Event Program Manager // Job Description
Summit Events is a leading, locally owned and operated Destination Management Company (DMC) in Park City, Salt Lake City, and St. George, UT and we continue to expand our operations in Southern Utah.
We’re seeking a skilled event/hospitality professional to join our dynamic team and contribute to our ongoing growth, supporting our in-market sales team in our St. George office. We pride ourselves on our experienced, dedicated, and fun team culture, which contributed to our many successful events last year. The growth and excitement around the St. George area, Black Desert Resort, and more offers Summit Events a great opportunity to expand our brand of creative and collaborative event design, dedication to the guest experience, and emphasis on unique local connections to Southern Utah.
As Program Manager, you'll lead and manage complex, multi-day event programs, serving as the primary client liaison and a key member of our planning and operations team. You will be responsible for the comprehensive management of diverse event programs, taking into account size, scope, client sensitivity, importance, location, and other critical factors. Your duties will include the coordination of all program planning, from pre-sales assistance through final billing and reconciliation, while consistently delivering a high level of customer service. You will work closely with clients to understand their needs and ensure program objectives and outcomes are met.
- Start Date: As soon as possible
- Position Type: Full-time, salary position starting at $60,000 per year; may vary based on experience and skills. Health, Dental, and Vision benefits available
- Reports To: Director of Operations
- Office Location: Downtown Office in St. George, UT 84770
- Primary Territory: Southern Utah area, including but not limited to St. George, Ivins, Santa Clara, Springdale, Hurricane
- Must live in St. George, UT area
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Plan and oversee the operation of multiple client programs and events for Summit Events
- Complete project timelines; establish a workflow schedule, facilitate prompt and accurate handling of all program details
- Liaise between the client, hotel, and vendors as it relates to all aspects of the event, including food and beverage, activities, transportation, décor, entertainment, and more
- Day-to-day client contact; work closely with client to ensure program objectives are well executed in a proactive and strategic manner
- Manage overall program budget, program profitability, client invoices, and initiate supplier payments
- Manage and negotiate some third-party contracts
- Coordinate all program details and produce an event résumé/BEO that outlines all program specifics and requirements
- Work closely with the sales team to ensure a seamless transition to program operations
- Utilize a business process management system to manage the program from sales turnover meeting to the final bill reconciliation
- Will be asked to work some nights and weekends based on the event/program schedule. Some travel opportunities may be made available
- Will be asked to assist with administrative tasks that include but are not limited to, client invoicing, estimated costings, proposal development, courtesy holds, and some miscellaneous office administrative duties
- Occasional site inspections and onsite operational presence outside of regular business hours Support the collective operational efforts of Summit Events
- Perform other related duties as directed
Skills, Experience, and Qualifications Summit Events
- Experience in hospitality, meeting management, and event planning or related fields
- Ability to manage multiple programs and event budgets
- Experience in effectively handling multiple projects/demands simultaneously
- Strong organizational and administrative skills
- Advanced oral and written skills required
- Proficient in Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, Dropbox, Deputy and other sales software and databases (e.g. HubSpot, Event Cost Sheet)
- Help develop and maintain strategic partnerships with existing Summit Events clients, company affiliations, associations, local businesses, and visitor/chamber bureaus
- Attempts made with each client or potential client to promote the DMC Network with a goal toward lead generation amongst our network of DMCs
- Ability to work flexible hours, including nights and weekends
- Valid driver’s license, cell phone, and personal vehicle
Responsibilities
- Develop comprehensive event concepts, themes, and layouts aligned with client goals and brand standards.
- Coordinate all aspects of event planning, including venue selection, catering arrangements, entertainment, décor, and technical requirements.
- Negotiate contracts with vendors, venues, caterers, and suppliers to secure the best terms while maintaining quality standards.
- Manage event budgets meticulously, tracking expenses and maximizing value through strategic upselling and vendor negotiations.
- Oversee event marketing efforts to promote events effectively across various channels, increasing attendance and engagement.
- Ensure seamless event execution by supervising setup, managing timelines, troubleshooting issues on-site, and coordinating staff or volunteers.
- Provide exceptional guest services by addressing attendee needs promptly and professionally during events.
- Collaborate with marketing teams to create promotional materials and coordinate outreach efforts for maximum visibility.
- Conduct post-event evaluations to gather feedback, analyze success metrics, and identify opportunities for improvement in future events.
Qualifications
- Proven experience in event planning, program management, or hospitality roles such as banquet management or restaurant/hotel experience.
- Strong negotiation skills with the ability to secure favorable contracts and vendor agreements.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to liaise effectively with clients, vendors, and team members.
- Demonstrated expertise in event marketing strategies and upselling techniques to enhance revenue opportunities.
- Exceptional organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously under tight deadlines.
- Knowledge of budgeting processes, catering logistics, guest services, and hospitality standards.
- Familiarity with contracts, venue operations, banquet setups, catering arrangements, and fundraising activities is highly desirable.
- Experience in customer service roles within hospitality settings will be considered an asset.
- Ability to adapt quickly in fast-paced environments while maintaining attention to detail and professionalism. Join us as an Event Planner/Program Manager where your creativity meets meticulous planning—helping us craft unforgettable experiences that leave lasting impressions!
Program Manager Must Possess and Continually Refine the Following Skills
- Time management and effective communication with team members, clients, vendors, and industry partners with a high level of tact and diplomacy
- Excellent written and verbal skills required to produce clear communications
- Ability to manage and organize projects from inception to completion resulting in the execution of successful events
- Ability to identify new business opportunities
- A strong ability and willingness to work in a team environment
To Apply
If you’re looking to work in an exciting, creative, and fast-paced environment, enjoy showing off the beauty of Southern Utah, and want to help build something cool, we want to hear from you here via Indeed.
Pay: From $60,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Flexible schedule
- Health insurance
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
