Event Director

Job Summary
The Rotary Club of Lexington Park is seeking an enthusiastic, self-motivated, highly organized and creative Event Director to successfully produce The US National Oyster Festival held in Leonardtown, MD.

Working under the guidance of the executive leadership team and the Festival Chairperson, or ‘Royal Oyster’, the Director orchestrates one of the most significant and enduring legacy events in St. Mary’s, Maryland, by planning all activities, coordinating with vendors, artisans, sponsors, entertainers and shuckers, and creating awareness and enthusiasm among new and returning attendees. This event is primarily supported by Rotarians and local volunteers, supplemented by subcontractors where required. The ideal candidate will be able to strategically manage a dynamic budget while exceeding the expectations of the guests, vendors, Rotary Club members, and participants. This is a ten-month salaried, contract position with a potential performance bonus upon successful completion of the contract.

Responsibilities

• Manage all vendor activities before, during and after the event, including but not limited to the application and selection process, all communications, coordination, compliance, and the collection of post-event feedback.
• Coordinate the solicitation of local and national sponsors by preparing and distributing an enticing and dynamic sponsorship package and ensuring appropriate representation for all sponsors.
• Develop relationships and work effectively with Rotary Volunteer Lane Directors.
• Recruit and coordinate local volunteers and community service participants to support the set-up, execution, and clean-up of the event.
• Working with designated members and local officials, prepare and distribute all primary and contingency plans for weather, security, public health and safety and secure insurance as required.
• Work closely with the Treasurer and key stakeholders to develop, monitor and manage all aspects of the budget as directed.
• Working with community partners, create and implement a dynamic marketing plan that inspires both new and returning attendees, including securing media coverage, creating and distributing print collateral and local signage, coordinating social media posts and press releases, and ensuring the timely update of all related website content.
• Schedule and manage festival committee meetings.
• Serve as liaison with participating community organizations.
• Manage the execution of all contracts including but not limited to venue, vendors, licenses, and insurances.
• Coordinate all aspects of the shucker contestant experience including registration, eligibility, lodging, and prizes.
• Coordinate with local and state government agencies as needed.
• Consistently represent the ideals and ethical standards of the Rotary Club in both attitude and actions.
• Maintain clear and accurate documentation of all processes, key performance metrics, and results.
• Produce and distribute timely, concise monthly progress reports and a comprehensive final report.
• Conduct post-event evaluations to assess success and identify areas for improvement.
• Stay updated on industry trends and best practices in event management.
• Develop and propose beneficial modifications and strategies to grow and improve this 59 year old event.
• Other duties as assigned by the Chair

Skills

• Bachelor's degree preferred.
• 3-5 years professional experience required; event production experience preferred.
• Demonstrable experience in budgeting and financial management related to event planning strongly preferred.
• Working knowledge of common office applications required (G Suite, Microsoft, etc).
• Experience in web page management and social media preferred.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills are required, along with exceptional interpersonal and problem-solving skills.
• Must be a self-starter with strong organizational skills who is able to independently move projects forward, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines.
• Must demonstrate creative problem-solving abilities to address challenges as they arise during planning and execution.
• Must be adept at managing multiple priorities and various personalities professionally and respectfully and able to both motivate and appreciate stakeholders, volunteers, and partners.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and access to a vehicle.
• Ability to lift up to 20 lbs. as needed.
• Ability to adjust personal and professional schedules to work evening and weekend hours occasionally as necessary.
• Must reside in or near St. Mary’s County, and must be available on-site for the entire festival weekend, three days prior to and the two days after.

Job Type: Contract

Pay: $55,000.00 - $70,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule

Schedule:

• Evenings as needed
• Weekends as needed

Application Question(s):

• Do you have specific experience in event management?

Ability to Commute:

• Leonardtown, MD 20650 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Leonardtown, MD 20650: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Leonardtown, MD 20650

Salary : $55,000 - $70,000