Event Planning & Performance Head

Position Purpose

This role is responsible for directing the end-to-end planning and delivery performance of events of every scale, ranging from intimate gatherings to major conferences and forums. The Head of Planning & Performance will guide a team in coordinating resources, planning manpower, managing event schedules, and ensuring on-time delivery of key outputs such as post-event reports, surveys, and operating models. The position is central to improving efficiency, consistency, and overall excellence within the events function.

Strategy & Planning

• Work with stakeholders to shape the event management strategy by converting organizational priorities into structured plans with clear goals, measurable outcomes, and linked projects.
• Define project boundaries together with Event Managers so the work remains aligned with business objectives and priorities.
• Build and sustain strong partnerships with vendors, suppliers, and other external partners to secure competitive terms and reliable access to resources.
• Carry out market research and competitor analysis to spot trends, new technologies, and opportunities to improve event execution.

Budget

• Develop and advise on the event portfolio budget so it fits within the annual business plan.
• Track financial results, spot differences from plan, and take corrective steps to improve cost control and strengthen outcomes.
• Lead workforce and resource planning across the department to ensure people, tools, and assets are used effectively.

Event Management

• Own the planning and closeout of the full event lifecycle, including schedules, work breakdowns, timelines, budgets, and risk mitigation plans.
• Create roadmaps and work plans for each event, making responsibilities, dependencies, and stakeholder roles easy to understand.
• Ensure that effective policies, procedures, and communication practices are in place to support smooth internal and external coordination.
• Partner with internal teams to set event goals, KPIs, and success measures.
• Serve as the escalation contact for resolving issues and keeping delivery on track.
• Provide hands-on support during high-demand periods when needed.

Performance Measurement & Reporting

• Set and monitor KPIs to evaluate event performance and its contribution to strategic goals.
• Oversee the preparation of accurate and timely reports covering event progress, financial performance, attendance, and impact.
• Manage post-event surveys, evaluations, and reporting, turning results into actionable recommendations for ongoing improvement.
• Introduce and maintain event management systems and tools that make planning faster, more efficient, and more productive.

Leadership & People Management

• Lead, coach, and develop event planners, coordinators, and support staff to create a motivated and high-performing team.
• Define team priorities and objectives, review performance, and provide regular feedback and coaching.
• Encourage teamwork, ownership, and fresh thinking across the department.

Policies, Processes & Continuous Improvement

• Recommend and implement enhancements to event policies, processes, and controls to improve quality, compliance, and efficiency.
• Champion continuous improvement efforts to strengthen planning methods, reporting structures, and operational practices.

Qualifications

• 8 to 12 years of experience in project management, including at least 5 years in roles with growing managerial responsibility.
• 3 to 5 years of experience in event management.
• Strong proficiency with event management software and related tools.