Event Planning Internship, Christkindlmarket Chicago (Start Date: Immediate)

Note to applicants:

Interns for the Christkindlmarket (GAE LLC) will need to work out of the GACC Midwest office in downtown Chicago. As such, applicants must either currently reside in the Chicago area or be available for relocation before the start date of the internship.

Compensation: $3000/month
Duration: 9-12 months, Full-time

Who we are:    
The mission of the German American Chamber of Commerce of the Midwest (GACC Midwest) is to promote and assist in the expansion of bilateral trade and investment between Germany and the United States. All internships offer the opportunity to gain work experience in a truly bilingual and bicultural environment, with support from colleagues that can help speed the learning curve of understanding intercultural differences and nuances.   

The Christkindlmarket Chicago is the most authentic traditional holiday market of its kind outside of Europe, offering a unique shopping experience, family-friendly events & intercultural activities. It brings a cherished German and European tradition with international flair and local charm to Chicago. Chicago's Christkindlmarket was first conceptualized in 1995. This year, the Christkindlmarket Chicago is celebrating its 30 th Anniversary.

What does this internship entail?

• Support all aspects of organizing one of the world's largest holiday markets outside of Germany on-site and virtually
• Assist with activities related to event planning and coordination, for example the logistics behind the scenes, organizing entertainment for the market, and performing important administrative tasks
• Sponsorship research, outreach and acquisition  
• On-site market support during the months of November and December, including interacting with visitors, assisting with the support of vendors needs, and helping to prepare the venue for dining experiences and performances 
• Interact with visitors and customers in person and virtually

Who are we looking for?

• Recent graduate, ideally with first work experience
• High-level proficiency in the English language, German language skills are of advantage but not necessary
• Good knowledge of Microsoft Office programs (Word, Excel, Power Point)
• Newsletter writing and basic website maintenance knowledge of advantage
• Strong research, communication, and organizational skills (verbal and written)
• Strong interest in full-cycle event planning and behind the scenes logistics
• Customer service skills

Why join German American Events LLC (GAE)?

Our organization strives to provide our interns with an environment that allows them to succeed in every aspect of their role. Our interns have the opportunity to gain the ability to put new things into practice and network and meet key members in our extensive membership base while learning more about German-American business efforts happening day in and day out.

With a beautiful state-of-the-art office space in the heart of the city overlooking Millennium Park, interns are able to easily navigate throughout Downtown Chicago and experience the rich culture the city has to offer – such as complimentary German lessons offered by the Goethe Institute specifically for our employees. Within our office building, all GAE team members have access to the fitness center with free classes being offered regularly as well as general community events as planned by the building staff.