Event Manager

KENTUCKY DERBY FESTIVALPOSITION DESCRIPTIONJOB TITLE: Event ManagerFLSA STATUS: ExemptREPORTS TO: VP, Events

To be considered for an interview, please make sure your application is full in line with the job specs as found below.
GENERAL SUMMARY:The Event Manager plays a vital role in our Events Team, overseeing and organizing KDF events. Their focus is on ensuring each event is successful and cost-efficient, while carefully managing budgets and schedules. Essentially, the event manager functions as a project manager, requiring motivation, attention to detail, and strong organizational abilities. The candidate must excel at multitasking, possess excellent communication skills, and be comfortable leading groups or meetings of medium to large size. Working independently, this full-time role reports directly to the Vice President of Events.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND TASKS:Manage the planning and execution of designated Derby Festival events, aiming to maximize revenue and reduce production costs.Recommend additional revenue opportunities through marketable events and/or promotions within existing eventsPrepare budgets for assigned KDF eventsPrepare event planning guides and status reports as neededCoordinate service and equipment needs in conjunction with the Director of EventsCoordinate event committee meetings and work alongside Event ChairsWork with outside organizations (contract events) in coordinating their participation in the Festival’s scheduleDetermine volunteer needs and develop committee assignments and structureAssist the Sponsorship Sales Team in securing/renewing sponsors and ensuring sponsor interests are met.Assist in publicizing Festival events as neededAssist in the maintenance and coordination of Festival event equipment and signageAssignments designated by the Vice President of Events, Director of Production, or President & CEO
SOFT SKILLSSelf-motivated, passionate, and driven to succeedActive listener offers assistance and support to co-workers and works cooperatively in group situationsWorks well independently but also thrives in a team environment, sharing ideas and working collaborativelyStrong organizational skillsCan juggle multiple tasks, identify appropriate priorities, meet deadlines, etc.Able to adapt to change and willing to learn new skills
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONSA combination of education and experience may be substituted when proficiency is demonstrated.Superior oral communications skillsKnowledge of the Kentucky Derby Festival and its role in the Louisville communityProven experience as an event managerSkilled in project managementKnowledge of KPIs and marketing techniques for event managementComputer savvy; proficient in MS OfficeOutstanding communication and negotiation abilityExcellent organizational skillsExceptional at problem-solvingAbility to build relationships with staff, board, and volunteers at all levels of the organizationA strong team player with excellent judgment, resourcefulness, and creativityMust be able to work with deadlinesMust maintain a valid driver's licenseAbility to drive a 24’ box truckComputer proficiency in Microsoft Teams, Microsoft Office Suite, ZoomAbility to lift or move 50 pounds
SPECIALIZED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGEThe incumbent must have computer skills. Experience with the following types of software and/or Windows-based applications is preferred: word processing, Internet, e-mail, Microsoft Office, Adobe Suite, social media platforms, and content management systems.
PHYSICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL DEMANDSThis work is performed in a hybrid setting as well as various outside venues. Work can be stressful and pressured by deadlines. May be required to drive at night or in inclement weather from time to time. Must be accessible outside of normal business hours.Reasonable accommodations may be provided for those who are able to perform the essential duties of the job.Sitting for long periods of time at a desk.  Constantly looking at a computer screen. Must be able to see, hear, and speak. Movements are frequently required using the wrists, hands, and/or fingers.
Education/ExperienceAssociate or Bachelor's (Preferred)Event Management: 3 years (Preferred)
Additional InformationStarting salary range begins at $40,000, commensurate with experience
BenefitsHealth Insurance401(k)Flexible SchedulePaid Holidays About the Kentucky Derby FestivalWe stretched the famous "two minutes" into a month-long legendary party. The Kentucky DerbyThe Festival remains the largest and most extravagant community celebration of its kind and a proud winner of the International Festivals & Events Association award for Best Overall Festival seven times. It brings fun, excitement, international recognition, and an unparalleled spirit to Louisville and the Commonwealth.What started with a single parade in 1956, the not-for-profit Derby Festival has grown in 65 years to become a whirlwind of over 70 special events.More than just entertainment, the Kentucky Derby Festival generates more than $127 million annually for the local economy. Events on the Festival's schedule also help raise more than $500,000 for local charities each year.When 1.5 million people gather every year at Festival events, they celebrate the warmth of spring and the unique vitality of their community, and the focus is solely on the fun.We are an Equal Employment Opportunity (“EEO”) Employer.It has been and will continue to be a fundamental policy of KDF not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, gender, gender identity, pregnancy, marital status, partnership status, domestic violence victim status, sexual orientation, age, national origin, alienage or citizenship status, veteran or military status, disability, medical condition, genetic information, caregiver status, unemployment status or any other characteristic prohibited by federal, state and/or local laws. xzbcwsv *Kentucky Derby Festival reserves the right to revise this Position Description, as it deems necessary.