Event Planner

Service Corporation International•Ridgeland, MS

About The Position

Our associates celebrate lives. We celebrate our associates. Responsible for planning and implementing detailed events within a few days. Plans, schedules resources and vendors, and implements event plans supporting funeral services, visitation, and receptions in accordance with the family’s wishes and contract. Communicates instructions, expectations, budgets, and deadlines to vendors and support staff.

Requirements

Associates degree in hospitality, event planning, or related discipline required. Two (2) years of event planning experience may be considered in lieu of degree.
At least one (1) year event planning or catering experience is strongly preferred
Computer literate and proficient with MS Office
Ability to use proprietary software in the administration of responsibilities
Work is primarily indoors, also includes working outdoors during all seasons and weather
Professional attire required when in contact with families
Frequent continuous period of time sitting or standing up to 6 hours per day frequently climbing stairs to access buildings
Physical effort requiring manual dexterity is required, includes paperwork, calculators, computers and phone usage
Flexibility of availability is a requirement
Standards hours include nights and weekends, when the majority of Services occur
Typically, less than 20 hours a week is worked M-F 8am-5pm
Limited amount of local and/or multiple location travel required

Responsibilities

Plans Events by reviewing contract and discussing with Funeral Director for clarification
Schedules internal resources including but not limited to facility space adequate for event size, equipment, tables, chairs, podiums, decorations, vehicles, drivers, and Attendants
Contacts and schedules vendors communicating expectations, budget, and timeline
Manages Services Arrangements implementation (visitation, funeral, reception, or graveside) per contractual arrangements
Obtains and inspects vendor products and addresses issues
Communicates instructions to support staff for set-up, work assignments during events, and clean-up
Working along with support staff, also sets-up arrangements and may assist with event support
Available during events to resolve issues
Responsible for events to meet or exceed the family’s wishes
Performs a variety of event planning duties such as ordering of memorabilia, stationary, scanning photos, coordinating the development of electronic presentations, music, or drafting obituaries
Working with Corporate Products, sources local vendors for catering, flowers, and other local service products
Obtains pricing and ensures inspections are compliant and business practices are in good standing
Develops catering menus
Collaborating with Corporate Products follows guidance for vendor contract & pricing approval
Maintains vendor Key Performance Indicators and metrics regarding contract compliance
Develops and maintains Event Playbook including event plans, KPIs, and lessons learned
Documents areas for improvement and reviews with manager to implement enhancements
Additional responsibilities as requested or assigned