NexlintoEvent Planning Manager
Company : Stryker
Location : Riverside, IL, 60546
Job Type : Full Time / Part Time
Date Posted : 17 February 2026
Job Description
The Event Planning Manager is responsible for overseeing the planning, coordination, and execution of events from concept to completion. This role manages logistics, budgets, vendors, and event teams to ensure successful, high-quality experiences that meet organizational goals. The ideal candidate is highly organized, creative, detail-oriented, and capable of managing multiple projects in fast-paced environments.
Key Responsibilities:
- Plan, coordinate, and execute events such as conferences, meetings, corporate functions, and special programs
- Develop event timelines, schedules, and project plans to ensure smooth execution
- Manage event budgets, track expenses, and ensure cost efficiency
- Source, negotiate, and manage contracts with vendors, venues, and service providers
- Coordinate logistics including transportation, catering, equipment, and materials
- Lead and supervise event staff, volunteers, and support teams
- Ensure events meet brand standards, quality expectations, and organizational objectives
- Conduct site visits and oversee on-site event operations
- Identify potential risks and implement contingency plans
- Evaluate event success through feedback, reporting, and performance metrics
Success Factors:
- Strong organizational and multitasking abilities
- Excellent leadership and team coordination skills
- Creative problem-solving and adaptability under pressure
- Attention to detail and commitment to quality execution
- Ability to manage deadlines and prioritize tasks effectively
Required Skills:
- Strong communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills
- Proficiency with event management software and productivity tools
- Budget planning and financial tracking abilities
- Project management and logistics coordination expertise
- Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, or travel as needed
Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in Event Management, Hospitality, Marketing, or related field preferred
- 3+ years of experience in event planning or program coordination
- Experience managing large-scale or multi-day events preferred
- Professional certification in event planning is a plus
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to stand and move for extended periods during events
- Capability to lift or transport event materials up to 30 lbs
- Ability to travel and work on-site at event locations
Work Environment:
Hybrid work environment involving office planning time and on-site event execution. The role may require travel, extended hours during event periods, and coordination with multiple teams, vendors, and stakeholders in dynamic settings.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Riverside's close-knit corporate community means event planners often juggle multiple local vendor relationships and navigate suburban logistics. Compared to big cities, there's a stronger emphasis on community engagement and cost-effective strategies tailored to the Midwest market.
Employers in Riverside value certifications like CMP (Certified Meeting Professional) and CSEP (Certified Special Events Professional) due to their demonstration of industry standards and professionalism, which help candidates stand out in this competitive Illinois job market.
Managers excel by leading cross-functional teams, managing comprehensive budgets, and creating strategic event roadmaps. Unlike coordinators, they focus on big-picture logistics, vendor negotiations, and ensuring alignment with organizational goals.
Experienced Event Planning Managers often transition into director roles, specialize in corporate communications, or pivot toward experiential marketing. Leadership skills combined with event expertise open doors to strategic roles in larger organizations.
Expect a fast-paced environment with fluctuating priorities—balancing site visits, vendor calls, and team management. Flexibility is key, as event days might require extended hours and quick problem-solving on the fly.
Stryker's emphasis on innovation and quality offers event managers opportunities to orchestrate high-profile corporate functions, collaborate with diverse teams, and refine leadership skills in a global healthcare setting.
Managing events within the medical technology sector requires strict adherence to brand standards and regulatory compliance, demanding precision and thorough coordination distinct from general event management roles.
Salaries typically range between $65,000 and $85,000 annually, reflecting Riverside's cost of living and demand for experienced event management professionals skilled in corporate event coordination.
Riverside has a moderate demand for event planners, with competition leaning toward candidates who offer a mix of local vendor knowledge, event software skills, and multi-event coordination experience.
Traffic patterns, venue availability, and suburban vendor scheduling require careful planning. Managers must anticipate delays, coordinate transportation efficiently, and balance budget constraints unique to the region.