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Conference Planning Manager Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

PROGRAM ADMINISTRATOR II

Birmingham, AL ยท On-site

$18.35 - $29.80/hr

Ability to manage large-scale, high-visibility events and stakeholder expectations * Understanding ... Familiarity with CME events, conference planning, or community outreach initiatives Work ...

Lead post-award conference within ten (10) business days after date of award * Present draft ... Oversee transition planning at contract conclusion; deliver transition-out plan 90 days prior to ...

Lead post-award conference within ten (10) business days after date of award * Present draft ... Oversee transition planning at contract conclusion; deliver transition-out plan 90 days prior to ...

The Emerging ERP Solutions practice is all about bringing you the best in cloud-based ERP ... conference room pilots (CRPs) functional configuration, testing, client user training * Business ...

The Emerging ERP Solutions practice is all about bringing you the best in cloud-based ERP ... conference room pilots (CRPs) functional configuration, testing, client user training * Business ...

Lead risk identification, analysis, and mitigation planning for project continuity and readiness ... Coordinate, authorize, and facilitate conference travel. * Review and approve expense reports in ...

Two or more years of Event Management, Catering, Conference Services, or Hospitality Event Planning experience within a full-service Marriott hotel is strongly preferred. Comparable upscale hotel or ...

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Conference Planning Manager information

See Alabama salary details

$10K

$54.4K

How much do conference planning manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for conference planning manager in Alabama is $51,362.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,900.00 and $52,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Conference Planning Manager vs Event Coordinator?

AspectConference Planning ManagerEvent Coordinator
ResponsibilitiesOversees large conferences, manages budgets, coordinates logistics, and leads planning teamsAssists in event setup, manages smaller event details, and supports logistics
CredentialsBachelor's degree in hospitality, event management, or related field; certifications like CMP are commonHigh school diploma or equivalent; some experience in event planning preferred
Work EnvironmentCorporate or large venue settings, often in a managerial roleVariety of settings including corporate events, weddings, and community events
Industry UsageCommonly employed in corporate, conference, and association sectorsUsed across diverse event types, including social and corporate events

The Conference Planning Manager typically handles larger, more complex conferences with strategic oversight, while the Event Coordinator supports various events with more operational tasks. Both roles require strong organizational skills, but the manager position involves higher-level planning and leadership responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a conference planning manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Conference Planning Manager, you need expertise in event coordination, budgeting, logistics, and strong project management skills, often supported by a degree in hospitality or related fields. Familiarity with event management software, registration platforms, and budgeting tools is typically required. Outstanding organizational skills, attention to detail, negotiation abilities, and effective communication are vital soft skills for success. These competencies ensure seamless event execution, stakeholder satisfaction, and the ability to manage complex conferences efficiently.

What are some common challenges faced by a conference planning manager, and how can they be addressed?

Conference Planning Managers often face challenges such as managing tight deadlines, coordinating with multiple vendors, and adapting to last-minute changes. Successful managers develop strong organizational and communication skills to keep all stakeholders aligned and ensure smooth event execution. They also stay flexible and proactive, anticipating potential issues and maintaining contingency plans for unexpected situations. Building strong relationships with reliable vendors and fostering teamwork within their planning team are key strategies for overcoming these challenges.

What does a conference planning manager do?

A Conference Planning Manager is responsible for organizing and coordinating all aspects of conferences, from initial concept through to execution. Their duties include selecting venues, managing budgets, overseeing logistics, coordinating with vendors, and ensuring that the event runs smoothly. They work closely with clients to understand their needs and objectives, and often supervise a team to handle on-site operations. Strong communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills are essential for success in this role.
What are popular job titles related to Conference Planning Manager jobs in Alabama? For Conference Planning Manager jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Conference Planning Manager jobs in Alabama look for? The top searched job categories for Conference Planning Manager jobs in Alabama are:
What cities in Alabama are hiring for Conference Planning Manager jobs? Cities in Alabama with the most Conference Planning Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Conference Planning Manager job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,362 per year, or $24.7 per hour.

