

• Guide cross-functional teams to design and execute engaging, end-to-end event experiences, including program content, visual design, registration, and logistics.
• Create and manage project plans, timelines, and work-back schedules while maintaining accountability across all workstreams.
• Serve as the central source of truth for stakeholders, driving alignment and escalation when necessary.

Client Engagement and Relationship Building

• Partner with clients to integrate event strategies into broader business and marketing objectives.
• Establish trust with clients and stakeholders by consistently delivering on expectations, tracking action items, and ensuring clear communication.
• Provide regular updates on event progress, reinforcing transparency and partnership.

Requirements

Basic Requirements

• Experience: 7+ years of corporate event planning on a national scale, with a track record of managing large-scale events.
• Industry Knowledge: Strong understanding of hotel operations, event facilities, A/V systems, catering, and vendor management.
• Budget Management: Demonstrated experience managing event budgets and delivering projects on time and within budget.
• Communication Skills: Exceptional written and verbal communication abilities, with a professional demeanor in client-facing interactions.
• Project Management: Proficiency in tools such as Asana, Monday.com, Microsoft Project, or Smartsheet.
• Client Focus: Customer-service-oriented approach with a deep understanding of client needs and expectations.
• Flexibility: Adaptability to handle last-minute changes and shifting priorities with poise and efficiency.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality, Marketing, Business, Communications, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• Certifications such as CMP (Certified Meeting Planner), CMM (Certified Meeting Manager), or PMP (Project Management Professional).
• 2+ years of experience building event registration platforms like Cvent or Stova is highly desirable.

Travel Requirements

• Willingness to travel up to 15-20% annually for client and internal events.

Benefits

Compensation Range:

$60-$65/hr

** This pay range is Client-specific for the op