Trade Show & Event Planning Manager (Trade Show & Event Management Manager)

Wolters Kluwer•Irvine, IL

2d•$89,600 - $157,000•Hybrid

About The Position

Leads the strategy, planning, and execution of high-impact internal and external events—including client engagements, executive programs, and trade shows—within a fast-paced technology environment. Operates independently to deliver end-to-end event experiences aligned to business objectives, brand positioning, and measurable outcomes. Acts as a strategic partner to cross-functional stakeholders across Marketing, Sales, Product, and Leadership, translating priorities into scalable, high-quality programs. Owns the full event lifecycle, including budgeting, vendor and contract management, logistics, and onsite execution, while ensuring operational excellence and consistency. Manages multiple complex programs simultaneously in a fast-paced, high-performance environment, requiring strong prioritization, adaptability, and the ability to perform effectively under pressure. Leverages data, analytics, and stakeholder insights to continuously optimize performance. Contributes to process improvement and mentors junior team members to elevate team capability. Regular travel required (approximately 50%). This role independently leads complex event programs, delivering seamless, high-quality experiences that support strategic business goals and drive measurable impact in a dynamic, fast-moving, and often high-pressure environment.

Requirements

Minimum of 10 years of event management experience in corporate or technology environments
CMP certification required
Proven ability to independently lead large-scale, high-visibility events with measurable outcomes.
Strong communication and influencing skills with senior leaders and cross-functional teams.
Strong expertise in budgeting, forecasting, and ROI analysis.
Ability to manage multiple complex initiatives with strong prioritization and execution discipline in high-pressure environments.
Expertise in sourcing, negotiating, and managing vendor relationships.
Skilled in leveraging analytics and insights to optimize performance.
Detail-oriented with a focus on quality, process improvement, and execution.
Proactive, solutions-oriented, and able to thrive in a fast-paced, demanding, and often stressful environment.
Advanced skills in Cvent and Microsoft 365 (Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, Outlook).
Ability to travel up to 50% of the time (globally).

Responsibilities

Lead end-to-end strategy, planning, and execution of complex events, including internal meetings, client conferences, executive programs, and trade shows.
Partner with cross-functional stakeholders to align event strategy with business priorities and customer engagement goals.
Own the full event lifecycle, including program design, timelines, logistics, and onsite delivery.
Develop and manage event budgets, including forecasting, financial tracking, and reconciliation.
Source, negotiate, and manage vendors, venues, and contracts to ensure quality and cost efficiency.
Manage multiple concurrent programs, proactively identifying risks and driving solutions to meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
Establish and improve processes, tools, and best practices to enhance scalability and consistency.
Analyze performance metrics and provide actionable insights to improve future events.
Mentor junior team members and promote a collaborative, high-performing team environment.
Ensure compliance with organizational, contractual, and regulatory requirements.