Program Manager

Chicago Is..., A Global DMC Partner; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A dynamic event production company seeks a passionate Program Manager responsible for overseeing the event lifecycle. Ideal candidates have a Bachelor's degree and 3–7 years of experience. This hybrid role involves significant client interaction and the management of event logistics to ensure memorable corporate experiences.

Benefits

Company-provided technology for remote work setup

Collaboration within a supportive team

Creative and individual expression valued

Qualifications

• 3-7 years of experience in corporate event production.
• Experience with DMCs is a plus.
• Ability to manage multiple projects under pressure.

Responsibilities

• Manage the full event lifecycle from proposal to execution.
• Serve as main point of contact for clients.
• Oversee on-site event operations and logistics.

Skills

Communication

Client Service

Multi-tasking

Budget Management

Event Production

Sustainability Practices

Education

Bachelor’s degree in events, hospitality, or DMC industry

Tools

Salesforce

Microsoft Office Suite

CVENT

QuickBooks

Job description

Direct message the job poster from Chicago Is..., A Global DMC Partner

We Create The Events Everyone Talks About.Event Production Agency from Coast to Coast.Midwest Destination Management Expert.

About Chicago Is…

For nearly 50 years, Chicago Is… has been the premier Destination Management Company in the city, crafting unforgettable experiences for corporate, association, and incentive clients. We offer a boutique, high-touch service model rooted in creativity, local expertise, and Midwest hospitality. From the skyline to the lakeshore, we deliver out-of-the-box solutions and seamless execution that elevate every program.

About the Role

We’re looking for a passionate, experienced Program Manager to join our dynamic team. This role reports directly to the CEO & Managing Partner and is responsible for managing the full event lifecycle—from creative proposal through on-site execution. You’ll take the lead on crafting custom corporate programs based on client RFPs, including budgeting, contracting, and event logistics. If you thrive in a fast-paced, detail-oriented, and collaborative environment, we want to meet you.

This position is hybrid, with in-person requirements four days a week at our office in Bucktown, site visits with clients, vendor meetings, and on-site operations in Chicago. Some Midwest travel and industry conference attendance may also be required.

What You’ll Do

• Serve as the main point of contact for clients, building relationships that support client retention and long-term success

• Lead creative event ideation and proposal development that aligns with client goals, budgets, and brand identity

• Manage the full sales process from proposal to contracting, then shift into execution and production

• Prepare contracts, statements of work, and invoices in accordance with procurement guidelines

• Build and maintain detailed, cost-effective budgets, ensuring programs remain profitable and on track

• Oversee on-site event operations, including load-in/load-out and vendor coordination

• Stay ahead of Chicago’s evolving vendor scene to bring fresh, local options to the table

• Meet and track annual sales goals, reporting monthly to the CEO

• Collaborate with the team on large-scale events and support overall program success

Who You Are

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in the events, hospitality, or DMC industry

• 3–7+ years of experience producing corporate, association, or incentive events (DMC experience a plus!)

• A master multitasker who thrives under pressure and can juggle multiple projects in different phases

• Detail-oriented and budget-savvy with strong communication and client service skills

• Passionate about sustainability and incorporating eco-conscious practices into event solutions

• Familiar with Salesforce, Microsoft Office Suite; CVENT and QuickBooks experience is a plus

• Comfortable working from home and in-person for operations as needed (4 days in-office/field, 1 remote)

• Flexible availability during peak seasons (May–June, September–November), including evenings and weekends when required

What We Offer

• Competitive salary based on experience

• Company-provided technology for remote work setup

• A supportive team that values creativity, individuality, and collaboration

Seniority level

• Seniority level

  Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Employment type

  Full-time

Job function

• Job function

  Project Management and Information Technology

• Industries

  Events Services

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