Description

Job Purpose:
The Manager, Sponsorship & Event Operations is a key contributor to implementing CGA’s meetings and event strategies, developing and integrating sponsor deliverables, building external relationships and supporting cross-departmental initiatives.

 This individual is responsible for developing and implementing the Association's sponsorship plans to generate revenue and build strong, long-term relationships with corporate partners. This role is also responsible for execution and logistical management of Association events, including the annual conference, regional meetings, and board-related events.

Duties and responsibilities:  

Sponsorship Sales and Management:

• Develop and execute a comprehensive sponsorship and exhibit sales strategies to exceed revenue goals.
• Research and identify potential corporate sponsors and exhibitors, using networking, cold-calling, and by activating industry alliances.
• Create and customize annual agreements with compelling benefits and activation ideas to meet the needs of various partners.
• Cultivate and maintain strong, lasting relationships with sponsors and exhibitors to ensure long-term collaboration.
• Oversee the tracking, servicing and coordination of all sponsorship benefits and ensure a high level of satisfaction for partners.
• Manage the print and digital advertising functions including maintaining accurate member database/contact information, and managing insertion orders, invoicing, ad material trafficking and payment.
• Track all sponsorship activity and provide regular forecast reports to the leadership team.
• Develop, distribute and collect evaluation surveys and other forms of feedback to determine success in achieving the event goals.
• Represent the Association by attending various industry events and tradeshows. 

Event Planning and Execution:

• Collaborate with the Executive Director to define each event's objectives, project scope, and delivery/format.
• Assist in sourcing, evaluating, and negotiating contracts with venues, caterers, audio visual companies, and/or other vendors as appropriate.
• Manage various event logistics, including on-site event activities. Provide a high level of customer service to attendees and take initiative to resolve issues as they arise.

Qualifications:

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (e.g., hospitality, marketing, business administration).
• A minimum of 3-5 years of progressive experience in event management, with a proven track record of successful sponsorship and sales.
• CMP certification or interest in obtaining this certification is strongly preferred.
• Experience in a trade association or non-profit environment. 

Required Skills and Attributes:

• Professional, outgoing & energetic personality and strong background in delivering outstanding customer service.
• Exceptional organizational skills and exquisite attention to detail including the ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks and deadlines simultaneously.
• A savvy communicator, with excellent interpersonal skills. Excellent written and verbal skills, including strong ability to communicate with a variety of audiences including Association members, staff, and vendors.
• Proven sales abilities and a goal-oriented mindset.
• Skill in project management, including event planning and meeting deadlines.
• Creative problem-solving and the ability to remain calm under pressure.
• Flexibility and willingness to work evenings and weekends as required by events.
• Experience working with consumer brands a plus. 

Working Conditions:

Work is generally performed in an office environment in downtown Sacramento with a flexible work from home option following completion of 90-day performance evaluation. Occasional overnight travel to CGA/CGAEF events throughout California (5%).

The California Grocers Association provides medical, dental, and vison insurance for employees and eligible dependents, and life insurance and long-term disability insurance for the employee. CGA also provides eligible employees with a generous 401(k) and profit-sharing program along with a cell phone stipend, paid sick, vacation and holiday time. Parking is provided.  Various additional benefits are offered such as FSA (Flexible Spending Account)/Dependent Care, Accident, Cancer, and Short-Term Disability coverage, and legal services access.  

The position is full-time, exempt. The salary range is $70,000 to $80,000 annually commensurate with experience and credentials.

The information provided in this description is designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications required of employees in this job.

Physical Requirements:

Employee may experience the following physical demands for extended periods of time:

• View computer monitors.
• Sitting at a desk.
• Standing for CGA events.
• Occasional overnight travel (including driving and flying) to other locations within California, to support CGA events.

Direct Reports:

This position does not supervise any direct reports.