POSITION SUMMARY

The SCMC Director of Events leads the strategic planning and execution of all major events for South Carolina Manufacturers & Commerce, overseeing a comprehensive events portfolio that drives member engagement, industry advancement, and organizational growth. Key Responsibilities Strategic Leadership & Planning In consultation with President & CEO, VP of Member Relations, Strategy, and Programming, and other senior staff, develop and implement a comprehensive annual events strategy aligned with organizational goals and member needs Lead strategic planning sessions for major conferences, trade shows, networking events, and educational seminars Conduct market research and industry analysis to identify emerging trends and opportunities Financial Management & Business Development Track annual events budget exceeding $1.5M, ensuring profitability and ROI targets Lead sponsorship strategy and cultivate relationships with major corporate partners Solicit and secure event sponsors In coordination with VP of Member Relations, Strategy, and Programming, determine pricing strategies for registration, exhibitor fees, and premium experiences Continuously analyze event financial performance and provide regular detailed reporting Vendor & Venue Management Source, evaluate, and manage relationships with venues, caterers, AV providers, and other vendors Negotiate contracts for services and manage vendor performance Conduct site inspections and coordinate setup/breakdown activities Oversee vendor coordination during events and manage on-site troubleshooting Maintain comprehensive vendor database and performance records Stakeholder Relations, Partnership Development & Marketing Serve as primary liaison with key sponsors and VIP attendees Lead crisis management and high-level problem resolution during events Serve as primary driver of agenda development, managing and overseeing SCMC working groups charged with recommending content Source guest speakers, coordinate agenda topics, and manage holistic agenda development Collaborate with marketing team on event promotion strategies and materials Other Duties as Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Event Management, Marketing, Business Administration, or related field 8+ years of progressive experience in large-scale event management, with 3+ years in leadership roles Proven track record managing events with budgets exceeding $400K and attendance over 450 Strong business acumen with experience in P&L management and ROI analysis Exceptional leadership, communication, and presentation skills Experience with association management and trade organization dynamics preferred CMP (Certified Meeting Professional) or similar industry certification preferred Proficiency with event management software (Cvent, Eventbrite, etc.) and CRM systems Strong project management skills with ability to handle multiple concurrent events Excellent written and verbal communication skills Detail-oriented with strong organizational and time management abilities Ability to work flexible hours including evenings and weekends during events In office presence during scheduled hours, and work collaboratively in face-to-face interactions with others (other staff, members, directors, vendors and the public) Prompt, Regular, predictable, and full attendance Ability to handle productivity requirements of job (fast paced, stressful, and full attention when exigent issues arise) Ability to work under strict deadlines and high levels of stress Ability to work effectively, efficiently and with a high degree of accuracy, despite stress, interruptions or other office distractions. Ability to set goals, meet deadlines, and work independently without excessive supervision or instruction Ability to concentrate in a normal office environment and follow through on a task to completion Ability to think quickly but calmly and communicate effectively during events as issues arise Ability to align multiple points of view, think critically about the consequences of actions and communications, and align all actions with the organization's mission and the membership's goals. Ability to multi-task and/or stop project to focus on other issues and then resume project Ability to work and sustain attention with distractions and/or interruptions Ability to learn new tasks or dynamic factual issues quickly, including the ability to read, comprehend and retain information quickly Ability to utilize time management skills and otherwise organize/prioritize tasks Ability to comprehend and understand both written and oral instructions Ability to remain poised under all circumstances, diffuse conflict with colleagues and/or customers/vendors/members, and to interact effectively with people in a positive manner Ability to work as an integral part of a team Travel In-state travel. The expectation for the frequency of travel is between 15-20% of the Events Manager's time. Compensation and Benefits Compensation Competitive base salary plus performance-based incentives, at the discretion of SCMC President and CEO and Board leadership. Benefits Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance 401(k) retirement plan with company matching Paid time off and holidays Professional development opportunities and continuing education support Working Conditions Primary office location, with regular travel throughout the state Some evening and weekend work required for industry events and networking functions