Strategic Operations Manager, Central Services

PRA Business Events•,

2d•$70,000 - $80,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The Strategic Operations Manager is a critical component of the Opportunity Team and is responsible for the logistical management and operational execution of client events. The Strategic Operations Manager serves as the primary contact for the client during the pre-planning and operation phases of their event and is a liaison with PRA's supplier-partners. The Strategic Operations Manager is an on-site Ambassador of the PRA brand. The Strategic Operations Manager is not associated with a particular PRA destination and will be deployed across the system to support regional teams in the planning and/or operation of their events as needed. This role may work in collaboration to supplement local teams or may own program development and operation in its entirety. This role will travel significantly across the PRA system and will work remotely in between trips.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree, or equivalent relevant experience
5 years of experience in overseeing the execution of corporate meetings, client events, and other complex programs.
Ability to manage operations functions and effectively supervise and direct Field staff
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with a diverse group of clients, supplier/partners, coworkers, and employees
Ability to read, analyze, and interpret client proposal requirements, contracts, financial reports, and other legal documents
Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from clients, supplier partners, and hoteliers.
Ability to multitask and work on multiple programs with different deadlines
Must be able to work well with all levels of management and staff, hoteliers and venue staff, clients and supplier/partner
Working knowledge of attractions, hotels, parks, venues and supplier/partners in the local area and ability to locate and vet new venues and supplier/partners

Nice To Haves

DMC, corporate incentive travel, hospitality or related experience highly preferred

Responsibilities

Assist Experience Designers with operational and logistical components of program development
Thoroughly review program details with cross-functional partners in Sales and Experience Design in preparation for turnover to Event Production
Serve as primary client contact throughout planning and operation of the event
Manage program changes with suppliers and internal partners during planning and on-site operation
Provide program enhancement options for our clients
Negotiate supplier contract terms and pricing including, but not limited to service expectations, guarantees, cancellation policies, billing, etc.
Assign field staff to projects based on availability and specific skill sets required
Prepare, distribute and review relevant program information and provide direction for field staff
Process and manage field staff compensation including timesheets, expense reports, and pay rate
Align with hotel and venue partners to ensure seamless coordination throughout program operation
Conduct pre-con meetings with client/hotel to review all program details as confirmed
Ensure cross-functional Sales partners are fully informed of all program changes, taking prompt corrective action and providing alternatives as necessary
Manage all components of on-site program operation
Drive program profitability ensuring Gross Profitability targets are met
Manage submission and receipt of client program deposits as per contract terms throughout lifecycle of the program
Timely completion of post-operation Program Closeout process as per PRA protocol