Manager, Meetings & Expositions

**About Kellen** Kellen stands as a global leader in providing management and services to professional and trade organizations. We empower Board leaders by offering operational frameworks and strategic guidance to better serve their organization's mission and vision. As a dedicated professional services company, we offer solutions to organizations, such as association management, public affairs, marketing, meeting management, education, and strategic communication. Leveraging our expertise across diverse industries including healthcare, food and beverage, buildings and materials, and technology, as well as our global perspective with a presence in North America and Europe, we collaborate with over 100 organizations to help achieve their goals. Understanding the importance of a strong and effective Board of Directors, we offer customized management solutions that address the unique needs of each organization we partner with. **Position Summary** The Meetings Manager role involves serving as the primary point of contact for assigned clients, taking ownership of planning and executing their events with precision and professionalism. Embracing Kellen Best Practices, this position contributes to the success of the Meetings & Expositions department by leveraging event planning expertise. The Meetings Manager is specifically responsible for planning and managing meetings, conferences, trade shows, and client functions. This role manages logistics, budget adherence, and client satisfaction, engaging closely with clients, vendors, and internal teams to ensure seamless event delivery. **Essential Functions** Client Engagement and Execution - Establish and maintain strong relationships with assigned clients, understanding their goals and expectations for each event. - Collaborate with clients to determine event objectives, budget constraints, and desired outcomes. - Execute events in accordance with client specifications, ensuring a high level of customer satisfaction. - Communicate effectively with clients throughout the planning process, providing updates and addressing concerns promptly. Operational Excellence - Implement event planning best practices to ensure successful execution of assigned meetings. - Develop and manage event budgets, ensuring adherence to financial goals. - Coordinate logistics, including hotel RFP and contracting, online registration, and room block management. - Research, recommend, and select meeting sites and activities that align with client objectives. - Negotiate and manage vendor contracts, including coordination with hotels and other meeting venues. - Travel as needed for site selection and onsite event management. - Develop detailed meeting specifications, workplans, timelines, and budgets. Collaboration and Reporting - Work collaboratively with internal teams to achieve client objectives and maintain a high standard of service. - Track and report meeting metrics, including attendance, registration, and budget performance. - Provide regular updates to clients and internal stakeholders on the progress of event planning activities. - Address any issues or challenges that arise during the planning and execution phases. Continuous Improvement - Stay informed about industry trends and incorporate innovative ideas into event planning processes. - Contribute to the refinement and improvement of departmental processes and best practices. - Seek opportunities for professional development and stay updated on relevant certifications and industry knowledge. Other duties that align with the mission and vision of the company as assigned. **Qualifications** - Bachelor’s degree preferred. - 5+ years of experience in event planning and execution. - Relevant certifications, such as Certified Meeting Professional (CMP), are advantageous. - Strong organizational and planning skills, with the ability to manage multiple events concurrently. - Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, for effective client inte…