Job Posting: Manager - German American Services (Christkindlmarket) in Chicago, IL Friday, September 12 (Application Deadline) German American Services, Inc. (henceforth GASI), a subsidiary organization of the German American Chamber of Commerce of the Midwest, Inc. (GACC Midwest), is currently seeking a talented and driven individual for a Manager opportunity. The individual will be responsible for several projects pertaining to strategic business development and revenue growth; organizing, planning, and running a market; marketing and PR planning and strategy implementation; and identifying strategic partners, new revenue sources, and sponsor acquisition. Christkindlmarket Chicago, now in its 19th year, is a large-scale German cultural event that attracts over a million visitors during its 35-day duration. This outdoor event takes place in downtown Chicago on Daley Plaza and in Oakbrook Center. Combined the events boast over 70 diverse vendors offering unique gift items, food and drinks in a nostalgic atmosphere which closely mirrors the traditional Christmas markets prevalent throughout Germany and Europe during the holiday season. As the event organizers, GASI places a high value on delivering a visitor experience that is as authentic as possible to the market’s German inspirations. To this end, GASI strives to maintain a traditional look and feel to the markets and to organize on-site entertainment and special events which reflect German culture and holiday traditions. Hands-on pre-event planning, event execution and post-event wrap-up activities are part of the duties of the position. The individual will support the day-to-day and long-term functions, duties, projects and strategic initiatives of GASI and will report to and work closely with the Managing Director and Managers of GASI. Candidates for this opening should have substantial experience in both events planning/marketing as well as event operation/production. Hospitality and events-related experience at large expositions, conventions or public events with many exhibitors, attendees and suppliers would be a significant plus. Furthermore, candidates should bring a solid understanding and appreciation of German culture, traditions, and heritage. The responsibilities will include daily, general, and special tasks and projects which are subject to change. Responsibilities: Business Development * Assist in conceptualizing a large scale event that will help sustain the integrity of the GASI mission * Advise on new ideas to generate revenue for the various events * Conceptualize and identify new event opportunities/themes * Identify key decision makers at external partners necessary to ensure business development goals are met * Collect essential information for project development from municipal officials, service providers and contractors * Supervise the project and coordinate with Managing Director Event Planning * Analyze existing processes and structures and recommend areas for improvement * Conduct feasibility assessments for future large scale event concepts * Assist in budget planning for the event Marketing/Public Relations * Utilize marketing expertise to help develop and execute marketing programs that will increase demand and drive revenue * Publicize event and work with Managing Director to raise awareness and drive high levels of attendance and participation by targeted audience * Develop PR strategies that efficiently use the available budget and maximize exposure On-site Staff Member * Work closely with staff, vendors, contractors, and volunteers to build networks to promote the organization; build relationships with key stakeholders * Pre-event and onsite communication with vendors and contractors * Assist Manager to monitor, review, and report on all marketing & advertising activities * Track and archive all media coverage related to GASI events * Maintain and update the website and assist with the social media campaign * Future projects and responsibilities to be determined * On-site event duties and responsibilities will be determined prior to the events Requirements: * Bachelor’s degree or higher, preferably in the areas of Business, Marketing or Event Management; a related degree or equivalent qualification is also acceptable * 3-5 years progressive experience in special event planning, organization, and execution; experience with large-scale events (over 100,000 attendees) preferred * Strong knowledge of best practices related to the event industry * Bilingual in English and German a plus * Strong written and oral communication skills and the ability to interact effectively with visitors, vendors, contractors, media, etc. * Ability to work independently and meet deadlines; reliable, hardworking, self-motivated, and a strong team player * Must be outgoing, energetic, friendly, and possess great customer service skills * Excellent organizational and time management skills and heightened attention to detail * Supervisory and project management skills; must be able to manage multiple projects and volunteers * Must be available to work evenings and weekends (dependant on staff schedule) during high season right before and during event dates * Must be available during Fall and Winter holidays; willingness to work outdoors on-site during event (between Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve) * Proficient computer skills: Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook; knowledge in website design/programming a plus * Strong social networking, internet research, and email communications skills * The applicant must possess a current and valid driver’s license, a car, and must be willing to travel Qualified candidates should submit their cover letter and resume along with their salary requirements to Justin Flaxbart [email protected] or [email protected], with “GASI – Manager”in the subject line. Submissions without a cover letter will not be considered. No phone calls please.
Posted on: Sun, 07 Sep 2014 23:25:35 +0000
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