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Contract Event Planner Jobs in Decatur, GA (NOW HIRING)

Handle hotel and event venue RFP process, including site selection, contract negotiation and finalization, and payment of deposits. * Oversee end-to-end event planning, including pre-event logistics ...

Job #217826 Chipton-Ross is seeking a Master Planner for a contract opportunity in Marietta, GA ... critical events have happened, including factors which may impact delivery or cost. * Ensure ...

Research and gather estimates for budget planning and development. * Review contracts from ... Manage special events hosted during meetings - i.e. dinners, special board meetings. * Manage and ...

... event reporting ✅ Source and manage vendors; negotiate contracts and pricing ✅ Coordinate ... or meeting planning ✔ Proven ability to manage multi-day events and complex logistic ✔ ...

... event reporting Source and manage vendors; negotiate contracts and pricing Coordinate attendee ... planning Proven ability to manage multi-day events and complex logistics Experience managing ...

... event reporting ✅ Source and manage vendors; negotiate contracts and pricing ✅ Coordinate ... planning ✔ Proven ability to manage multi-day events and complex logistics ✔ Experience ...

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Contract Event Planner information

See Decatur, GA salary details

$13

$29

$42

How much do contract event planner jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract event planner in Decatur, GA is $29.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.46 and $34.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does a Contract Event Planner Do?

Contract event planners are independent contractors hired to organize and coordinate all the aspects of an event. In this role, you discuss the needs and expectations of your client concerning the size and other details of the event. If the venue has not been chosen, your first responsibility is to help your client find a location to hold the event. Then you research and book various vendors that can provide the look and feel that your client wants, such as caterers, florists, and DJs or live bands. Open communication with your client throughout the planning process is essential to ensure that the details are approved and on budget. Many contract event planners are also expected to attend the event and assist with any issues that arise on that day.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Contract Event Planner, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Event Planner, you need expertise in project management, budgeting, logistics, and strong knowledge of the events industry, often supported by a degree in hospitality or a related field. Familiarity with event management software (such as Cvent or Eventbrite), vendor management platforms, and, in some cases, certifications like the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) designation is valuable. Exceptional organizational skills, creativity, negotiation abilities, and effective communication help you stand out by ensuring seamless event execution and client satisfaction. These competencies are crucial for managing complex events, meeting client expectations, and delivering memorable experiences within deadlines and budgets.

How does a contract event planner typically coordinate with vendors and clients during the planning process?

As a contract event planner, you will act as the main point of contact between clients and various vendors such as caterers, venues, and audiovisual teams. This involves regular communication to clarify client expectations, negotiate contracts, and ensure timelines are met. You'll often use project management tools and attend site visits to oversee progress and troubleshoot any issues. Strong organizational skills and proactive communication are essential for ensuring all parties are aligned and that the event runs smoothly.

What are contract event planners?

Contract event planners are professionals who are hired on a temporary or project basis to organize and manage events such as conferences, weddings, corporate meetings, or parties. Unlike full-time staff, they typically work independently or through an agency and handle all aspects of event planning, including budgeting, vendor coordination, logistics, and on-site management. Their role is to ensure events run smoothly and meet the client's objectives, drawing on their expertise and network of contacts. Contract event planners offer flexibility and specialized skills, making them a popular choice for clients with occasional or unique event needs.

What is the difference between Contract Event Planner vs Freelance Event Coordinator?

AspectContract Event PlannerFreelance Event Coordinator
CredentialsEvent planning certifications, relevant experienceEvent planning experience, certifications optional
Work EnvironmentTypically hired for specific projects, often through agencies or companiesSelf-employed, manages multiple clients independently
Employer/Industry UsageUsed by event planning firms, corporations, and agenciesCommon among independent professionals and small businesses
Search/Comparison IntentLooking for contractual event planning rolesSeeking freelance event coordination opportunities

The main difference is that Contract Event Planners are usually hired through agencies or companies for specific projects, often requiring formal certifications. Freelance Event Coordinators operate independently, managing multiple clients without employer oversight. Both roles involve event organization, but their work arrangements and employment structures differ.

