Programs Specialist

Destination Cleveland•Cleveland, OH

1d•$50,000 - $61,000

About The Position

The Programs Specialist is responsible for planning, executing, and recommending improvements to all industry-facing programs and engagements that support Cleveland’s hospitality and tourism community. These programs are designed to strengthen industry engagement, improve the visitor experience and align local partners around shared standards, learning, and storytelling. This role works closely with colleagues across Destination Cleveland, as well as with external hospitality & tourism industry segments such as hotels, attractions, venues, and service providers. The Programs Specialist ensures Destination Cleveland-owned programs and events are well-organized, clearly communicated, data-informed and responsive to the evolving needs of the hospitality & tourism industry. Importantly, this position is designed to grow over time. As Destination Cleveland develops and launches new programs and initiatives, the Programs Specialist will play a key role in shaping, piloting and scaling future initiatives.

Requirements

Strong written and verbal communication skills
Extremely organized and strong attention to detail
Project management skills
Demonstrated research and critical thinking skills
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, ever-changing environment
Creativity in problem solving and solutions-oriented approach
Ability to work flexible hours when required
Public speaking skills
Bachelor’s degree in related field and one year of relevant experience
Prior work experience in program and/or event management, specifically in the hospitality and live events industry, is preferred (2 – 4 years).

Responsibilities

Manage the day-to-day planning and execution of multiple industry programs and engagements, ensuring timelines, logistics, communications, and deliverables are met.
Oversee a flagship industry training and engagement program, including scheduling, venues, materials, digital components, and participant communications.
Coordinate recurring industry engagements such as networking programs, educational sessions and partner meetings.
Support the relaunch and ongoing management of an industry workshop series focused on visitor marketing and destination success.
Execute day-to-day needs in support of building and maintaining Destination Cleveland-owned passports.
Work closely with internal Destination Cleveland events teams to align program and events goals, content and execution across the organization.
Partner with external venues, speakers, and industry stakeholders to deliver high-quality, relevant attendee experiences for programs & events.
Serve as a visible and trusted point of contact for industry partners participating in programs and events.
Track participation, engagement and attendee feedback across all programs & engagements.
Analyze program and event performance and identify opportunities for improvement or innovation.
Recommend enhancements and new program and events ideas based on industry needs, trends and organizational priorities.
Contribute to the design and launch of new industry programs over time.
Take on expanded responsibilities as programs evolve, scale, or are added to the organization’s portfolio.
Ensure accurate data capture and organization for all programs and events within the organization’s customer relationship management (CRM) system.
Develop and maintain clear processes (internally and externally) for all programs & events.
Active participant on the Destination Engagement team in support of other tasks designed to achieve sub-department goals of broadening & deepening reach within the hospitality industry, achieving private revenue goals, enhancing overall industry satisfaction & sentiment and increasing engagement