Events & Development Manager

United States Naval Institute•Naval Academy, MD

1d•$60,000 - $65,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Naval Institute is a highly respected, independent, nonpartisan institution with a 153-year record of thought leadership on defense and global security issues based in Annapolis, MD, on the grounds of the U.S. Naval Academy. The Jack C. Taylor Conference Center (part of the Naval Institute) is seeking an enthusiastic, relationship-driven Events & Development Coordinator to help grow our business and deliver outstanding client experiences from first contact to event completion. This role is perfect for someone who is a self-starter with a passion for building new connections. As the primary point of contact for booked clients, this person will combine sales-minded enthusiasm with highly detailed event coordination skills to ensure the continued growth and reputation of the Jack C. Taylor Conference Center.

Requirements

Two to four years of professional customer service and business development experience
Excellent written and verbal communication skills and ability to interact professionally and respectfully with guests, clients, and teammates
Outstanding planning skills with a keen eye for detail and organization
Ability to multitask and address customer’s needs, facility issues, and miscellaneous projects
Ability to lift chairs and tables and other items related to event setup and breakdown
Above-average computer skills, including Microsoft Word and Excel
Comfortable learning and using technical equipment
Ability to lead others and instill a team atmosphere without direct supervision
Ability to remain calm under pressure and maintain a customer service-oriented attitude
Ability to think creatively, with demonstrated analytical and problem-solving skills, initiative, flexibility, and adaptability
Results-oriented, enthusiastic team player working in support of the mission of the U.S. Naval Institute

Nice To Haves

bachelor’s degree preferred

Responsibilities

Proactively identify, research, and pursue new business opportunities to grow the Conference Center’s client base and event bookings
Represent the Jack C. Taylor Conference Center at networking events, industry tradeshows, and local events to build visibility and relationships with current and new clients
Build and maintain a pipeline of leads, tracking outreach efforts and following up consistently to convert prospects into booked events to meet venue revenue goals
Maintain accurate records of prospective and current interactions and clients in Tripleseat and the CRM system
Support in the execution of the Conference Center’s marketing strategy through collaboration on formulating social media posts, outreach email templates, and ad graphics and copy language
Serve as the primary point of contact for confirmed and contracted clients
Coordinate logistical details of booked events, including room setup, catering, audiovisual needs, and vendor coordination, which includes events with some early mornings, late nights, and weekends
Conduct site visits and planning meetings with clients to finalize all event details and manage event timelines and final walkthroughs in advance of event execution
Supervise all vendor teams and troubleshoot and resolve issues that arise before or during events, ensuring a positive client experience
Assist with small AV tasks for meeting rooms and have general understanding of the AV capabilities we offer
Follow up with clients after events to gather feedback, strengthen relationships, and identify opportunities for repeat business
Become proficient with event sales and management software (Tripleseat, Floorplans, and SharePoint)
Other duties as assigned