Event & Partnership Specialist

About the Little Village Chamber of Commerce Since 1989, the Little Village Chamber of Commerce (LVCC) has represented the interests of local businesses and the broader bilingual business community throughout Chicago. Our mission is to support, promote, and protect business owners through programs, services, and initiatives that drive sustainable economic growth while celebrating the vibrant cultural identity of Little Village ("La Villita"). Position Overview The Events & Partnerships Specialist is responsible for planning, coordinating, and executing LVCC's signature events and community activations. This role serves as the primary point of contact for event logistics, partnership development, sponsorship cultivation, volunteer coordination, and on-site event management. The Events & Partnerships Specialist will represent the Chamber and SSA #25 throughout the community, cultivate relationships with businesses and stakeholders, and support partnership and sponsorship efforts that strengthen LVCC programming and impact. This position also supports and coordinates events and initiatives associated with Special Service Area (SSA) #25. Key Responsibilities Event Planning & Execution Lead planning and execution of LVCC signature events, including Golf Fiesta, the 26th Street Mexican Independence Day Parade & VIP Breakfast, Holiday Posada & Toy Drive, business networking events, and other special initiatives. Coordinate and support events, activations, and programming associated with Special Service Area (SSA) #25. Develop event timelines, production schedules, budgets, and work plans. Coordinate all event logistics, including venue management, permits, vendors, entertainment, catering, transportation, registration, signage, and audiovisual needs. Manage event setup, on-site operations, and post-event breakdown. Recruit, train, and coordinate volunteers and event support staff. Ensure events are executed on time, within budget, and aligned with organizational goals. Partnerships & Sponsorship Development Build and maintain relationships with sponsors, business owners, community organizations, elected officials, and strategic partners. Represent LVCC and SSA #25 at community meetings, networking events, business functions, and partner gatherings to strengthen relationships and increase visibility for the organization. Identify, cultivate, solicit, and secure partnership and sponsorship opportunities for LVCC and SSA #25 events and initiatives. Manage partner and sponsor communications and ensure fulfillment of benefits and recognition opportunities. Track partnership and sponsorship commitments, agreements, and deliverables. Support fundraising and revenue-generating efforts related to events and organizational programming. Marketing & Community Engagement Collaborate with the marketing team to develop promotional strategies and event communications. Support outreach efforts to increase event attendance, sponsor participation, and community engagement. Assist with the development of event materials, presentations, signage, and sponsor collateral. Budgeting & Reporting Track event budgets, invoices, contracts, and expenses. Assist with revenue tracking related to sponsorships, ticket sales, and fundraising activities. Conduct post-event evaluations and prepare reports on attendance, outcomes, sponsorship fulfillment, and recommendations for future improvements. Additional Responsibilities Collaborate with staff, consultants, vendors, volunteers, and community partners to support organizational goals. Maintain accurate records related to events, sponsors, partnerships, and community engagement activities. Perform other duties as assigned to support the mission and operations of the Little Village Chamber of Commerce. Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Event Management, Hospitality, Communications, Business, Marketing, or a related field preferred. Minimum 4-6 years of professional experience in event planning, partnership development, sponsorship development, fundraising, community engagement, or a related field. Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish, both written and verbal, required. Demonstrated experience coordinating events, managing multiple projects, and meeting deadlines. Experience developing partnerships, securing sponsorships, fundraising, or business development preferred. Strong interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills. Proficiency with Google Workspace, event registration platforms, CRM systems, and project management tools. Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with internal and external partners. Knowledge of the Little Village community and experience working with small businesses, chambers of commerce, business associations, or community-based organizations strongly preferred. Compensation Salary range: $60,000-$70,000 annually, based on experience. Eligible for commission on sponsorship revenue generated Schedule & Work Environment Full-time, 40 hours per week. Evening and weekend availability required during event periods. In-person presence in Little Village is essential. Ability to lift up to 25 pounds and assist with event setup and breakdown as needed. Benefits Health insurance 401(k) with employer match Paid vacation and holidays Professional development opportunities #J-18808-Ljbffr Little Village