Events & Recognition Programs Lead

The MITRE Corporation • McLean, VA

2d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Events & Recognition Programs Lead is responsible for executing and continuously improving enterprise recognition programs, including spot awards, excellence awards, and service anniversary recognition. This role operates as a senior individual contributor, partnering closely with the Senior Manager, Events & Recognition Strategy to deliver high-quality, consistent, and scalable recognition experiences across the organization. The Lead ensures operational excellence, financial accuracy, and strong program adoption while supporting a culture of meaningful recognition.

Requirements

• Minimum of 8 years of related experience with a bachelor’s degree, or 6 years with a master’s degree, or an equivalent combination of related education and work experience in recognition programs, employee engagement, or HR program administration.
• Strong analytical skills with experience in budget tracking and reporting.
• Experience supporting enterprise-level programs in a complex organization.
• Ability to work cross-functionally and influence without direct authority.
• This position requires a minimum of 50% hybrid on-site in McLean, VA

Nice To Haves

• Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and execute with minimal oversight.

Responsibilities

• Execute day-to-day operations of enterprise recognition programs, including spot awards, excellence awards, and service anniversaries.
• Manage nomination cycles, timelines, and workflows to ensure smooth and consistent program delivery.
• Ensure recognition activities are processed accurately and in alignment with established guidelines.
• Identify and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency and user experience.
• Support the implementation and ongoing optimization of recognition platforms and tools.
• Maintain adherence to program governance, policies, and standards established by leadership.
• Track recognition budget utilization and maintain accurate records of awards distribution.
• Support financial reconciliation and reporting in partnership with Finance and the Senior Manager.
• Flag discrepancies, risks, or trends for leadership awareness.
• Maintain dashboards and reports tracking participation, engagement trends, and program performance.
• Analyze data to identify opportunities to improve program effectiveness and adoption.
• Provide insights and recommendations to the Senior Manager to inform strategy and enhancements.
• Coordinate with vendors and fulfillment partners to ensure timely and accurate delivery of recognition programs.
• Serve as a key point of contact for managers and stakeholders on recognition processes and inquiries.
• Partner cross-functionally with HR, Finance, and business teams to support program execution.

Benefits

• competitive benefits
• exceptional professional development opportunities for career growth
• a culture of innovation that embraces adaptability, collaboration, technical excellence, and people in partnership

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees