Event Specialist

Event Specialist

This is a hybrid role working at home and also in an office/onsite. Candidates must be based near Washington, D.C. to be considered for this job.

We're PRA, the leading destination management company (DMC) with 45+ years of experience across 32+ states and 100+ destinations.

We believe destinations have power-and our people unlock its magic. We push past boundaries to transform ideas into business event experiences that connect, inspire, and endure. We love-and have fun-doing it.

If you're curious, bold, and ready to build standout experiences, you'll find your place here.

Summary

The Event Specialist is a hybrid role that combines the creativity of program design with the operational expertise of event production. This role works in close partnership with the sales team to design innovative event solutions while also managing the logistical details that bring them to life. The Event Specialist is client-facing, supplier-focused, and a key driver of both memorable attendee experiences and seamless program execution.

Primary Responsibilities

• Collaborate with Sales to develop compelling proposals, presentations, and attendee experiences that align with PRA brand standards and client goals


• Create detailed program designs across areas such as transportation, registration, gifting, tours and activities, teambuilding, offsite venues, dine-arounds, professional staffing, and other tactical service offerings


• Research, source, and vet venues and supplier partners, maintaining strong industry relationships and staying ahead of trends


• Attend monthly Creative meetings and Event Producer meetings


• Prepare and manage program budgets, costings, and line-item details with accuracy, identifying opportunities for efficiencies and cost savings


• Contribute to product innovation, ensuring sales tools, resource materials, and pricing guides remain current and relevant


• Serve as the primary client contact from contract through program delivery, ensuring clear communication, proactive updates, and exceptional service


• Manage logistical operations including supplier contracting, field staff scheduling, billing, invoicing, and program documentation


• Confirm, negotiate, and finalize supplier arrangements, ensuring service expectations, pricing, and contractual terms are met


• Conduct pre-conference meetings and oversee on-site event execution, troubleshooting and problem-solving in real time to guarantee success


• Supervise, train, and direct Field Staff, ensuring they are well-prepared and equipped to deliver the program vision


• Strategically monitors program financial health, adjusting as needed to meet business goals


• Completion of all program production paperwork, such as trip sheets, check requests, service agreements, invoicing, job costing, expense reports, etc.


• Keeps Regional and Global Sales Managers fully informed of all opportunities and program changes and takes prompt corrective action where necessary to ensure successful delivery of client objectives

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent relevant experience


• 3+ years of experience in event design, planning, and/or production. DMC, hospitality, corporate meetings, or incentive travel background preferred


• Strong creative thinking with proven operational and logistical management skills


• Exceptional interpersonal and communication abilities with clients, supplier partners, and internal teams


• Ability to multitask across multiple programs, manage shifting priorities, and maintain keen attention to detail


• Proficiency in budgeting, financial reporting, and contract negotiation


• Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams and field staff with professionalism and clarity


• Knowledge of local venues, attractions, and supplier partners, with the ability to source new and innovative options


• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as business needs dictate

Salary: $70,000-$75,000 plus bonuses. Benefits package includes Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance, Company-sponsored Life Insurance and Short/Long Term Disability Insurance, 401(k) with Match, Parental Leave, Cell Phone and Home Internet Stipends, Paid Vacation, Sick Leave, and Holidays, Pet Insurance, Flexible Spending Accounts, and other optional benefit coverages.