Convention Programming Manager

$102,000 - $120,650/Yr

The Pokemon Company International - Bellevue, WA

Full-time - Mid Level

Hybrid - Bellevue, WA

Merchant Wholesalers, Durable Goods

About the position

The Convention Programming Manager at The Pokémon Company International is responsible for overseeing session-style programming at global Pokémon events. This includes planning and executing panel discussions, keynotes, autographs, and meet-and-greet sessions to enhance the fan experience. The role involves collaboration with various stakeholders to ensure the programming aligns with the company's vision and goals, as well as managing logistics and talent acquisition for events.

Responsibilities

• Plan and execute session style programming for global Pokémon events.
• Create and develop pitches/presentations for programming to present to managers, executives, and external partners.
• Identify and acquire talent/speakers from internal and external brand ecosystems.
• Communicate and work with internal stakeholders to reflect the company's vision in programming.
• Work with vendors and talent/speakers to ensure effective communication of vision and goals.
• Research and benchmark other conventions for new ideas and improvements in programming.
• Manage schedules for talents/speakers and lead rehearsals.
• Draft customer-facing titles and descriptions for sessions/programs and obtain stakeholder approval.
• Create session schedules by balancing stakeholder constraints.
• Collaborate with the Convention Operations Manager on logistics for programming execution.
• Work with the Project Management team to ensure timelines are met for programming ideas.
• Oversee execution during relevant events and support the Manager in creating post-event reports.

Requirements

• 5 years of experience in events, entertainment, or gaming industries.
• Bachelor's degree required.
• Extensive knowledge in creating panel discussions and conference-style programs.
• Experience with talent/speaker management for conferences or conventions.
• Ability to manage multiple sessions for multiple events simultaneously.
• Working knowledge of Anime/Comic/Gaming conventions and understanding of B2C and fan conventions.
• Possess a Marketing and PR perspective from professional experience.
• Strong understanding of the Pokémon brand and its fan base.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft tools (Outlook, PowerPoint, Excel, Word, etc.).
• Ability to work under pressure and challenging timelines.
• Team player with the ability to work with various groups across the organization.

Nice-to-haves

• Ability to understand Japanese (read, write, and/or speak) is a plus.

Benefits

• 401(k) matching
• Commuter assistance
• Family leave
• Gym membership
• Life insurance
• Relocation assistance