Event Senior Consultant

Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association•Chicago, WA

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

The role is responsible for management of conferences and/or events including but not limited to timelines, finances, stakeholders, contracts, and event technology for internal, external, hybrid, and virtual meetings. The role will collaborate with internal stakeholders in addition to managing the request for proposal (RFP) process, negotiating contracts, planning, and executing logistics, facilitating agenda development, and managing budgets.

Requirements

Bachelor's Degree or equivalent work experience
5+ Years In a meeting management role overseeing large and/or complex meetings and conferences
Microsoft Office proficiency to include Word, PowerPoint, Excel and Outlook
Comfortable with new software applications, ability to learn new products quickly
Proficient organization skills with ability to prioritize responsibilities
Effective time management capabilities
Fluidity to pivot as needed; change is inevitable
Experienced communication capabilities
Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
Effective contract negotiation skills
Ability to think on your feet and make quick strategic decisions in the face of chaos
Critical thinking skills
Ability and comfort in making informed recommendations to leadership and other stakeholders
Five or more years' in a meeting management role overseeing large and/or complex meetings and conferences
Experience with project management to include budget oversight
Deep experience with contract negotiations
Established relationships in the meetings industry with strong knowledge of first tier cities in the US

Nice To Haves

Proficient knowledge of virtual and hybrid meeting needs
Knowledge of the health care industry in general
Experience with virtual and hybrid meeting planning and execution
Experience managing stakeholder expectations at all levels

Responsibilities

Serve as the primary contact for assigned programs, handling planning, documentation, vendor management, daily operations, and internal coordination.
Utilize Cvent for RFPs, lead team meetings, manage registration and technology, create marketing content, oversee speaker management, and handle onsite logistics.
Complete program close-out tasks, integrate sponsorships, maintain databases, and coordinate with internal partners.
Research relevant industry information to present findings and make recommendations for BCBSA in meeting procedures that incorporate changing best practices and the current environment.
Ensure that conference and event planning follows practices and protocols identified and described by the BCBSA corporate DEI initiatives.