Senior Event Planner & Operations Manager

Oklahoma City, OK, USA|Onsite

Job Overview

Employment Type

Full-time

Work Schedule

Flexible

Weekend Shifts

Benefits

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Paid Time Off

Retirement Plan

Professional Development

flexible schedule

Employee Discounts

Job Description

Our client is a premier catering and event management company based in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, specializing in delivering exceptional events ranging from intimate weddings and corporate functions to expansive festivals and high-profile gala events. Renowned for its commitment to excellence, innovation, and client satisfaction, this company has established itself as a leader in the event planning industry. With a dedicated team of professionals, the company combines creativity with operational precision to craft unforgettable experiences that delight clients and their guests. The organization places a strong emphasis on quality service, meticulous attention to detail, and seamless event execution, leveraging extensive vendor networks and industry expertise to bring client visions to life.

The position offered is for a Senior Event Planner and Operations Manager, a critical leadership role designed to oversee the entire lifecycle of event planning and execution. This role is perfect for an experienced, highly organized, and creative professional who thrives in a fast-paced, dynamic environment where hospitality and client experience are paramount. The Senior Event Planner & Operations Manager will be responsible for managing a diverse portfolio of events, ensuring all client requirements and expectations are not only met but exceeded. Responsibilities include conceptualizing unique event concepts, developing comprehensive proposals, managing detailed budgets, negotiating with vendors and suppliers, and coordinating on-site logistics. The role also involves leading a team by supervising and mentoring junior event staff, instilling a collaborative and efficient team culture.

This is a hands-on position that demands a combination of strategic planning, operational management, financial oversight, and interpersonal skills. The successful candidate will handle venue selection, contract negotiations, permit acquisitions, and compliance with health and safety standards to ensure smooth event operations. They must keep abreast of industry trends and technologies to maintain the company’s competitive edge. Exceptional communication skills are essential as the role requires close interaction with clients, vendors, staff, and other stakeholders to create bespoke events tailored to client needs and budgets.

Working in this role means engaging directly with the vibrant event industry in Oklahoma City, a region known for its rich cultural scene and growing demand for sophisticated event services. The position offers the opportunity to shape memorable experiences that have both a personal and professional impact. As a key player in the company’s growth and success, the Senior Event Planner & Operations Manager will enjoy a stimulating career path with prospects for further progression within the hospitality and event management sectors. This role requires flexibility regarding work hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays to align with varied event schedules.

Overall, this opportunity is ideal for dedicated, creative, and proactive professionals seeking to advance their career in a prestigious catering and event management company, contributing to its reputation for excellence and client-focused service.

Job Requirements

Bachelor's degree in hospitality management, event management, business administration, or related field
Minimum of 5 years experience in event planning and management
Proven experience managing event budgets and negotiating with vendors
Strong understanding of catering operations and food and beverage service standards
Exceptional organizational and time management skills
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Proficiency in event planning software and Microsoft Office Suite
Ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays
Ability to work under pressure and problem-solve effectively
Creative mindset and passion for guest experiences

Job Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management, Event Management, Business Administration, or related field
Minimum of 5 years experience in event planning and management with a portfolio of diverse successful events
Proven experience managing budgets and vendor negotiations
Strong understanding of catering operations and food and beverage service standards
Exceptional organizational, time management, and multitasking skills
Excellent communication, interpersonal, and client-facing abilities
Proficiency in event planning software and Microsoft Office Suite
Ability to work under pressure and adapt to changing circumstances
Creative mindset with passion for outstanding guest experiences

Job Duties

Conceptualize, plan, and execute diverse events ensuring client requirements and expectations are met and exceeded
Develop detailed event proposals including scope, timelines, budgets, and staffing plans
Manage all aspects of event logistics including venue selection, vendor coordination, contract negotiation, and permit acquisition
Oversee on-site event execution managing staff, volunteers, and timelines
Develop and manage event budgets ensuring financial targets and profitability
Build and maintain strong client relationships providing expert guidance
Source and negotiate with vendors and suppliers for competitive pricing and quality service
Conduct post-event evaluations to identify improvement areas
Ensure compliance with health, safety, and licensing regulations
Supervise and mentor junior event staff fostering a collaborative team environment