Associate Manager, Brand Activation

Description

O’Neill Vintners & Distillers was founded in 2004 with a simple idea from our founder, Jeff O’Neill, that great wines should be enjoyed by all. We believe those wines must be of exceptional quality, centered around our core belief that doing the right thing for our employees, consumers, partners, and the planet is key to a sustainable future. As our family-owned business has grown, so has our belief in business as a force for good—we are proud to be an industry leader in sustainability and a Certified B Corporation.

We are one of California's largest wineries, with operations in Larkspur, Sonoma, Paso Robles, and Parlier/Reedley, CA. Our award-winning portfolio of consumer brands includes Line 39, FitVine, Harken Chardonnay, Rabble, Charles Woodson’s Intercept, Robert Hall, Allegro Cellars, Ram’s Gate, Substance, ViNO, and BrandyLab.

O’Neill Vintners & Distillers is seeking an organized, solutions-oriented, and creative Associate Manager, Brand Activation to support the tactical execution of brand activations and public relations projects and strategies across O’Neill brands. This role is responsible for implementing and executing initiatives that drive brand awareness, engage audiences, and amplify PR efforts. Reporting to the Manager, Brand Activation and Communication, the Associate Manager, Brand Activation will manage logistics, timelines, and deliverables to ensure the seamless execution of activations and PR campaigns.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

The following reflects management’s definition of essential functions for this job but does not restrict the tasks that may be assigned. Management may assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons.

• Activation Execution
• Coordinate and execute brand activations, events, and market initiatives, ensuring alignment with brand goals and strategies.
• Manage event logistics, including venue coordination, vendor communication, and on-site setup and support.
• Track timelines and ensure all activation deliverables are completed on schedule.
• Public Relations Support
• Assist with the execution of PR campaigns and ongoing duties, including tactical support of pitches, media visits, outreach, relationship building, ideation, and ongoing reporting. 
• Support media outreach efforts by coordinating schedules, product samples, and follow-ups- typically through third-party agencies
• Project Management
• Maintain detailed project plans and calendars for activations and PR initiatives, ensuring all stakeholders are aligned on timelines and expectations.
• Coordinate with internal teams and external vendors to secure necessary materials, approvals, and resources.
• Event Kits & Materials
• Assemble and manage event kits and branded materials for activations, ensuring they meet brand standards and are delivered on time.
• Coordinate shipping and logistics for event materials to various locations.
• Collaboration & Communication
• Work closely with cross-functional teams, including creative, digital, and sales, to support activation and PR projects.
• Provide regular updates to the Manager and other stakeholders on project progress and challenges.
• Performance Tracking
• Collect and organize data related to activations and PR campaigns, including attendance, engagement, and media impressions.
• Assist with the preparation of post-activation and PR performance reports, including key takeaways and recommendations for improvement.
• Understand project budgets, executing and tracking spending within the outlined available budget. 

Requirements

QUALIFICATIONS:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below represent the knowledge, skill, and ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. 

• Bachelor’s degree or pursuing Bachelor’s degree in marketing, communications, public relations, Wine and Viticulture, or equivalent experience.
• 1–3 years of experience in marketing, event coordination, activations, or public relations, preferably in the luxury, lifestyle, or wine industry.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to clearly and effectively collaborate with all levels of organizational stakeholders.
• Ability to adapt to changing priorities and thrive in a fast-paced environment with an eye for detail.
• Solutions-oriented mindset with the ability and desire to lead others through positivity.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and familiarity with project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello).
• Experience with event logistics and working with vendors is a plus.

CULTURAL BEHAVIORS:

O’Neill team members are Forward Thinkers. Hard Working without Drama. Friendly Problem Solvers who work as One Team to Always Deliver.

PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to do the following: 

• Ability to sit, stand, or move for extended periods during events and activations.
• Lift and carry event materials and supplies up to 40 lbs.
• Maintain focus and multitask effectively under tight deadlines.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Hybrid work environment between the Paso Robles office and working from home that includes travel for activations, events, and media opportunities.
• Ability to adapt to high-stress situations and problem-solve quickly in dynamic environments.
• Involves evening or weekend work to support events and activations.

O’Neill Vintners & Distillers offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance coverage, short- and long-term disability, a 401(k) with a company match, Paid Time Off, holidays, and more.

O’Neill Vintners & Distillers is an equal-opportunity employer. All aspects of employment, including the decision to hire, promote, discipline, or discharge, will be based on merit, competence, performance, and business needs. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy, genetic information, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law.

All candidates must pass a comprehensive background check and drug screen and adhere to all Company, Federal, and State Food Safety Regulations and Policies. This organization participates in E-Verify.

Salary : $68,650 - $70,000