Sports Backers is a nationally acclaimed 501(c)(3) charitable non-profit organization with a mission to inspire people to live actively. We achieve this mission by hosting events and facilitating programs that encourage people to get moving. Sports Backers is seeking a passionate and experienced Event Manager to oversee one of our signature events, Dominion Energy Riverrock, along with other events throughout the year.
Position Overview
As an Event Manager at Sports Backers, you will play a crucial role in the planning, execution, and success of our events. This position will manage Dominion Energy Riverrock, an outdoor sports and music festival celebrating Richmond’s active, outdoor scene and vibrant riverfront. In addition to Riverrock, you will be tasked with direct management of various other events and initiatives aimed at promoting active living in our community as well as playing a supportive role in general event operations as assigned.
This is a full-time, office-based position located in Richmond, Virginia with the necessity to be on-site at events along with the flexibility to work remotely at times. This role will include evening and weekend work as well as manual labor. The Event Manager role will report to the Director of Events, Meghan Keogh (meghan@sportsbackers.org).
Key Areas of Responsibility:
• Serve as the primary point of contact for all aspects of Dominion Energy Riverrock, including operations and logistics and partnership management.
• Develop and maintain event budgets, timelines, and operational plans to ensure the successful execution of events.
• Collaborate with internal teams, external partners, and city officials to secure necessary permits, resources, and support.
• Lead the training and management of event staff and support the Volunteer Coordinator in the recruitment and training of volunteers, ensuring a positive and rewarding experience for all involved.
• Support the Director of Marketing and marketing team to ensure marketing and promotional efforts maximize participation, event attendance and engagement at Riverrock and other assigned events.
• Support the Director of Sponsorship and sponsorship team during the recruitment process and the fulfillment of sponsor benefits and their activations at Riverrock and other assigned events.
• Evaluate event performance and feedback to identify areas for improvement and implement strategies for enhancing the participant and attendee experience.
• Stay current on industry trends, best practices, and relevant regulations to inform event planning and management decisions.
• Provide assistance to other Sports Backers events through general event operations support.
Knowledge & Skill Requirements:
• Bachelor’s degree in event management, hospitality management, sports administration, business administration, or related field preferred.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in event planning and management, preferably in the sports or outdoor recreation industry.
• Strong project management skills, with the ability to multitask, prioritize, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships and work effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks effectively.
• High degree of adaptability, with the ability to thrive in a dynamic environment, work independently and make decisions as well as lead a team to a common goal.
• Capable of performing various manual labor tasks, including lifting 30-50 pounds regularly as part of event duties.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Passion for sports, fitness, and outdoor recreation, with a commitment to promoting active lifestyles.
Salary and Benefits:
• Annual salary starting at $50k based on experience
• 3+ Weeks Paid Time Off
• Paid Holidays
• 401k with Company Match
• Health Insurance
• Mobile Phone
• Employee Discounts on Merchandise
Sports Backers believes that diversity and inclusion among our teammates is critical to our success as a nonprofit, and we seek to recruit, develop and retain the most talented people from a diverse candidate pool. It is the policy of Sports Backers, in accordance with all applicable laws, to provide all individuals with equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, gender, pregnancy, age, marital status, veteran or disability status, national origin, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law in all terms, conditions and privileges of employment.
How to Apply
Applications can be submitted here: https://www.tfaforms.com/414822
