Lead Events Specialist

Job Title : Lead Events Specialist Location : Chicago, IL Duration : Long Term Job Description : What you’ll do : The Lead Event Specialist will be responsible for planning, coordinating, and executing high-impact events for FHLBank Chicago, ensuring alignment with the Bank’s mission and strategic goals. This role involves managing logistics, overseeing event budgets, coordinating with internal and external stakeholders, and delivering exceptional experiences for members, customers, and employees. The ideal candidate will have strong project management skills, a keen eye for detail, and a passion for creating engaging and seamless events. How you’ll make an impact : Drive Strategic Impact : Plan and execute high-impact events that align with FHLBank Chicago’s mission and strategic goals, making a real difference. Lead Exceptional Experiences : Oversee logistics, budgets, and stakeholder coordination to create unforgettable experiences for members, customers, and employees. Innovate and Improve : Use your project management skills and attention to detail to continuously enhance and deliver seamless, engaging events. What you can expect : Event Strategy & Planning : Develop and execute event strategies that support FHLBank Chicago’s business objectives Manage a portfolio of events, including conferences, meetings, roundtables, dinners, webinars, and outings Collaborate with internal departments to identify event goals, content, target audiences, and success metrics Stay informed about industry trends and best practices to enhance event effectiveness Event Execution & Logistics : Oversee all aspects of event logistics, including venue selection, vendor negotiations, catering, AV setup, and guest accommodations Develop detailed event timelines, run-of-show documents, and contingency plans Manage onsite event execution, ensuring smooth operations and a high-quality attendee experience Coordinate speaker engagements, including presentation materials and schedules Budget & Vendor Management : Develop and manage event budgets, ensuring cost-effectiveness and alignment with financial guidelines Negotiate contracts with vendors, hotels, and service providers to secure the best terms Track expenses and provide post-event financial analysis Stakeholder & Team Coordination : Serve as the primary point of contact for internal stakeholders, leadership, and external partners regarding event planning and execution Lead cross-functional teams, including marketing, communications, and IT, to ensure seamless event delivery Provide guidance and support to junior event staff or contractors as needed Post-Event Analysis & Reporting : Gather attendee feedback and analyze event effectiveness based off previously defined success metrics Implement best practices to enhance future events What you’ll bring : Bachelor’s degree in Event Planning, Marketing, Communications, or a related field 7+ years of experience in event planning, corporate events, or a related role Experience managing large-scale events, including both in-person and virtual formats Strong project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple events simultaneously Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills Proficiency in event management software (Cvent preferred), Microsoft Office Suite, and Canva Ability to work under pressure and adapt to changing priorities Knowledge of financial services or the banking industry is a plus