Strategic Events & Experiences Lead

PCMA Greater Midwest Chapter; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

PCMA Greater Midwest Chapter is seeking a Manager, Events & Experiences to lead one or more high-impact events from planning through on-site execution in a fast-paced North American portfolio. You will work closely with internal teams and external partners to deliver exceptional attendee experiences that align with PCMA’s vision.

The role emphasizes cross-functional collaboration, strong budgeting, vendor negotiations, and delivering measurable outcomes across digital and in-person formats.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of events management and/or marketing experience.
• Bachelor’s degree or similar experience.
• Financial acumen and skilled at setting and managing a budget.
• Excels in planning and strong attention to detail.
• Experience utilizing AI tools to create efficiencies in project management.
• Excellent at collaborating with cross-functional stakeholders of all levels, internal and external to PCMA, to accomplish event/meeting objectives.
• Excellent written, verbal, and visual presentation skills, with the ability to convey complex topics with simplicity.
• Ability to work with urgency and deliver under tight deadlines; prioritize workload.
• Data-driven mindset focused on KPIs and pipeline targets.
• Flexible, agile in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience working in both digital and in-person event environments; managing internal and external production teams.
• Comfortable dealing with ambiguity and driving clarity for the team.
• Trustworthy with high integrity and judgment.
• Strong relationship builder and ambassador for PCMA.
• Ability to travel as business needs require (approx. 30%).

Responsibilities

• Lead the planning and execution of one or more assigned events within PCMA’s North American portfolio, focusing on target communities and managing resources to achieve KPIs under guidance.
• Manage all logistical aspects of assigned events, including designing programs for event professionals and enhancing attendee experience.
• Negotiate contracts with vendors, partners, and agencies to ensure value and cost-effectiveness.
• Foster cross-collaboration among internal teams and external stakeholders to coordinate efforts.
• Oversee all aspects of event planning and execution from concept to post-event evaluation, ensuring deadlines and objectives are met.
• Manage event resources (personnel, equipment, materials) to maximize effectiveness and minimize costs.
• Develop and manage budgets for assigned events with timely reporting and reconciliation.

Skills

Events management

Budgeting

Vendor negotiation

Cross-functional collaboration

AI tools in PM

Communication

Travel readiness

Education

Bachelor's degree

Job description

PCMA Greater Midwest Chapter is seeking a Manager, Events & Experiences to lead one or more high-impact events from planning through on-site execution in a fast-paced North American portfolio. You will work closely with internal teams and external partners to deliver exceptional attendee experiences that align with PCMA’s vision.

The role emphasizes cross-functional collaboration, strong budgeting, vendor negotiations, and delivering measurable outcomes across digital and in-person formats.