Director of Events

Director of Events

About Us:

The Organization

Grassroots Outdoor Alliance is a retailer-owned, board-governed, active network of 102 independently owned outdoor retailers and 69 vendor partners, working together for the health and growth of specialty outdoor retail. Through data collection and analysis, direct member support, specialty events and deep vendor partnerships, Grassroots Outdoor Alliance is creating both a vision and roadmap for the long-term success of independent specialty retail. Grassroots Outdoor Alliance is recognized as a catalyst for the success of its retailers and vendor partners; an advocate for specialty independent retail; a promoter of education and community within the specialty channel; and a key influencer of the national outdoor industry. For more information on Grassroots Outdoor Alliance, please visit www.grassrootsoutdoors.com.

Recent Press:

• https://shop-eat-surf.com/2022/05/grassroots-connect-rolls-into-sold-out-june-show/

• https://www.bicycleretailer.com/announcements/2022/10/10/grassroots-connect-gears-kansas-city-buying-show#.Y_7O7ezMKPc

Grassroots Events

Connect by Grassroots is our twice annual legacy show experience that spans 4 days offering an efficient and structured format for retailers to conduct their pre-season line showings and business conversations. Connect appointments are scheduled well in advance of the show which supports brands that already have established business with our retail attendees. Connect is focused and efficient and allows retailers and brands to conduct business together at the right time in the buying cycle, while also incorporating opportunities to celebrate the outdoor industry and retail community. 

Discovery Marketplace by Grassroots is our exploration experience aimed at introducing our attending retailers to new, niche, and exciting brands in a 3-hour unstructured open format offered at the beginning of Grassroots. The Discovery Marketplace is about making introductions and building new relationships between retailers and emerging brands. 

Recent Press: https://thedaily.outdoorretailer.com/news/industry-press-releases/grassroots-connect-doubles-size-of-discovery-marketplace/

You can learn more about Grassroots events at connect.grassrootsoutdoors.com

Our Team:

The Grassroots team is a closely knit, remote team that works cross-functionally to bring to life the mission and vision of the organization. We employ agile practices, strive to create an open and safe space for collaboration among individuals, and aim to achieve our goals through teamwork. Our office culture is guided by our team values (listed below):

• Show Your Work

• Be Direct and Show Respect

• Embrace Agility

• Be Intentional and Responsive

• We Celebrate our Differences

Reports To: President

Position Summary: 

The Grassroots team is seeking a dynamic and experienced Director of Events to lead the planning, execution, and evaluation of our bi-annual flagship tradeshow (Connect), Discovery Marketplace, and other events. As the Director of Events, you will be responsible for managing all aspects of our events, from conception to completion, and ensuring that they are successful, impactful, and aligned with our organizational goals. 

Requirements:

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in event planning, management, and execution.

• Proven track record of successful event planning, with experience managing mid to large-scale tradeshows and business events

• Strong financial acumen and budget management skills

• Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams to achieve common goals

• A love of the outdoors and independently owned retail

Ideal Profile:

• Strong project management skills

• Excellent organization, time management, and leadership skills necessary to thrive in a remote work environment

• Ability to travel domestically, 2-4 times a year for up to 10 days at a time

• Empathetic to the needs of those around you

• Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced and dynamic environment while also being mindful of work-life balance and wellness

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build and maintain relationships with stakeholders at all levels

• Finds joy in creating unique experiences and serving up exceptional customer service

Position Duties:

Overall - 

• Develop and execute event strategies and plans that align with Grassroots event business objectives and goals while prioritizing the needs and experiences of our retail attendees, exhibitors, and partners

• Manage all aspects of event logistics, including venue selection, vendor negotiations, transportation, accommodations, catering, on-site management, and other related services

• Develop and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including industry partners, retailers, and vendors to ensure the success of our events

• Evaluate the success of our events and make recommendations for improvements of future events

• Lead the development of event budgets and oversee financial planning and management to ensure profitability and success

• Identify and evaluate new Grassroots event opportunities

Specific Duties -

• Design show feedback mechanisms and methods for incorporating both internal and external feedback into future events

• Ensure timely and accurate reconciliation of final show invoices

• Participate in setting event communication strategy and implementation with Event Relations Manager and Director of Membership & Education

• Participate in setting event sales and participation goals for Event Relations Manager

• Work with membership team on event incentives/participation and help ensure consistency with membership goals

• Oversee event registration methods and execution with Event Relations Manager

• Develop, maintain, and enforce exhibitor booth and participation policies

• Provide regular status updates of Grassroots events to the rest of the team via regular calls

Compensation, FLSA Status, Location, and Hours: 

• This is a 40-hour per week exempt, remote position that will require you to have a suitable workspace with secure internet and reliable phone reception. This position requires frequent phone and internet meetings.

• Compensation: $75,000 - $85,000 depending on certifications, education and experience.

• Retirement contributions

• Annual PTO, plus 8 paid holidays