Special Events Manager / Atlanta, GA (Onsite),6 Months Contract

Special Events Manager

The Special Events Manager is responsible for planning, coordinating, and executing a wide range of events and projects that support client priorities. The incumbent will coordinate, implement, and execute all facets of Atlanta Public Schools (Client) special events, including, but not limited to, the Back to School BASH, Silver Star Retirement Luncheon, Client Student Recognition Program, and other projects and events as assigned. As an ambassador for Client, the Special Events Manager is a vital member of the Chief of Staff Division who will work closely with the Coordinator of Special Projects and other departments to plan and execute special events by building relationships with students, parents, alumni, partners, and key stakeholders. The incumbent will foster these relationships through event implementation, personal communication, relationship development, timely outreach, and excellent volunteer coordination. This position requires the incumbent to work nights and weekends leading up to and including the day of the special events.

Essential Duties:

• Under the direction of the Coordinator of Special Projects, sets event goals and budgets for each fiscal year
• Works with supervisor and division leaders to plan large and small cultivation gatherings, meetings, and receptions
• Coordinates and maintains the calendar of events, provides checklists and timelines per event and plans, and manages short term and long-term projects
• Coordinates with the Office of Communications, as well as other departments, for all event collateral, marketing needs (invitations, graphic designs, social media, and website content), and equipment
• Maintains, builds positive relationships, and supervises with all volunteers
• Executes the logistics, plans, and action steps for all events, including dcor and catering
• Provides the highest level of customer service while delivering high-quality coordination for multiple, sometimes concurrent or overlapping, corporate and public events of all sizes
• Works collaboratively with clients and department staff to design, specify, plan and coordinate event needs
• Acts as the primary contact before, during, and after assigned events
• Maintains and organizes the office's event storage room and implements an event inventory tracking process
• Conducts pre-event site/venue tours and recommends appropriate venue options based on the scope and specifications of the event
• Performs other duties as assigned

Minimum Requirements:

• Education: Bachelor's degree in business, hospitality marketing or similar field, or an equivalent combination of education/training or additional work experience
• Certification/License: Valid Georgia driver's license and availability of private transportation Certified Meeting Professional Certification a plus
• Work Experience: 5 years of successful experience in event planning, coordinating, and conducting special events, including non-professional experience and/or volunteer work Experience in budget planning and financial management

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Strong communication skills able to write clearly, follow written directions, and speak effectively in front of a wide range of people
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment that is fast-paced with many competing priorities and deadlines
• Ability to think critically and creatively under high-stress conditions
• Must be extremely detail-oriented, have excellent organizational and multitasking skills, have a passion for events, and a dedication to creating a high-quality guest experience
• Possess strong analytical aptitude, problem-solving skills, and time management skills
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite (i.e., Excel, PowerPoint, and Word), collaboration tools (Google Drive, Docs, and Sheets), and Event Management System (EMS)
• Knowledge of industry trends in event management