Event Planning & Management Specialist - Corporate Events

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 360,000 - 540,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting an Event Planning & Management Specialist for a leading corporate services firm in Port Elizabeth. You will plan, execute and evaluate conferences, product launches, team-building activities, and client events, coordinating with venues, caterers, AV and suppliers.

The role requires strong organizational skills, extensive vendor management, and the ability to manage multiple events, with hybrid on-site and remote tasks.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 4 years of corporate event planning and management experience.
• Proven ability to manage multiple events concurrently.
• Strong vendor management and negotiation skills.
• Excellent organizational and time-management abilities.
• Proficiency with event management software and standard office tools.

Responsibilities

• Plan, budget, and execute corporate events from conception to completion.
• Source and negotiate with venues, caterers, AV suppliers, and vendors.
• Develop event timelines, project plans, and run sheets.
• Manage registration, accommodation, transport, and on-site setup.
• Coordinate with stakeholders and clients to meet event objectives.
• Control event budgets and ensure cost-efficiency.
• Oversee on-site execution and troubleshoot issues.
• Conduct post-event evaluations and report on success.

Skills

Event planning

Budget management

Vendor negotiation

Stakeholder communication

Time management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management, Marketing, Communications, or related field

Tools

Event management software

MS Office

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading corporate services firm with a significant presence in Port Elizabeth , is seeking a highly organized and creative Event Planning & Management Specialist. This role is responsible for the end-to-end planning, execution, and evaluation of a wide range of corporate events, including conferences, product launches, team-building activities, and client appreciation functions. The ideal candidate will possess excellent logistical skills, strong vendor management capabilities, and a keen eye for detail. While the role primarily involves on-site coordination and client interaction, there will be flexibility for remote work on specific planning and administrative tasks.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, budget, and execute corporate events from conception to completion.
• Source and negotiate with venues, caterers, AV suppliers, and other vendors.
• Develop event timelines, project plans, and detailed run sheets.
• Manage event logistics, including registration, accommodation, transportation, and on-site setup.
• Coordinate with internal stakeholders and external clients to ensure event objectives are met.
• Manage event budgets effectively, tracking expenses and ensuring cost-efficiency.
• Oversee on-site event execution, troubleshooting any issues that arise.
• Conduct post-event evaluations, gathering feedback and preparing reports on event success.
• Maintain strong relationships with a network of trusted event suppliers.
• Stay updated on event industry trends and best practices.

Requirements

• Minimum of 4 years of experience in corporate event planning and management.
• Proven experience in managing multiple events simultaneously.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Strong negotiation and vendor management abilities.
• Proficiency in event management software and standard office applications.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport with clients and stakeholders.
• Experience working in a hybrid model, managing tasks both remotely and on-site.
• Ability to remain calm and professional under pressure.
• A creative flair for designing unique and impactful event experiences.
• Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management, Marketing, Communications, or a related field is preferred.
• Willingness to travel occasionally and work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends as required for events in and around Port Elizabeth .

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience, a performance-based bonus structure, and comprehensive medical and retirement benefits. Opportunities for professional development and networking within the corporate events industry are provided. Enjoy a dynamic work environment that combines on-site collaboration with remote flexibility in Port Elizabeth .