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Destination Program Manager Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

AEG

Local Program Manager

Bedford Park, IL · On-site

Wintrust Sports Complex is a premier sport, recreation and entertainment destination focused on ... The Program Manager will oversee all local events, including sports and non-sports programs ...

GFT.

Transit Planning & Design Program Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$240K - $260K/yr

Together, we're transforming rail networks across North America and optimizing how goods and people reach their destinations. What you'll be challenged to do: The transit deputy program manager of ...

GFT.

Transit Planning & Design Program Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$240K - $260K/yr

Together, we're transforming rail networks across North America and optimizing how goods and people reach their destinations. What you'll be challenged to do: The transit deputy program manager of ...

Gotion, Inc.

Distribution Sales Manager

Manteno, IL · On-site

Gotion is a career destination - we are not simply attempting to just fill another job, but to ... programs, and utility EV incentive administrators • Collaborate with the GTM Program Manager to ...

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Destination Program Manager information

What is a destination program manager?

A Destination Program Manager is a professional responsible for planning, coordinating, and executing travel programs, events, or experiences in specific locations. They work with clients, vendors, and local partners to ensure all aspects of a trip or event run smoothly, from logistics and accommodations to activities and on-site support. Their role often involves managing budgets, negotiating contracts, and solving problems that arise during the event. Destination Program Managers are commonly employed in the travel, tourism, and event management industries. They play a key role in creating memorable and seamless experiences for travelers or event participants.

How does a destination program manager typically collaborate with local partners and vendors to ensure seamless event execution?

As a Destination Program Manager, you will regularly coordinate with local partners, such as hotels, transportation providers, and activity vendors, to ensure every aspect of the program meets client expectations. This involves conducting site visits, negotiating contracts, and establishing clear communication channels to address any issues promptly. Building strong relationships with these stakeholders is crucial for troubleshooting unexpected challenges and delivering a smooth experience for attendees. Effective collaboration often requires flexibility, cultural sensitivity, and proactive problem-solving skills.

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

To thrive as a Destination Program Manager, you need expertise in event planning, logistics coordination, and project management, often supported by a degree in hospitality or tourism and relevant experience. Familiarity with event management software, budgeting tools, and customer relationship management (CRM) systems is typically required. Exceptional organizational skills, cultural awareness, and strong interpersonal communication set top performers apart in this role. These abilities are vital for ensuring seamless program execution, client satisfaction, and effective coordination among diverse stakeholders.

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Destination Program Manager jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Destination Program Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Destination Program Manager job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

Local Program Manager

Bedford Park, IL • On-site

AEG
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about AEGexternal

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Organize and manage the facility's local events, including sports programs, camps, and leagues

  • Develop and manage program budgets, sales initiatives, and goals for leagues, tournaments, and special events

  • Hire, train, manage, and motivate staff involved in programs and activities

Job description

In order to be considered for this role, after clicking "Apply Now" above and being redirected, you must fully complete the application process on the follow-up screen.
LOCAL PROGRAM MANAGER - Wintrust Sports Complex
MCS SFM, LLC
LOCATION: Bedford Park, IL
DEPARTMENT: OPERATIONS
REPORTS TO: DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
STATUS: FULL-TIME (EXEMPT)
ABOUT THE COMPANY:
Wintrust Sports Complex is a premier sport, recreation and entertainment destination focused on improving the health and economic vitality of Chicago, IL. You will be joining a championship level team focused on fun, fulfillment and service built to enrich the community as well as your career and personal growth.
Wintrust Sports Complex is a managed facility by Sports Facilities Management, LLC, a Sports Facilities Companies (SFC) company. SFC is the nation's leading resource for managing and developing sports, recreation, wellness, and events facilities. We provide a highly collaborative and supportive culture that raises our team members to new levels of career growth. Together, we will carve a path in a hyper-growing industry where you will enjoy the journey and learn from the industry's best while having some fun.
SFC has been awarded national recognition as a Top Workplace and is considered a workplace of choice. Our mission-focused company is highly entrepreneurial, team-oriented with a culture centered on collaboration, accountability, excellence, and service. We are growing rapidly and looking for high performers at every level to grow with us.
POSITION SUMMARY:
The Program Manager will oversee all local events, including sports and non-sports programs, leagues, tournaments, and other local activities. This position will work closely with other departments in hiring, training, management, and staff scheduling. The Manager will work closely with the individual leaders of each department to successfully accomplish these responsibilities.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES WILL INCLUDE, BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO:
  • Organize and manage the facility's local events, including sports programs, camps, and leagues
  • Lend support to other Operation's Directors and Coaches
  • Support the coordination and maintenance of the facility's ongoing schedule
  • Develop programming to target various markets ranging from corporate, group, adult/youth/family, and special interest groups
  • Develop and manage program budgets
  • Create and develop sales initiatives and goals for leagues, tournaments, special events, etc.
  • Generate sales through networking, building relationships, and creating strategic alliances
  • Track and report weekly sales totals
  • Oversee all aspects of programs and special activities
  • Work with third-party partners to maximize revenue and attract events
  • Hire, train, manage, and motivate staff
  • Actively participates in other operational functions as necessary, including but not limited to event setup and execution, attending all scheduled events and meetings, assisting other departments during outside or special events, etc.
  • Creating and promoting program and activities within Birthday Parties, Camps, etc.
  • Assist in the management of the Entertainment Center, including securing video game services, creating revenue and expense reports, and other related tasks
  • Serve as MOD on weekdays, weekends, and during events

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Experience coaching/teaching both youth and adult sports
  • Must have proven track record of developing, marketing, and selling recreation and training programs
  • Must have excellent interpersonal, problem solving, and negotiating skills
  • Must be a team player
  • Must have excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Must have excellent computer skills, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.
  • Must be able to work flexible schedules including weekends, nights, and holidays
  • Must possess current CPR/FIRST AID certifications or must be willing to obtain them within a specified period

WORKING CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
  • Must be able to lift 50 pounds' waist high
  • May be required to sit or stand for extended periods of time whether indoors or outdoors, and squat, stoop, or bend
  • Will be required to operate a computer
  • Facility has intermittent noise
AEG logo

About AEG

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Saint Louis, MO, US

Year founded

1992

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