Director, Events and Marketing

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES EVENTS
• Develop detailed, executable plans for all IHLA events, meetings and seminars
• Negotiate contracts with suppliers such as hotels, speakers, and vendors
• In coordination with membership staff, promote/sell tickets and event sponsor ships
• Build out event registration pages in Association Management Software
• Establish and manage event budgets including the review and approval of event invoices; assist Finance Director in reconciling event budgets
• Manage Events Committee and sponsor feedback to plan scope and format of events
• Assist Finance Director with accounts receivable and collections for all event attendees
• Provide on-site logistical leadership at all events, including directing other staff and volunteers. Manage in-kind product donations and vendors
• Conduct post-event evaluations to determine how future events could be improved
• Coordinate annual Stars of the Industry program, including nominations, judging and ceremony
• Order awards, gifts and other event-related supplies as required
• Arrange for audio-visual equipment, transportation, displays and other event needs
• Coordinate overnight housing for IHLA members and staff, as needed
• Read trade publications, attend seminars, and consult with other meeting professionals to keep abreast of meeting management standards and trends
MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS
• Serve as “Chief Storyteller” and position IHLA as a resource and thought leader to external audiences on topics important to the hotel industry
• Design event marketing materials and distribute in an efficient and economical manner
• Enhance and refresh IHLA’s branding and design across multiple online and hard copy mediums
• Maintain and update all digital assets for external and internal groups, including website, social media, presentation slide decks, and communication methods
• Evaluate metrics to determine the success of online communications and website visitation and develop strategies to grow engagement with members
• Develop and maintain organization’s print and electronic collateral and branding material including, but not limited to sales collateral
• Collect content for and edit regular bi-weekly newsletter
• Create, update and distribute blast emails, webinars and event announcements, including assisting in handouts and materials for virtual and in-person meetings and events
• Provide writing and editing support to other departments as needed
REPORTING

Reports to the President and CEO. This position will manage one team member:
Coordinator of Events and Marketing
WORK LOCATION

This is a hybrid role with an expectation to be in the downtown Chicago office 3 days per week
QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE
• Minimum of five years of relevant professional experience
• Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) preferred
• Proficient experience with MS Office Suite; website and graphic design software; and social media applications
• Strong customer service/sales skills via phone, email, and in-person
• Strong organizational skills and ability to multi-task, excellent time management skills
• Ability to think and strategize at a high-level as well as perform tactically
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills
• Exhibit high energy and be a team player
• Excellent attention to detail
• Willing to take initiative on projects and suggest innovative solutions
• Ability to occasionally work beyond office hours (including early mornings, evenings, and weekends) and occasionally travel throughout the state for events, including overnight stays
COMPANY OVERVIEW

The Illinois Hotel & Lodging Association (IHLA) is a not-for-profit, 501(c)(6) trade association that represents the lodging industry in Illinois. IHLA members consist of over 500 hotels and their employees throughout the state as well as related industry partners and suppliers. IHLA provides significant benefits to its members by advocating the industry’s position on political issues, educating through quality, relevant seminars and webinars, providing promotional exposure and access to current industry news, resources, and contacts through IHLA’s website, marketing initiatives, member programs, and networking events, and recognizing hotel employees for their outstanding accomplishments, service, and leadership in the Illinois hospitality and lodging industry.

IHLA is proud to offer a competitive compensation and benefit plan. IHLA is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to a diverse work culture.
TO APPLY

Please send a resume and cover letter to Job
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