Assistant Manager – Sponsorship and Events

German American Chambers of Commerce•Chicago, IL

6d•Hybrid

About The Position

The German American Chamber of Commerce of the Midwest (GACC Midwest) aims to foster bilateral trade and investment between Germany and the United States. All positions offer the chance to gain experience in a bilingual and bicultural setting, with support from colleagues to navigate intercultural differences. The Christkindlmarket, a traditional holiday market, brings a cherished German and European tradition to the Chicagoland area. GACC Midwest's subsidiary, German American Events, LLC, manages the market, which is celebrating its 30th anniversary. We are seeking an enthusiastic individual to support the preparations for this celebration.

Requirements

Minimum two years of comprehensive experience in corporate relationship management and/or sponsor acquisition for events or non-profits.
Experience in event planning, organization, budget management, and execution is strongly preferred; candidates without existing experience in large-scale events should have a strong interest in the field.
Bachelor’s degree or higher, preferably in the areas of Business, Communication, Marketing, Sales or Event Management. A related degree or equivalent qualification is also acceptable.
Strong written and oral communication skills and the ability to interact effectively with partners, visitors, vendors, contractors, media, etc.
Ability to work independently and meet deadlines; reliable, hardworking, self-motivated, and a strong team player with an outgoing, energetic personality.
Excellent organizational and time management skills and heightened attention to detail; candidates must be able to manage multiple projects concurrently.
Must be available to work evenings and weekends during the holiday season before, during, and after event dates.
Must be available during Fall and Winter holidays; willingness to work outdoors on-site during event (between November and January).
Proficient computer and software skills: Microsoft Office Suite, CRM management, Canva, and other project management software.
Ability to lift and move objects (lift, push, pull, balance, carry) weighing 25 pounds or more.

Nice To Haves

Valid US driver’s license a plus but not required.
Knowledge of the German language and culture a plus but not required.

Responsibilities

Manage the full lifecycle of sponsorship sales, including prospect research, outreach, sales pitches and proposal development, contract negotiation, and execution of sponsor deliverables.
Develop customized sponsorship packages that drive revenue and deliver value to partners.
Build and maintain relationships with local and international partners to grow awareness and engagement.
Ensure fulfillment of all sponsor benefits pre-, during, and post-event, including performance reporting.
Support budget planning and oversee invoicing, payment tracking, and reconciliation for sponsorships.
Support vendor, sponsor, and contractor communications, including recruitment, coordinating operational needs, schedules, and follow-ups before the market.
Assist with the planning and execution of special ancillary events within the Christkindlmarket (e.g. German Wine Tasting, ‘Twas the Night Before Christkindlmarket, etc.).
Assist with vendor and contractor coordination and communications on-site during the market.
Support daily event and market operations, including setup, breakdown, signage, inventory movement, and operational readiness.
Ensure that all visitors and sponsors of the markets have a positive experience by always providing exceptional customer service and dealing effectively with any concerns or complaints.

Benefits

Competitive vacation policy, starting with 20 days, increasing with seniority up to 30 days
14 paid holidays including Martin Luther King Day, President’s Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Indigenous Peoples’ Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, plus additional days around Thanksgiving and Year End.
Health insurance with multiple plan options and networks (United Healthcare HMO, PPO, HSA) & Guardian dental and vision
401(k) matching with a competitive, discretionary employer contribution
Company-paid Life Insurance + AD&D/additional voluntary life + AD&D (also for spouse and children)
Wellness incentives: access to fitness center and complementary yoga classes
Paid Parental Leave
Company-paid Long-Term Disability
FSA Health Care and dependent care FSA commuter (transit and/or parking)
Goal-oriented bonus plan
Work from Home Policy
Flex-Time Policy
Professional development and German classes