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Conference Planning Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

GGP

Conference Services Attendant

Chicago, IL · On-site

$19.23 - $26.44/hr

The Conference Services Attendant will be responsible for cross functional support with the ... Family planning assistance including IVF, surrogacy, and adoption options * Wellness and mental ...

GGP

Conference Services Attendant

Chicago, IL · On-site

$19.23 - $26.44/hr

The Conference Services Attendant will be responsible for cross functional support with the ... Family planning assistance including IVF, surrogacy, and adoption options * Wellness and mental ...

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All JobsConference Planning JobsConference Planning Manager JobsConference Planning Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL

Conference Planning Manager information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$11.3K

$61.8K

How much do conference planning manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for conference planning manager in Chicago, IL is $58,374.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,700.00 and $59,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 popular job titles related to Conference Planning Manager jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Conference Planning Manager jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Conference Planning Manager jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Conference Planning Manager jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Conference Planning Manager jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Conference Planning Manager job openings:

Conference Planning Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Conference Planning Manager job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 88% In-person, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,418 per year, or $28.1 per hour.

Assistant Director of Conference Planning

Q Center

Saint Charles, IL • On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Q Center is looking for a Assistant Director of Conference Planning to join our team!
This position does require a 45 hour work week.
The salary range for this position is $85,000 - $100,000
POSITION SUMMARY
The Assistant Director of Conference Planning supports the Director of Conference Planning by providing leadership and operational oversight for assigned conference programs and daily departmental functions. This role focuses on execution excellence, client satisfaction, cross-department coordination, and team support. The Assistant Director plays a critical role in ensuring accurate event planning, seamless on-site execution, and consistent delivery of Q Center service standards.
QUALIFICATIONS
Education amp; Experience:
  • Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or related field required
  • Minimum six (6) years of progressive hospitality management experience within a full-service hotel, resort, or comparable hospitality environment
  • Director-level experience required
  • Minimum five (5) years of supervisory or leadership experience required, previous director-level experience preferred
  • Proficiency with event planning systems, software, and diagramming tools
  • Proven track record of managing complex events, budgets, and departmental teams
Physical requirements:
  • Regular movement throughout the property to oversee operational areas
  • Ability to lift up to 20 pounds occasionally and up to 10 pounds frequently
  • Extended hours may be required based on business demands
Knowledge, Skills amp; Competencies:
  • Strong executive presence with the ability to influence across all levels of the organization
  • Outstanding verbal and written communication skills
  • Strong listening, problem solving, and conflict resolution abilities
  • Ability to manage multiple, complex events simultaneously
  • Strategic thinking with operational and financial insight
  • Strong client-service orientation and commitment to exceptional guest experiences
  • High level of professionalism, integrity, and accountability
ESSENTIAL DUTIES amp; RESPONSIBILITIES
Leadership amp; Strategic Partnership
  • Align objectives with operational goals and Q Center’s mission and vision
  • Provide leadership insight on client service trends, operational opportunities, and service improvements
  • Communicate organizational directives, operational priorities, and service standards
  • Represent Q Center professionally with clients, guests, and vendors
Conference Planning Operations amp; Compliance
  • Provide strategic oversight of daily Conference planning operations, ensuring alignment with organizational goals, operational standards, and client expectations
  • Ensure departmental procedures, workflows, and documentation are compliance with internal SOPs, company policies, and regulatory requirements. including the creation, implementation, and ongoing maintenance of SOPs for new or updated procedures.
  • Monitor scheduling, space utilization, and resource allocation to maximize efficiency and support seamless event delivery
  • Maintain active onsite presence to ensure seamless program execution and client satisfaction
  • Consistently exceed service standards to strengthen client relationships, elevate event outcomes, and ensure business and long-term loyalty
  • Lead Q Center key accounts, developing detailed event specifications, diagrams, timeliness, and addendums for high level, complex programs
  • Create and distribute accurate Banquet Event Orders, group resumes, and floor plans
  • Maintain complete and accurate event files in Delphi, Opera and diagramming systems
  • Track and communicate changes in real time and update documentation in accordance with established Standard Operating Procedures deadlines
  • Present assigned programs at operational meetings
  • Ensure compliance with purchase orders processes and financial documentation standards
Profitability amp; Performance Optimization
  • Develop strategies to improve operational efficiency and service delivery within Conference Planning
  • Support initiatives that improve client satisfaction, retention, and repeat business
  • Assist with post-event billing and invoice accuracy
  • Partner with department leaders to ensure Conference Planning operations contribute positively to overall property performance and profitability
Operational Excellence amp; Process Improvement
  • Review, analyze, and improve departmental procedures to enhance efficiency and client satisfaction
  • Implement tools and workflows to streamline conference planning operations
  • Coordinate across departments to ensure smooth execution
  • Monitor key performance indicators and event metrics to drive continuous improvement
Leadership amp; Talent Development
  • Lead, develop, and manage Conference Planning managers and coordinator
  • Recruit, interview, and hire staff in accordance with company standards
  • Coordinate and assist with onboarding and training of Conference Planning managers and coordinator
  • Conduct performance evaluations and provide coaching and mentorship
  • Foster a culture of accountability, teamwork, and service excellence
Vendor amp; Contract Management
  • Monitor third-party performance and contractual obligations
  • Ensure vendor services support operational needs while maintaining fiscal responsibility
Other Duties as Assigned
  • Perform additional responsibilities as needed to support Q Center’s operational and strategic objectives
Work Environment
This position operates within a professional hospitality environment and requires regular interaction with executive leadership, department heads, associates, clients, vendors, and external partners. The Assistant Director of Conference Planning must maintain a visible presence throughout the property and actively engage in operational oversight, client interactions, and event execution to ensure seamless program delivery and exceptional service standards.

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