Event & Conference Manager

Placements24; South Africa; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 660,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary + bonuses

Diverse event opportunities

Supportive team environment

Career advancement opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced Event & Conference Manager for a leading hospitality group in Pretoria, Gauteng. You will oversee end-to-end planning, execution and delivery of bespoke events at multiple venues, ensuring client satisfaction and operational excellence.

The role requires strong organizational skills, budget management, vendor negotiation, and the ability to coordinate with catering, AV, banqueting and sales to create memorable experiences.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 4 years in event planning and management, preferably hospitality or corporate events.
• Proven track record managing varied events from small meetings to large conferences.
• Excellent organizational, project and time management skills.
• Strong negotiation and vendor management abilities.
• Excellent communication and client relationship management.
• Proficient in event management software and MS Office Suite.

Responsibilities

• Manage the lifecycle of events from client consultation to on-site execution.
• Develop detailed event plans with timelines, budgets, staffing and logistics.
• Collaborate with clients to translate vision into tailored events.
• Coordinate with catering, AV, banqueting and sales for seamless service.
• Source and manage external vendors, negotiating contracts and quality.
• Oversee event setup, execution and breakdown with meticulous attention to detail.
• Manage budgets and track expenses to ensure profitability.
• Handle on-site issues calmly and efficiently.
• Conduct post-event debriefings and prepare management reports.
• Stay updated on industry trends and best practices in event management.

Skills

Event planning

Vendor management

Budget management

Client relations

MS Office

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management or related field

Tools

Event management software

Budgeting software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading hospitality group with a strong presence in Pretoria, Gauteng , is seeking an experienced and meticulous Event & Conference Manager . This role is integral to delivering exceptional bespoke events, from intimate corporate gatherings to large-scale conferences. The successful candidate will be responsible for the planning, execution, and successful delivery of all events hosted at their venues, ensuring client satisfaction and operational excellence. You will liaise closely with clients to understand their needs, manage budgets, coordinate with various departments, and oversee logistics from conception to completion. The ideal candidate will possess outstanding organizational skills, a keen eye for detail, and a passion for creating memorable experiences. This position requires a proactive approach and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. You will be the primary point of contact for event clients, ensuring seamless execution and exceeding expectations.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the entire lifecycle of events, from initial client consultation and proposal development to on-site execution and post-event evaluation.
• Develop detailed event plans, including timelines, budgets, staffing, and logistical arrangements.
• Collaborate with clients to understand their vision and translate it into successful, tailored events.
• Coordinate with internal departments such as catering, AV, banqueting, and sales to ensure seamless service delivery.
• Source and manage external vendors and suppliers, negotiating contracts and ensuring adherence to quality standards.
• Oversee event setup, execution, and breakdown, ensuring all details are meticulously managed.
• Manage event budgets effectively, tracking expenses and ensuring profitability.
• Handle any on-site issues or emergencies calmly and efficiently.
• Conduct post-event debriefings and prepare reports for management and clients.
• Stay updated on industry trends and best practices in event management.

Requirements

• Minimum of 4 years of experience in event planning and management, preferably within the hospitality or corporate event sector.
• Proven track record of successfully managing a variety of events, from small meetings to large conferences.
• Excellent organizational, project management, and time management skills.
• Strong negotiation and vendor management abilities.
• Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and client relationship management skills.
• Proficiency in event management software and MS Office Suite.
• Ability to remain calm and effective under pressure.
• A creative mindset with a strong attention to detail.
• Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management, Marketing, or a related field is advantageous.
• Must be available to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, as required by event schedules.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, including potential for bonuses based on event success, and comprehensive benefits.
• You will have the opportunity to work on diverse and exciting events in Pretoria , enhancing your professional portfolio.
• Benefit from a supportive team environment and opportunities for career advancement within a growing organization.
• This role offers a dynamic work experience in a key administrative and business hub.