Contract Event Planner Jobs in Addison, IL (NOW HIRING)

The Event Designer/Planner Manager is a visionary creative and disciplined operator responsible for managing the entire event lifecycle - from ideation and concept development through execution and post-event reporting.

This role requires STRONG DESIGN,  sensibility, strategic planning expertise, financial oversight, and the ability to deliver elevated, immersive client experiences. The ideal candidate possesses an eye for detail, a deep understanding of client journey mapping, and the ability to creatively maximize space while maintaining strict budget adherence.

Requirements

Creative Direction & Client Experience Design

        Lead ideation and concept development aligned with client goals, brand identity, and audience engagement.

        Identify and interpret client requirements, expectations, and experiential goals for each event.

        Create and design comprehensive event look books, mood boards, and visual presentations based on client feedback and budget parameters.

        Demonstrate an eye for creatively using space and spatial flow to elevate guest experience.

        Think strategically about the client journey, ensuring a seamless and memorable experience from arrival to departure.

        Oversee the design and printing of event materials including programs, signage, branded collateral, and experiential elements.

Full-Service Event Planning & Production Management

        Manage all aspects of the event planning process from concept through post-event wrap-up.

        Identify and secure venues aligned with event objectives and budget.

        Oversee menu development in collaboration with catering partners.

        Collaborate with subcontractors and production vendors across decor, AV, entertainment, fabrication, security, transportation, and staffing.

        Negotiate and contract with vendors for goods and services related to event execution.

        Negotiate financial terms and authorize expenditures with supervisory oversight when required.

        Develop event-specific organizational tools including:

o   Production timelines

o   Expense trackers

o   Payment schedules

o   Vendor contact lists

o   On-site deliverables schedules

o   CAD drawings and spatial layouts

        Manage all event set-up, live execution oversight, tear down, and follow-up processes.

        Attend and oversee events to ensure all details are executed according to plan.

        Perform additional related duties as assigned or requested by clients.

Budget Development & Financial Oversight

        Build, manage, and adhere to detailed event budgets to avoid project overruns.

        Track expenses and maintain financial transparency throughout the project lifecycle.

        Maximize creative impact while working within financial constraints.

        Create proposals, contracts, and invoices for clients, sponsors, and vendors.

        Monitor payments and ensure financial accuracy across all accounts.

Vendor, Database & Administrative Management

        Maintain and update corporate databases including business contacts, sponsors, consumer databases, and vendor lists.

        Develop strong vendor partnerships and maintain outstanding vendor management standards.

        Ensure accurate recordkeeping within project management and CAD systems.

Post-Event Evaluation & Reporting

        Compile comprehensive post-event wrap-up reports and evaluations.

        Prepare client summary presentations including outcomes, successes, and recommendations.

        Identify opportunities for optimization and future event growth.

Required Skills & Qualifications

Experience

Proven experience in event, venue, hospitality, or experiential space design.

Ability to walk into an empty or existing venue and develop a compelling creative vision that aligns with client goals, brand identity, and event objectives.

Strong understanding of how decor, color palettes, furnishings, lighting, layouts, and design elements work together to create memorable guest experiences.

Demonstrated ability to transform client ideas into cohesive venue concepts and visual presentations.

Experience creating mood boards, design concepts, renderings, or event styling plans.

Exceptional creative and spatial visualization skills with a strong eye for aesthetics and detail.

Technical & Systems Skills

        Proficiency in Monday.com or similar project management systems preferred.

        Experience creating and interpreting CAD drawings or Web based platform

        Strong computer skills including Microsoft Office Suite.

        Proficiency in database management and spreadsheet applications.

Core Competencies

        Strong negotiation, leadership, and strategic planning skills.

        Outstanding vendor management capabilities.

        Exceptional organizational, project management, and time management skills.

        Ability to manage multiple projects while meeting deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

        Ability to think creatively while coping with limited resources and seizing opportunities.

        Strong written and verbal communication skills.

        Calm under pressure with the ability to problem-solve in real time.

        High energy, flexibility, and a pleasant professional demeanor.

        Sound judgment and knowledge of appropriate event protocol.

        Dependability, confidentiality, and strong professional ethics.

        Commitment to the mission and values of the organization, with the ability to communicate an inspired vision and sense of purpose.