EVENT MANAGER

Event Manager

Position Title: Event Manager Department: Retail & Community Engagement Affiliate: Popcorn for the People FLSA Status: Exempt/Non-Exempt (Based on Classification) Reports To: Director of Operations or Designee

Position Summary

The Event Manager is responsible for planning, coordinating, and executing community events, festivals, vendor opportunities, and promotional activities that support Popcorn for the People's mission, brand awareness, and revenue growth. This role ensures events are well-organized, properly staffed, fully stocked, and successfully executed while creating positive customer experiences and meaningful employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

The Event Manager serves as the primary point of contact for event logistics, staff coordination, inventory planning, and onsite event operations.

Essential Functions

Event Planning & Coordination

• Coordinate and maintain relationships with community partners, vendors, event organizers, and supportive organizations.
• Plan and manage participation in seasonal, monthly, and annual festivals, community events, and promotional activities.
• Evaluate event opportunities and recommend strategies to maximize attendance, sales, and community engagement.
• Ensure all event details, logistics, permits, inventory, staffing, and equipment needs are finalized prior to the event date.
• Communicate event expectations, schedules, and responsibilities to all participating staff.

Event Operations

• Oversee event setup, execution, and breakdown activities.
• Ensure events are fully stocked with products, marketing materials, and required equipment.
• Troubleshoot operational issues and resolve challenges during events in a timely and professional manner.
• Monitor event performance and identify opportunities for continuous improvement.
• Represent Popcorn for the People in a professional manner and serve as a brand ambassador within the community.

Staff Training & Leadership

• Train employees and support staff on the organization's mission, values, and customer service expectations.
• Provide instruction on event setup, product merchandising, inventory management, sales techniques, and Point-of-Sale (POS) systems.
• Coordinate event schedules and staffing assignments.
• Provide coaching and support to staff during events to ensure a positive customer experience.

Inventory & Delivery Management

• Coordinate inventory needs with the production facility to ensure adequate product availability.
• Track inventory levels before and after events.
• Deliver products to vendors, retail partners, and event locations as needed.
• Ensure merchandise is transported, handled, and displayed in accordance with company standards.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Hospitality, Event Management, Marketing, Business Administration, or a related field preferred.
• Two or more years of experience coordinating events, community outreach activities, retail operations, or related customer-facing work preferred.
• Experience supervising staff or volunteers preferred.

Licenses & Certifications

• Valid driver's license and acceptable driving record required.
• Ability to travel locally and transport products and materials to event locations.

Core Competencies

Event Planning & Organization

Ability to manage multiple events, deadlines, logistics, and priorities while maintaining attention to detail.

Customer Service

Demonstrates a commitment to delivering exceptional customer experiences and promoting the organization's mission.

Communication

Effectively communicates with staff, vendors, community partners, and customers in both verbal and written formats.

Leadership & Team Development

Provides direction, coaching, and support to event staff and team members while fostering an inclusive and positive work environment.

Problem Solving

Identifies challenges proactively and implements practical solutions during event planning and execution.

Time Management

Prioritizes responsibilities and effectively manages competing demands in a fast-paced environment.

Adaptability

Adjusts quickly to changing event requirements, schedules, customer needs, and operational demands.

Professionalism

Represents the organization positively and upholds organizational values at all times.

Physical Requirements & Work Environment

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, lift, and move throughout event locations for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to load, unload, transport, and set up event equipment and merchandise.
• Frequent local travel to event venues, vendor locations, and community partners.
• Ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed to support event schedules.
• Work is performed in both indoor and outdoor environments, including community festivals, retail settings, and special events.

Additional Information

This position plays a critical role in advancing Popcorn for the People's mission by creating successful community engagement opportunities that increase awareness, generate revenue, and support meaningful employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

Popcorn for the People is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where individuals of all abilities can thrive.