Senior Events Manager – Conferences and Incentives – Remote

Senior Events Manager – Conferences and Incentives – Remote

Embark on the next step in your career journey with Creative Group!  

The Senior Program Manager (SPM) will manage high-level, complex programs and other programs as assigned. For assigned client accounts, the SPM is responsible for program planning, program execution, building client relationships, leading the clients, managing client financials, and Creative Group cash flow, engaging suppliers with client priorities, and bringing creative solutions to our clients.  

If you live within a 50 mile radius of Toronto, this can be a hybrid role.

Expedition Expectations    

Client  

• Functions as the main client contact and works diligently to develop a strong relationship with the client 
• Identifies and understands client interests, issues, expectations and priorities, and identifies potential opportunities 
• Consults with client to determine goals, needs, objectives, expectations, and budget of the program 
• Remains current and knowledgeable about the industry in order to provide the client with creative and compelling concepts
• Understands client/group idiosyncrasies and adapts Creative Group services accordingly; in the case a client’s request does not fit in the company’s service offerings, consults with the Account Executive 
• Schedules and facilitates client planning and debrief meetings in order to evaluate program results
• Is accountable for successful program outcome

Program Operations:  

• Collaborates with appropriate team members in a file transfer meeting from Sales/Product to Operations 
• Provides overall strategy and choreography of meetings and events 
• Initiates, plans and travels for site inspections 
• Negotiates and manages supplier contracts, including deposits, attrition, concessions, guarantees, and master accounts 
• 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 suppliers. 
• Communicates and approves all program specifications, event orders, and program details
• Oversees design, marketing concepts and promotional campaigns, copywriting, and budget specific to the program 
• Sends appropriate post-program correspondence to all stakeholders

Financial Management and Insights:  

• Manages program budget, cost-savings, billing and invoicing 
• Identify opportunities for additional profit on each assigned program 
• Reconciles all final billing

Leadership  

• Provides confident leadership for the client, planning team, and company through all actions and to be able to successfully execute programs 
• Leverages experience and creative thinking to identify opportunities for increased process efficiency 
• Models leadership behavior within team
• Communicates and confirms program specifications to internal and external parties 
• Shares strategies and best practices with colleagues to identify cost and time efficiencies 
• Supports quality control efforts within the team 
• Seeks opportunities for growth and development for self and others 
• Peer mentors Program Specialists 
• Identify and implement best practices and standard operating procedures for job function, in alignment with Creative Group business process
• Provide daily mentorship within team, lead, guide and consult internal and external customers with a fact-based, solution focused approach 
• Lead Team Projects and Initiatives, as directed by Director, CX&I 
• Establishes, communicates, and monitors all timelines and budget parameters 
• Works with all internal departments (as applicable per program) for the successful execution of the program 
• Is responsible for on-site program execution and direction of travel staff. Implements contingency plans as needed onsite. 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 
• Perform other duties as assigned

Working Conditions  

• Ability and willingness to work extended workdays and possible weekends
• Accessible during acceptable working hours identified per project/program
• Travel expectations – potential of 40% or more of time annually . Must be able to travel to any country
• Frequent use of a computer and other office equipment
• Ability to lift 75 lbs.
• Frequent sitting, standing, and walking

Passport to Success  

• Bachelor's Degree in Business, Hospitality, Event Planning or a combination of education and work and experience is required
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in the Hospitality and/or group/individual performance industry
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office products, especially Excel
• Certification in Meeting Planner (CMP) and / or Certified Incentive Travel Professional (CITP) is a plus
• Bilingual in French/ English is an asset. 

Going the Extra Mile  

• Must be able to behave in a manner that reflects our organization’s Vision and Core Beliefs
• Possess excellent interpersonal skills to be able to provide superior customer service and client consultation from the spirit to serve others; be able to work cross-functionally and develop strong and positive internal and external relationships
• Possess excellent organizational and project management skills, ability to prioritize, detail orientation, and the ability to manage multiple customers and projects simultaneously are necessary for success in this position
• Possess excellent verbal and written communication skills and be an active listening to be the main client contact
• Possess proven leadership skills in order to quarterback the team and mentor other roles
• Must be able to actively listen, have the capability to instill confidence in clients and colleagues and present information with confidence
• Must be professional in behavior with clients, suppliers, and co-workers
• Exhibit strategic and critical thinking by gathering and analyzing information to skillfully conceptualize solutions that go beyond the obvious paths and that meet the 6 Is concept
• Must model a positive, solution-based approach and be flexible and open to change.
• Be able to work autonomously, while thriving in a team environment
• Be able to maintain confidentiality

Benefits Onboard  

In addition to Medical, Dental, and Vision benefits Direct Travel offers an employee rewards and recognitions program, Total Rewards Package which includes Wellness, Sustainability, DE&I initiatives, and Mental Health Support.  

Our Brand Voyage:  

About Direct Travel and Creative Group  

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.    

Direct Travel is a leading provider of corporate travel management services. By leveraging both the expertise of its people and innovative solutions, Direct Travel enables clients to derive the greatest value from their travel program in terms of superior service, progressive technologies, and significant cost savings. The company is led by CEO Christal Bemont and Executive Chairman Steve Singh, noted business investor and founder of Concur. Direct Travel has offices in over 80 locations and is currently ranked among the top providers of travel on Travel Weekly’s Power List. For more information, visit www.dt.com.

Direct Travel is an EOE/AA/Veteran/People with Disabilities employer  

If you're ready to chart a new course and advance your career with the valuable moments and travel experiences that await, we welcome you to submit your resume for consideration at Direct Travel.