Associate Event Manager

BCD•Chicago, IL

4d•$55,000 - $65,000•Remote

About The Position

Join The Collective, the fast-moving creative agency arm of BCD Meetings & Events, as an Associate Event Manager and help bring standout events to life. In this role, you’ll support high-end incentives, meetings, conferences, and special events while building your project management and onsite operations expertise. You’ll work closely with clients, internal teams, hotels, and vendors to keep programs running smoothly from planning through execution. If you’re energized by fast pivots, smart teamwork, and creating memorable experiences, you’ll fit right in.

Requirements

2+ years of experience in event operations, hotel operations, or a DMC environment
Hands-on onsite event experience across different types of programs and roles
A bachelor’s degree, ideally in Hospitality or Event Planning
Familiarity with registration platforms, event apps, or web-related event tools
Availability to travel 30%–50% and, if based in Chicago, work in the downtown office Tuesday through Thursday for the first 6 months

Responsibilities

Supporting event planning and operations for meetings, incentives, conferences, trade shows, and special events
Managing timelines, budgets, project details, and team coordination across multiple programs at once
Building trust with clients, suppliers, and internal partners through clear, professional communication
Staying organized under pressure, solving problems quickly, and knowing when to escalate issues
Using tools like Microsoft Excel, Cvent, SmartSheets, QuickBooks, and other event tech to keep projects on track