The Program Manager will drive high-stakes client event execution and coordinate multi-channel programs for Spotlight clients while optimizing operational processes to support cross-practice agency growth.

Role Overview

What happens when dozens of executive briefing sessions, multiple stream schedules, and a high-stakes industry event all collide on the same day—and half the agenda changes that morning? If your instinct is to build a contingency plan nobody else thought of, and then run it calmly while everyone around you is stressed, keep reading.

As a Program Manager, you will own the end-to-end execution of events and multi-channel strategic programs for Spotlight clients spanning cross-functional practice areas—including Analyst Relations, Influencer Relations, Customer Engagement, and AI-driven Influence strategies.

Key Responsibilities & Competencies

• Program Architecture & Execution: Build operational foundations—briefing schedules, logistics grids, and tracking frameworks—before anyone asks for them, keeping them updated in real time as client priorities shift.

• High-Stakes Live & Virtual Event Management: Manage the on-site and remote execution of large-scale briefing tracks, executive meetings, and group sessions at major industry events with precision.

• Composure & Problem-Solving: Remain decisive and calm when schedules, venues, or stakeholder requirements break with zero notice, communicating swift solutions without dropping details.

• Cross-Functional Stakeholder Alignment: Orchestrate seamless communication across internal Spotlight teams, client-side executives, and external market influencers/analysts to ensure clean handoffs and met commitments.

• Performance Measurement & Reporting: Maintain rigorous tracking systems to turn complex, fast-moving programs into clear, actionable, and credible client impact reports.

• Process Optimization: Treat workflows as living assets—documenting post-program takeaways, refining playbooks, and continuously optimizing operational efficiency.

• Portfolio Expansion: Proactively take on broader strategic scope as opportunities arise, scaling from single-track execution to multi-practice program management.
  

Desired Skills & Qualifications

• 3–6 years of Experience: Proven background in program management, event operations, account services, or marketing operations within an agency, consultancy, or fast-paced corporate environment.

• Event & Project Management Mastery: Demonstrated success running complex programs with firm external deadlines and multiple moving parts.

• Client-Facing Presence: High confidence communicating directly with mid-to-senior level client stakeholders and third-party industry experts—both in writing and in the room.

• Systems & Operational Rigor: High proficiency with project management platforms, shared calendars, and dynamic spreadsheet models (experience with AR/PR tracking platforms is a plus, not a requirement).

• Adaptability & Growth Mindset: A strong desire to broaden scope beyond traditional analyst relations into emerging influence channels and cross-practice strategies.

• Travel Flexibility: Ability and willingness to travel for on-site client event support as dictated by event schedules.

Who You Are

• You get energized by high-stakes deadlines and fast-moving environments.

• You naturally over-communicate to eliminate surprises for clients and teammates.

• You are a trusted operator who always knows where project deliverables and logistics stand.

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We are a fun, smart, growing firm based in Kansas City’s Crossroads neighborhood — and a consistent recipient of the KC Business Journal’s Best Places to Work award. Learn more at spotlight-io.com

Spotlight is an equal opportunity employer. In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.