Senior Conference Services Manager

Elevation Convening Center & Hotel

Montgomery, AL โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Join Ithaka Hospitality Partners on an Exciting Journey!
Are you ready to be part of something extraordinary?
Ithaka Hospitality Partners is seeking a passionate and service-driven individual to join our team at Elevation Convening Center & Hotel, a purpose-driven and sophisticated destination offering stunning views of downtown Montgomery, AL.
We are currently hiring a Senior Conference Services Manager, a key leader responsible for planning, coordinating, and executing group meetings, conferences, conventions, and special events. Serving as the primary contact for clients after the sales process, this role partners with Sales, Catering, and hotel operations to ensure seamless event execution, exceptional guest experiences, and outstanding service. This is an exciting opportunity to join a collaborative team where your leadership and expertise will help create memorable experiences for every guest.
Position Summary
The Senior Conference Services Manager is responsible for the successful planning, coordination, and execution of group meetings, conferences, conventions, and special events. This position serves as the primary contact for clients after the sales process and works closely with hotel departments to ensure seamless event execution and exceptional guest experiences.
The Senior Conference Services Manager manages the hotel's most complex and high-profile groups, provides leadership and mentorship to Conference Services team members, and serves as a strategic partner to Sales, Catering, and Operations teams to maximize client satisfaction and hotel profitability.
Essential Responsibilities
Client Relationship Management
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for assigned groups and events from turnover through departure.
  • Develop strong relationships with meeting planners, event organizers, and key stakeholders.
  • Conduct pre-planning meetings and operational reviews with clients.
  • Anticipate client needs and proactively identify solutions to ensure successful event execution.
  • Maintain regular communication with clients regarding event details, timelines, and changes.
  • Resolve client concerns and service recovery opportunities promptly and professionally.

Event Planning & Execution
  • Manage the planning and execution of large-scale, complex, and VIP group programs.
  • Coordinate guest room blocks, meeting space utilization, food and beverage functions, audiovisual requirements, transportation, and special event logistics.
  • Create and maintain accurate Banquet Event Orders (BEOs), Group Resumes, and event documentation.
  • Lead pre-convention meetings and BEO review meetings.
  • Ensure all event specifications are communicated effectively to hotel departments.
  • Oversee on-site group activities and provide operational support throughout programs.
  • Monitor event execution to ensure adherence to client expectations and hotel standards.

Operational Leadership
  • Partner with Banquets, Culinary, Front Office, Housekeeping, Engineering, Revenue Management, and Sales teams to ensure flawless event delivery.
  • Facilitate communication between departments regarding group requirements and operational priorities.
  • Identify opportunities to improve efficiencies, service delivery, and guest satisfaction.
  • Assist in developing conference services standards, procedures, and best practices.
  • Participate in forecasting, staffing, and operational planning discussions.

Revenue & Financial Management
  • Maximize group revenue opportunities through upselling and enhancement recommendations.
  • Monitor group spending and event profitability.
  • Review contracts and ensure event specifications align with contracted commitments.
  • Assist with forecasting food and beverage revenue and group-related operational expenses.
  • Support collection of deposits, guarantees, and final billing processes.

Team Leadership & Development
  • Provide mentorship and guidance to Conference Services Managers, Coordinators, and Conference Concierge team members.
  • Assist with onboarding and training new team members.
  • Support department leadership in achieving service and financial objectives.
  • Serve as a resource for problem-solving and operational decision-making.
  • Act as department leader in the absence of the Director of Conference Services.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management, Business, Event Management, or related field preferred.
  • Minimum 5-7 years of hotel conference services, catering, or event management experience.
  • Experience managing large convention, corporate, association, and social group business.
  • Strong understanding of hotel operations, banquet execution, and conference planning.
  • Experience with hotel sales and catering systems preferred.
  • Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously.
  • Strong organizational and problem-solving abilities.

Key Competencies
  • Client Relationship Management
  • Strategic Event Planning
  • Operational Leadership
  • Revenue Optimization
  • Team Development
  • Communication & Collaboration
  • Decision Making
  • Attention to Detail
  • Service Recovery
  • Project Management

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to stand and walk for extended periods during meetings and events.
  • Ability to move throughout hotel meeting and event spaces frequently.
  • Ability to occasionally lift up to 25 pounds.

Success Measures
  • Group and meeting planner satisfaction scores.
  • Successful execution of assigned events and programs.
  • Achievement of departmental revenue and profitability goals.
  • Accuracy and timeliness of event documentation.
  • Client retention and repeat business.
  • Effective collaboration with hotel departments.
  • Development and support of Conference Services team members.

Reporting Relationship
Reports to the Director of Sales and works closely with Sales, Catering, and Hotel Operations leadership.
Additional Expectations
This position provides sales and event support for both Elevation Convening Center & Hotel and the Hotel at Auburn University & Dixon Conference Center. Through December 31, 2026, responsibilities are expected to be allocated approximately 75% to Elevation Convening Center & Hotel and 25% to the Hotel at Auburn University & Dixon Conference Center. Beginning January 1, 2027, the position will support Elevation Convening Center & Hotel exclusively, unless otherwise determined by business needs. Monthly travel to each property will be based upon the business demands and agreed upon with the sales/conference services leadership of both properties.
An Equal Opportunity Employer
We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, genetic information, or any other status protected by law or regulation. It is our intention that all qualified applicants are given equal opportunity and that selection decisions be based on job-related factors.