Specialist II Events & Engagement Job Listing at Academy Sports + Outdoors in Katy, TX (Job ID R304739)

Description

Come work at a place where we take pride in creating a workplace environment that values hard work, commitment, and growth.

Education:

• High School diploma or equivalent required
• Bachelor's degree in business administration, Event Management, Hospitality Management, Public Relations or relevant field of study preferred
• CMP certification preferred, or other event industry-related certification

Work Experiences:

•  4 to 7 years of working experience, with a minimum of with 3 years related experience (event manager, event producer, or corporate event management) or similar field experience

Skills:

• Strong project and time management skills with an ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Experience planning and executing both in-person and virtual events
• Experience working with DMC, audio, visual, hotel, event venues, transportation, catering, and decor vendors
• Quickly learns new skills and adapts to an ever-changing environment
• Strategic and analytical, with creative resolution and problem-solving abilities
• Excellent organizational skills, pays strict attention to detail and meets critical deadlines within a high-volume, fast-paced environment
• Works collaboratively cross-functionally to influence alignment with stakeholders on complex challenges while maintaining a professional and executive presence
• Self-motivated, with the ability to meet position requirements under supervision from direct manager and functional leadership
• Strong team player that works seamlessly with internal and external partners to execute with excellence
• Receptive to feedback and seeks opportunities for continued growth and improvement
• Excellent interpersonal, listening, written, and verbal communication skills, with focus on customer service, interfacing effectively with individuals at all levels, both internal and external to deliver a positive experience
• Excels at conveying information and ideas to all levels of the organization through clear communication and data-driven decision-making
• Flexibility and awareness to reprioritize priorities as the needs of stakeholders evolve
• Proficient use of Microsoft Office programs, including Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint
• Proficient use of event registration programs including CVENT or Bravura

Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement initiatives to promote a positive work environment, fostering employee motivation and satisfaction through employee engagement and organizational events
• Collaborate with internal and external customers to understand their engagement and event objectives, budgets, and specific requirements
• Develop comprehensive engagement and event proposals and detailed timelines, ensuring all aspects are researched, vetted, well-coordinated, on schedule, and aligned with stakeholder expectations
• Source and negotiate with vendors, suppliers, and venues to secure the best services and prices while also fortifying strong working relationships
• Leverage contract comprehension and negotiation skills on behalf of Academy's stakeholders and policies, with supervision from direct manager
• Manage full-cycle engagement and event responsibilities including event setup, execution, and breakdown to ensure smooth operations including but not limited to attendee management, food and beverage, rooming lists, travel/transportation, DMC, online registration, event websites, space needs/usage/reservation, room turn around, event production, audio-visual equipment, signage, collateral, invitations etc.
• Proactively anticipate, troubleshoot, address, and communicate any issues that may arise during events and engagement initiatives
• Build strong relationships with internal customers by understanding their needs and delivering personalized services through a customer service lens
• Respond promptly to internal customer inquiries and provide professional assistance throughout the planning and initiative execution process
• Continuously update internal customers on the progress of their events, engagement, and travel arrangements before, during, and after initiatives
• Draft data-driven results from events and engagement opportunities to inform internal stakeholders and seek continuous improvement
• Create and adhere to engagement, event, and travel budgets, ensuring cost efficiency and client expectations are met or exceeded
• Monitor and manage travel itineraries for individuals and groups, considering their preferences and budgets
• Support the arrangement of transportation, accommodations, meals, and activities, ensuring seamless travel experiences
• Source destination-specific information, including venues, transportation infrastructure, attractions, dining, and experiences
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of events and travel industry trends and regulations
• Develop a thorough understanding of Academy's business, policies, procedures, and safety rules
• Learn and follow Academy's company policies, procedures, and safety rules
• Responsibilities may change; team members may be required to perform other tasks as assigned

Physical Requirements & Attendance:

• Up to 25% travel, as needed
• Ability to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays, if necessary
• Acceptable level of hearing and vision to perform job duties

Academy is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate with regard to employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any other category protected by law.​