Events & Sponsorship Engagement Manager

Job Opening: Events & Sponsorship Engagement Manager Events & Sponsorship Engagement Manager Job Description IFA is seeking a highly organized, process-driven, and results-oriented professional to serve as Manager, Events & Sponsorship Engagement. This role will report to the Senior Director, Sponsorship and Events and is responsible for owning the execution, systems, and operational workflows that support IFA’s events and sponsorship strategy. This individual will play a critical role in ensuring seamless coordination across Sales, Marketing, Finance, and Events, while driving efficiency, accountability, and a high-quality sponsor and exhibitor experience. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, technologically proficient, and thrives in a fast-paced, revenue-focused environment. Responsibilities Operational Ownership & Execution Own end-to-end execution of sponsorship and exhibitor operations across all events, ensuring seamless delivery from contract through post-event reportingOversee event logistics related to sponsors and exhibitors, including pre-event planning, on-site execution, and post-event follow-upCollaborate on development and ongoing management of the event floor plan, ensuring alignment with inventory, and exhibitor needsServe as on-site lead for sponsor and exhibitor needs, troubleshooting issues and ensuring a high-quality experience Revenue Operations & Sales SupportPartner with sales leadership to track pipeline, pacing, and inventory utilization within SalesforceSupport sales team with inventory tracking, prospect insights, and packaging alignment to maximize revenue opportunitiesOwn and manage the renewal process for prior-year sponsors and exhibitors, including proactive outreach, tracking, and coordination with sales to drive retention and early commitmentsMaintain and manage renewal pipeline, ensuring timely follow-up and accurate forecasting Process Design & Systems Management Design, implement, and continuously improve scalable processes for sponsorship fulfillment, exhibitor management, and event executionEnsure alignment and data integrity across CRM, finance, and registration systemsManage workflows and timelines using project management tools such as Monday.com Sponsor & Exhibitor Deliverables Own and manage sponsor and exhibitor deliverables across all events, ensuring all contractual benefits are executed accurately and on timeMaintain and manage a centralized deliverables tracker to ensure accountability across teamsCoordinate with marketing and events teams to ensure proper recognition, branding, and fulfillmentWork directly with Decorator for execution of sponsorship deliverables Preferred Vendor (PV) Program SupportOversee execution and tracking of Preferred Vendor program benefits across events and marketing channelsEnsure all PV commitments (content, activations, branding, etc.) are fulfilledSupport ongoing engagement and operational coordination of PV partners Financial Coordination & Billing OversightServe as liaison between Sales and Finance for invoicing, payment tracking, and collections coordinationEnsure contracts, invoices, and deliverables are alignedMonitor accounts receivable status and proactively flag risks Cross-Functional LeadershipAct as primary liaison between Sales, Marketing, Finance, and Events teams to ensure alignment on timelines, deliverables, and prioritiesAssist with internal planning and execution meetings related to sponsorships and event readinessIdentify and resolve operational inefficiencies across departments Data, Reporting & InsightsDevelop and deliver post-event reports analyzing sponsorship and exhibitor performance, including revenue, engagement, and retentionTrack key metrics and provide insights to help improve future sales strategy and event executionMaintain accurate databases and reporting for sponsors, exhibitors, and event performance Vendor & Resource Management Coordinate with external vendors (decorator, registration, etc.) to ensure alignment with sponsor and exhibitor needsWork closely with the general service contractor (decorator) to manage floor plan design, updates, and on-site execution, ensuring accuracy, optimization of space, and alignment with sponsorship inventory and sales prioritiesPartner with sales team on booth placement, inventory adjustments, and real-time floor plan updates to maximize revenue opportunitiesAssist in managing exhibitor communications, service kits, and ordering processes in coordination with the decorator Required Qualifications:4–7+ years of experience in events, sponsorship, sales operationsStrong proficiency in CRM systems (Salesforce preferred) and project management toolsDemonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environmentStrong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skillsExcellent communication and cross-functional collaboration abilitiesExperience working in a revenue-driven environment (events, media, sponsorship, or association preferred) Key Facts About this Role:This position follows a hybrid work model, with employees expected to work from our Washington, DC headquarters at least two days per week and remotely for the remainder of the week.Salary range is between 75 and 85k, depending on experience.Our benefits package is designed to support you both professionally and personally. We offer comprehensive health coverage, generous paid time off, and competitive retirement plans to help you plan for the future. With added perks that promote work-life balance and overall well-being, we make sure you’re set up to thrive—at work and beyond. To apply, please email your cover letter and resume to careers@franchise.org. Advertisement