Strategic Manager of Events at Oaken Events

Job Summary:

The Strategic Manager of Events is responsible for developing and implementing the overall strategic vision and direction for an organization's event portfolio. This includes analyzing market trends, identifying new event opportunities, and aligning event initiatives with the organization's broader business objectives. The Strategic Manager of Events provides strategic leadership to the events team, collaborates with cross-functional stakeholders, and ensures the successful delivery of high-impact, revenue-generating events.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Develop and regularly update the organization's event strategy, ensuring it aligns with the overall business plan and brand objectives
2. Conduct in-depth market and competitive research to identify emerging event trends, understand customer needs, and inform the development of new event concepts
3. Lead the ideation and creation of innovative, impactful event experiences that drive engagement, revenue, and brand awareness
4. Oversee the planning and execution of the organization's event portfolio, including conferences, trade shows, corporate functions, and other initiatives
5. Collaborate with the events team, sales, marketing, and other stakeholders to align event activities with broader marketing and business strategies
6. Analyze event data and metrics to assess the performance and return on investment of the organization's event initiatives
7. Identify opportunities for improvement, streamlining, and scaling event operations to enhance efficiency and profitability
8. Develop and manage event budgets, ensuring financial targets are met or exceeded
9. Establish and maintain relationships with key industry partners, vendors, and venues to secure strategic event opportunities
10. Provide strategic guidance and mentorship to the events team, fostering their professional development and promoting a culture of continuous improvement
11. Represent the organization at industry events, conferences, and networking functions to build brand visibility and thought leadership

Required Qualifications:

1. Bachelor's degree in event management, marketing, business administration, or a related field
2. Minimum 8-10 years of progressive experience in event management and strategic planning
3. Proven track record of developing and executing successful, high-impact event strategies that drive measurable results
4. Excellent project management, budgeting, and financial management skills
5. Strong analytical and data-driven decision-making capabilities
6. Exceptional communication, presentation, and stakeholder management skills
7. Thorough understanding of event industry trends, best practices, and emerging technologies
8. Ability to think strategically, identify new opportunities, and align event initiatives with broader business goals
9. Demonstrated leadership skills and the ability to inspire and motivate a team of events professionals

Preferred Qualifications:

1. Master's degree in event management, marketing, or a related field
2. Industry-recognized certifications will be a added advantage
3. Experience in a specific event sector (e.g., corporate, nonprofit, association, etc.)
4. Familiarity with event marketing and promotion strategies, including digital and social media
5. A strong network of industry connections and partnerships