Meeting and Event Specialist

This role supports the planning and execution of high-quality meetings and events across Markel, covering logistics, budgeting, vendor coordination, onsite delivery, and post-event reporting. It also supports the promotional items program and the Swoogo event platform. The specialist ensures precision and follow-through at every stage, from vendor quotes to expense reconciliation, and contributes to delivering memorable experiences that reflect the Markel Style.

Responsibilities

• Provide comprehensive coordination across all phases of event delivery: planning, logistics, onsite setup, production, and post-event closeout with consistent, reliable follow-through on every task and deadline.
• Serve as dedicated support resource for the team through administrative tasks to enable seamless event operations and team success.
• Assist with RFPs, review event orders, track budgets, and reconcile expenses accurately.
• Coordinate with vendors to ensure services and materials are professional and reflect Markel’s high standards.
• Create branded event materials and signage to enhance guest experience.
• Use Swoogo event platform to manage event registration, communications, and event websites.
• Prepare nametags, gifts, gift bags, seating charts, event communications and registration lists with a high degree of accuracy, proofreading all materials prior to distribution.
• Maintain complete event documentation and post-event follow-up to ensure transparency and accountability.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.
• Research new event possibilities, propose creative approaches, and identify cost-saving opportunities.
• Participate in ongoing learning opportunities, such as industry webinars and professional certifications, to support a culture of excellence.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree required; Hospitality Management or Marketing preferred.
• 3+ years of corporate meeting and event planning experience required.
• Demonstrated track record of meeting deadlines and managing multiple concurrent projects.
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, energetic, and solution-driven, with a sharp eye for proofreading.
• Proficient in Office 365, MS Teams, SharePoint, WebEx; Swoogo experience preferred.
• Ability to travel overnight and work occasional evening or weekend hours as required.
• Richmond, VA-based (no relocation).
• English required.
• US Work Authorization required. Markel does not provide visa sponsorship for this position, now or in the future.

Nice to have

• Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) designation a plus.
• Proficient in Office 365, MS Teams, SharePoint, WebEx; Swoogo experience preferred.

Benefits

• All full-time employees have the option to select from multiple health, dental and vision insurance plan options and optional life, disability, and AD&D insurance.
• We also offer a 401(k) with employer match contributions, an Employee Stock Purchase Plan, PTO, corporate holidays and floating holidays, parental leave.