The Opportunity
The Event Planner will assist and provide “hands-on” planning and execution of a variety of events, from highly complex VIP retreats/events to organizational parties/celebrations and other special events as assigned. Under the supervision of the Events Manager, this position will contribute to all aspects of event planning, including site selection, schedule creation and management, attendance, pre- and post-event communications, budget management, and creative elements, etc.

Our Unique Benefits
At RDV, we are intentional about enriching our culture and employee experiences through a unique blend of benefit offerings that include:

• Robust health insurance options with competitive employer contributions.
• 401k retirement plan with a generous employer match of up to 7.5%.
• Paid Time Off (PTO) starting at 22 days per year in addition to 9 paid holidays.
• Flexibility through Remote Option Fridays (position dependent).
• Grab and Go Deli/Market with employer-provided account credit of $650/year.
• Fun culinary experiences and connecting with co-workers at monthly catered lunches, free of charge to employees.
• Employer paid parking in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids.
• Education and training reimbursement programs.
• Discounted memberships to MVP Sportsplex.

What You'll Do
Event Planning:

• Excellent project management and “hands-on” execution for all assigned initiatives and events, focusing on exceptional outcomes and experiences for key stakeholders and participants.
• Display understanding and application of each event and/or initiatives focus, level of sophistication, and strategic goal.
• Ability to navigate the business, creative, collaborative functions of events:
  • Proactively communicate with direct manager and work effectively with multiple stakeholders, RDV Corp., Staffing, & household employees, committees, and/or constituencies to understand objectives, manage deliverables and execute impactful programs.
  • Contribute to design experiences and understand event strategies that support event goals.
  • Follow comprehensive project plan that include timelines, budget tracking, guest attendance, travel logistics, agenda, itineraries, invitation and communication, and production of other event materials.
  • Track budget to stay within expectations and timely reconciliation of expenses post event.
• Coordinate all details and aspects of each event including, but not limited to overall communication, location/facility, speakers, entertainment, technology, agenda, travel & logistics, accommodations, programming, etc.
  • Contribute to venue selection process and propose venue recommendations.  Provide summary of ideas and preliminary plans to leadership for consideration and approval.  
  • Maintain direct contact and outcomes with the venue(s) for all program specifics including food and beverage management, lodging, housekeeping, security, grounds, maintenance, etc.
  • Collaborate with the venue(s) on the menu creation as it relates to food and beverage selections for the various events including food styling and presentation, using information related to attendee dietary preferences and needs, as well as local cuisine.
  • Establish table assignments to enhance each meal-time experience.
  • Review internal event details with upline to ensure potential issues are avoided or resolved, working together to develop a contingency plan as needed to ensure highest level of service.
  • Collaborate with appropriate staff to ensure all travel and logistics are made in advance and managed effectively “real-time”, depending on the event, situation, and the attendees’ preferences. Provide detailed event and travel itineraries. 
  • Attend events and assist Events Manager to ensure all event issues and planning is handled in a timely, professional manner, as well as serving as an active liaison with the attendees to ensure outstanding customer service while maintaining the appropriate professional boundaries.
  • Identify, coordinate, create, and/or facilitate activities during events ranging from learning and experiential activities, to entertainment, social, and team building.
  • Coordinate and arrange for photography and/or videography as needed; review content and arrange for the creation & distribution of the photo album, images, and video media post-event.
  • Work collaboratively to present concepts, themes, and specific items for “Swag Bag” to leadership for event where applicable, order items, assemble and distribute Swag with well-executed presentation at the event.
  • Assist in maintaining event records including service provider, vendor names and contact information. 
  • Communicate across all internal and external interfaces in an efficient and professional manner.

What You'll Bring

• Bachelor’s Degree in hospitality or related field, CMP preferred
• 3-5 years of previous experience in event planning, including experience in event design and “hands on” producing of all aspects of an event. Experience providing event planning services to VIPs a strong plus.
• Excellent time management skills.
• Strong ability to express oneself to provide information to others effectively and in a succinct manner; outstanding verbal, written, and presentation abilities; ability to ask thoughtful questions to gain insights, listen, and incorporate learning into solutions.
• Strong project management skills required.
• Displayed success in being proactive as well as providing behind-the-scenes “hands-on” services.
• Excellent positive interpersonal and customer service skills.
• Demonstrated skill in gaining the cooperation and support of others; ability to lead by example and foster constructive and collaborative relationships; ability to collaborate and work well with teams of all types.
•  Strong sense of accuracy, quality, and organization.  Ability to think critically in a fast-paced environment while maintaining a high level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Flexibility and maturity; able to remain optimistic and calm while working with shifting priorities and deadlines essential.
• A self-starter who is able to work independently on multiple projects and prioritize work.
• A team player who is open to coaching and eager to develop and grow within the team
• Must be highly motivated and solution oriented with a high degree of integrity, ethics, discretion, and dedication.
• Strong collaboration and interpersonal skills required
• Must be able to work an irregular schedule, evenings or weekends as needed, additional hours and travel during peak times or as required.