Events Director

About the role

We are a fast-paced, team-oriented, and collaborative group that partners with our clients and engages our local communities. The Events Director will own the strategy and success of market events, driving growth and market presence for our clients and the Business Journal.

Responsibilities

• Identify opportunities for events that support client growth and market presence.
• Plan and strategize Business Journal events, including new events and improving existing ones.
• Make recommendations and partner with local leadership and advertising teams in event planning.
• Serve as an active member of the local management team, advocating for events and overall market success.
• Collaborate with other local managers and department teams throughout the event planning process.
• Provide continuous updates to the Publisher and leadership team regarding event activities.
• Work collaboratively with all departments to ensure event success.
• Manage event budgets, including P&L responsibility in partnership with the sales team.
• Lead and participate in events, which primarily occur weekdays during business hours but may include some evenings.
• Function in a virtual environment, leading and conducting virtual meetings and events (Zoom, Teams, WebEx, etc.).

Event Ownership, Planning & Management

• Prepare detailed budgets and forecasts for event attendance, income, and expenses.
• Gather, compare, and present price quotes for event-related expenses.
• Select sites, caterers, accessories, and other vendors; negotiate and sign contracts.
• Develop detailed timelines for each event and communicate staff and client responsibilities.
• Choreograph and manage event day logistics.
• Partner with the market publisher to select and schedule event speakers, presentations, and sponsor program participants.
• Script sponsor presentations and the main program.
• Manage ticket sales through online registration and oversee attendance lists.
• Develop relationships with outside vendors (hotels, restaurants, caterers, AV companies, florists, etc.) and utilize vendor trades to minimize cash outlay.
• Track trade schedules to ensure dollar-for-dollar contract completion.
• Prepare pre- and post-event promotions through house ads, direct mail, and broadcast emails.
• Assist with proofreading promotional materials, advertising, and event programs to maintain brand integrity.
• Prepare and present post-event analysis, including invoicing approval, expense summaries, RSVPs, attendance lists, and no-shows.

Vendor & Sponsor Management

• Organize and facilitate sponsor meetings as necessary.
• Gather sponsor bios and company promotions for event recognition.
• Ensure sponsor deliverables are addressed throughout the event process.
• Assist the advertising team during the sales process to align events with client needs.
• Provide creative recommendations for sponsors and on-site event activations.

Professional Development

• Participate in all applicable training offered by ACBJ and the business unit.
• Engage in at least one external training opportunity each year, as agreed upon with the Publisher.

Other Duties

All team members should be prepared to assist with any other tasks requested by the Publisher.

Benefits

• Bundled health, dental, and vision plans.
• Programs to support mental health and wellness.
• Generous time-off policy.
• Paid Parental Leave.
• 401K Plan with Employer Match.
• Flexible Spending Accounts (medical and commuter).
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Multiple Employee Dependent Scholarship Programs.
• Medical Infertility Services.
• Corporate discount programs.
• Employee Recognition/Service Awards.
• Lifestyle programs, including incentives for healthy habits.

(Benefits coverage may vary based on employee participation and eligibility.)

Pay

$120,000 - $140,000 base salary range, plus bonus.