What are the most commonly searched types of Event Planner jobs in Decatur, GA? The most popular types of Event Planner jobs in Decatur, GA are:
What are popular job titles related to Contract Event Planner jobs in Decatur, GA? For Contract Event Planner jobs in Decatur, GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Contract Event Planner jobs in Decatur, GA look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Event Planner jobs in Decatur, GA are:
What cities near Decatur, GA are hiring for Contract Event Planner jobs? Cities near Decatur, GA with the most Contract Event Planner job openings:
Infographic showing various Contract Event Planner job openings in Decatur, GA as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 11% Full Time, 81% Part Time, and 3% Temporary. Highlights an 14% Physical, 10% Hybrid, and 76% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,836 per year, or $29.7 per hour.
Trade Show & Event Planning Manager (Trade Show & Event Management Manager)

Trade Show & Event Planning Manager (Trade Show & Event Management Manager)

Wolters Kluwer

Kennesaw, GA

$89.60K - $157K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Wolters Kluwer rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

30th of 184 rated software companies


Job description

Job Description Summary

Leads the strategy, planning, and execution of high-impact internal and external events-including client engagements, executive programs, and trade shows-within a fast-paced technology environment. Operatesindependently to deliver end-to-end event experiences aligned to business objectives, brand positioning, and measurable outcomes.

Acts as a strategic partner to cross-functional stakeholders across Marketing, Sales, Product, and Leadership, translating priorities into scalable, high-quality programs. Owns the full event lifecycle, including budgeting, vendor and contract management, logistics, and onsite execution, while ensuring operational excellence and consistency.

Manages multiple complex programs simultaneously in a fast-paced, high-performance environment, requiring strong prioritization, adaptability, and the ability to perform effectively under pressure. Leverages data, analytics, and stakeholder insights to continuously optimize performance. Contributes to process improvement and mentors junior team members to elevate team capability.

Regular travel required (approximately 50%).

About the Role

Thisroleindependently leads complex event programs, delivering seamless, high-quality experiences that support strategic business goals and drive measurable impact in a dynamic, fast-moving, and often high-pressure environment.

Responsibilities

  • Lead end-to-end strategy, planning, and execution of complex events, including internal meetings, client conferences, executive programs, and trade shows.

  • Partner with cross-functional stakeholders to align event strategy with business priorities and customer engagement goals.

  • Own the full event lifecycle, including program design, timelines, logistics, and onsite delivery.

  • Develop and manage event budgets, including forecasting, financial tracking, and reconciliation.

  • Source, negotiate, and manage vendors, venues, and contracts to ensure quality and cost efficiency.

  • Manage multiple concurrent programs, proactively identifying risks and driving solutions to meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

  • Establish and improve processes, tools, and best practices to enhance scalability and consistency.

  • Analyze performance metrics and provide actionable insights to improve future events.

  • Mentor junior team members and promote a collaborative, high-performing team environment.

  • Ensure compliance with organizational, contractual, and regulatory requirements.

Skills & Qualifications

  • Experience & Certification:Minimum of 10years of event management experience in corporate or technology environments;CMP certification required.

  • Strategic Leadership:Proven ability to independently lead large-scale, high-visibility events with measurable outcomes.

  • Stakeholder Management:Strong communication and influencing skills with senior leaders and cross-functional teams.

  • Financial Acumen:Strong expertise in budgeting, forecasting, and ROI analysis.

  • Program Management:Ability to manage multiple complex initiatives with strong prioritization and execution discipline in high-pressure environments.

  • Vendor & Contract Management:Expertise in sourcing, negotiating, and managing vendor relationships.

  • Data-Driven Approach:Skilled in leveraging analytics and insights to optimize performance.

  • Operational Excellence:Detail-oriented with a focus on quality, process improvement, and execution.

  • Adaptability & Resilience:Proactive, solutions-oriented, and able to thrive in a fast-paced, demanding, and often stressful environment.

  • Technology Proficiency:Advanced skills inCvent and Microsoft 365 (Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, Outlook).

  • Ability to travel up to 50% of the time (globally).

Our Interview Practices

To maintain a fair and genuine hiring process, we kindly ask that all candidates participate in interviews without the assistance of AI tools or external prompts. Our interview process is designed to assess your individual skills, experiences, and communication style. We value authenticity and want to ensure we're getting to know you-not a digital assistant. To help maintain this integrity, we ask to remove virtual backgrounds and include in-person interviews in our hiring process. Please note that use of AI-generated responses or third-party support during interviews will be grounds for disqualification from the recruitment process.

Applicants may be required to appear onsite at a Wolters Kluwer office as part of the recruitment process.

Compensation:

$89,600.00 - $157,000.00 USDThis role is eligible for Bonus.

Compensation range listed is based on primary location of the position. Actual base salary offer is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to skills, experience and actual hiring location. Your recruiter can share more information about the specific offer for the job location during the hiring process.

Additional Information:

Wolters Kluwer offers a wide variety of competitive benefits and programs to help meet your needs and balance your work and personal life, including but not limited to: Medical, Dental, & Vision Plans, 401(k), FSA/HSA, Commuter Benefits, Tuition Assistance Plan, Vacation and Sick Time, and Paid Parental Leave. Full details of our benefits are available upon request.


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