Event Producer

ABOUT ESP PRESENTS

ESP Presents is a full-service event production company specializing in the strategy, design, and execution of high-impact events and brand experiences. We proudly partner with nonprofits, foundations, creative agencies, lifestyle brands, and mission-driven organizations to produce thoughtful, high-caliber experiences that inspire connection and create meaningful impact. We bring together the right partners, manage every detail, and make the process seamless for our clients. Every decision we make is grounded in experience, guided by strategy, and driven by purpose.

Since launching in 2014, we’ve partnered with hundreds of individuals and organizations, produced thousands of events, and helped our clients raise more than $25 million in support of important causes. We are known for our strategic approach, attention to detail, strong relationships, and ability to execute seamlessly at the highest level. We are based in Chicago and work with clients nationwide.

WHY ESP PRESENTS

At ESP Presents, we believe exceptional events are built through thoughtful strategy, meaningful relationships, and meticulous execution. We are passionate about creating experiences that not only look beautiful, but also drive connection, engagement, and impact. Our team values professionalism, creativity, collaboration, and care — both for our clients and for one another.

If you are a highly capable producer who thrives in dynamic environments and enjoys working alongside influential leaders, mission-driven organizations, and exceptional clients, we’d love to hear from you.

POSITION OVERVIEW

ESP Presents is seeking an experienced and highly self-sufficient Event Producer to lead the end-to-end planning and execution of complex events and experiential programs. This role is ideal for a strategic, polished producer who thrives in fast-paced environments, takes full ownership of their work, and can confidently manage projects from concept through completion with minimal oversight, while also collaborating effectively as a trusted, supportive, and team-oriented partner within ESP Presents and across client relationships.

The ideal candidate is both strategic and execution-focused, bringing strong client management skills, a high level of service, emotional intelligence, and the ability to anticipate needs, solve problems, and deliver exceptional experiences independently. This role requires executive presence, professionalism, and confidence navigating high-profile, high-touch environments involving senior executives, philanthropists, board members, sponsors, celebrities, and major donors.

Strong preference will be given to candidates with experience producing fundraising events, galas, and donor engagement experiences within the nonprofit sector, including leadership of host committees and direct interaction with boards, sponsors, and high-net-worth stakeholders.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Own the Full Event Lifecycle: Lead all phases of event production including concept development, budgeting, planning, execution, and post-event wrap-up
• Client & Stakeholder Leadership: Serve as the primary point of contact for clients and key stakeholders; build trust, manage expectations, provide strategic guidance and maintain strong relationships through the process
• Project Management: Develop and manage detailed timelines, budgets, production plans, and event documentation to ensure seamless execution across multiple projects simultaneously
• Non-Profit & Donor Engagement: Support fundraising and donor-focused events, including galas and mission-driven experiences. Collaborate with boards, host committees, sponsors, and volunteer leadership to ensure thoughtful stakeholder engagement and a successful guest experience.
• Vendor & Partner Management: Source, negotiate, and manage vendors, venues, creative partners, and internal teams while maintaining quality standards and budget expectations
• On-Site Leadership: Lead on-site execution with confidence and professionalism; troubleshoot in real time, anticipate needs and ensure an exceptional experience for all clients, guests, and stakeholders 
• Creative & Strategic Input: Collaborate with internal teams on creative direction, event design, and experiential strategy
• Financial Oversight: Build and manage budgets, track expenses, reconcile costs and ensure projects remain financially successful and operationally efficient
• Quality Control: Maintain highest standard of ESP Presents excellence across all elements of production, ensuring alignment with client goals and brand standards

QUALIFICATIONS

• 7+ years of experience in event planning, production, experiential marketing, or related
• Bachelor’s degree in Event Management, Business, Communications, Marketing, or related
• Exceptional interpersonal judgment, communication skills, and self-awareness; able to navigate complex personalities and high-pressure situations with discretion and confidence
• Strong client-facing presence with excellent communication and presentation skills
• Proven ability to independently manage and execute large-scale projects from start to finish
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment
• Deep understanding of production logistics, best practices, trends, vendor management, and budgeting
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and proactive problem solver
• Comfortable working both independently and collaboratively within a team
• Willingness to travel and work non-traditional hours as required by event schedules
• PREFERRED: someone with working experience in the non-profit space - working with a board, high level donors and sponsors and/or working with OneCause or other mobile bidding software

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

• A self-starter who takes initiative, operates with accountability, and requires minimal direction
• A strategic thinker who can balance big-picture vision with flawless execution
• A polished and professional communicator who builds trust quickly and represents ESP Presents with confidence and discretion
• Someone with strong emotional intelligence and the ability to navigate complex personalities and high-pressure environments with grace
• A calm, solutions-oriented leader who thrives under pressure
• Someone who is passionate about creating impactful, memorable programs
• A collaborative team player who values relationships and approaches challenges with positivity and professionalism

Salary range: $70,000-$85,000 based on experience

To apply, please submit a resume and cover letter explaining your fit for the position.