Strategic Operations Manager, Central Services

Strategic Operations Manager, Central Services

This role is hybrid with a combination of working from home, traveling, and some commuting to an office. Applicants must be based in/near a major PRA city like Chicago, New York, San Francisco, Denver, Orlando, Fort Lauderdale, Dallas, Los Angeles, San Diego, Miami, Seattle, etc. to be considered for this role.

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.

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

The Strategic Operations Manager is a critical component of the Opportunity Team and is responsible for the logistical management and operational execution of client events. The Strategic Operations Manager serves as the primary contact for the client during the pre-planning and operation phases of their event and is a liaison with PRA's supplier-partners. The Strategic Operations Manager is an on-site Ambassador of the PRA brand.

The Strategic Operations Manager is not associated with a particular PRA destination and will be deployed across the system to support regional teams in the planning and/or operation of their events as needed. This role may work in collaboration to supplement local teams or may own program development and operation in its entirety. This role will travel significantly across the PRA system and will work remotely in between trips.

Primary Responsibilities:

Will vary depending on level of support and project ownership required

• Program Development and Planning
  
  
  
  • Assist Experience Designers with operational and logistical components of program development
  
  
  • Thoroughly review program details with cross-functional partners in Sales and Experience Design in preparation for turnover to Event Production
  
  
  • Serve as primary client contact throughout planning and operation of the event
  
  
  • Manage program changes with suppliers and internal partners during planning and on-site operation
  
  
  • Provide program enhancement options for our clients
  
  
  
  


• Supplier and Staff Management:
  
  
  
  • Negotiate supplier contract terms and pricing including, but not limited to service expectations, guarantees, cancellation policies, billing, etc.
  
  
  • Assign field staff to projects based on availability and specific skill sets required
  
  
  • Prepare, distribute and review relevant program information and provide direction for field staff
  
  
  • Process and manage field staff compensation including timesheets, expense reports, and pay rate
  
  
  
  


• Program Execution:
  
  
  
  • Align with hotel and venue partners to ensure seamless coordination throughout program operation
  
  
  • Conduct pre-con meetings with client/hotel to review all program details as confirmed
  
  
  • Ensure cross-functional Sales partners are fully informed of all program changes, taking prompt corrective action and providing alternatives as necessary
  
  
  • Manage all components of on-site program operation
  
  
  
  


• Financials:
  
  
  
  • Drive program profitability ensuring Gross Profitability targets are met
  
  
  • Manage submission and receipt of client program deposits as per contract terms throughout lifecycle of the program
  
  
  • Timely completion of post-operation Program Closeout process as per PRA protocol
  
  
  
  

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree, or equivalent relevant experience


• 5 years of experience in overseeing the execution of corporate meetings, client events, and other complex programs. DMC, corporate incentive travel, hospitality or related experience highly preferred


• Ability to manage operations functions and effectively supervise and direct Field staff


• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with a diverse group of clients, supplier/partners, coworkers, and employees


• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret client proposal requirements, contracts, financial reports, and other legal documents


• Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from clients, supplier partners, and hoteliers.


• Ability to multitask and work on multiple programs with different deadlines


• Must be able to work well with all levels of management and staff, hoteliers and venue staff, clients and supplier/partner


• Working knowledge of attractions, hotels, parks, venues and supplier/partners in the local area and ability to locate and vet new venues and supplier/partners


• Must be able to work flexible hours including weekends, evenings and holidays


• Significant travel required across the PRA system – approximately 75-80%

Salary: $70,000-$80,000

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.

Ready to discover where next begins?

PRA offers you room to grow, create, and step confidently into your next era.

When you join PRA, you'll have the opportunity for a creative, energetic, and inspiring career in sales, creative, operations, production and more.

and create your next.

Our Services

Activations * Experiential Marketing * Event Strategy * Experience Design * Interactive Installations * Themed Events & Décor * Adventures & Excursions * Dining & Culinary Experiences * Entertainment & Performances * ESG & Social Impact Integration * Team Building & CSR * Transportation & Logistics * Meeting Management * AV Management * Content & Messaging * Content Design & Production * Demo Experiences * Theatrical Design & Delivery