Manager, Events and Community Relations

UnCommon Farms LLC

7h • $85,000 - $105,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

We’re looking for a dynamic, detail-oriented, and relationship-driven Manager of Events and Community Relations to lead the planning and execution of programs that bring our member community to life. This role is perfect for an experienced event professional who thrives on managing multiple priorities and is passionate about creating meaningful member experiences. If you are an organized, creative, and collaborative leader who loves connecting people and building community, this opportunity is for you. As the Manager of Events and Community Relations, you’ll lead the end-to-end planning and execution of conferences, peer groups, regional meetings, webinars, and other member-facing events. You will develop and implement strategies to deepen member engagement across in-person and digital platforms, manage vendor relationships, event budgets, and logistics, and partner closely with marketing, leadership, and internal teams to deliver exceptional member experiences. The role also involves continuously evaluating and improving event processes to increase efficiency and member satisfaction, and serving as a key point of contact for members, vendors, and stakeholders before, during, and after events.

Requirements

• 5+ years of experience in event planning, community engagement, or membership program coordination
• Demonstrated experience managing budgets, vendors, contracts, and logistics for programs or events
• Proven project management skills, including planning, executing, and overseeing multiple initiatives simultaneously
• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Marketing, Hospitality, Event Management, Agribusiness, or related field
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, CRM, and project management tools including Word, PowerPoint, Excel, HubSpot, and Teamwork
• Excellent organizational, communication, negotiating, and multitasking skills
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build relationships with members, vendors, and internal stakeholders
• Analytical mindset with the ability to evaluate processes, vendors, and engagement strategies
• High attention to detail, adaptability, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment
• Valid driver’s license required
• 30–40% travel expected

Nice To Haves

• Experience with member portals, online platforms, or social media engagement preferred

Responsibilities

• Lead the end-to-end planning and execution of conferences, peer groups, regional meetings, webinars, and other member-facing events
• Develop and implement strategies to deepen member engagement across in-person and digital platforms
• Manage vendor relationships, event budgets, and logistics with precision and creativity
• Partner closely with marketing, leadership, and internal teams to deliver exceptional member experiences
• Continuously evaluate and improve event processes to increase efficiency and member satisfaction
• Serve as a key point of contact for members, vendors, and stakeholders before, during, and after events
• Conduct research to understand requirements and details for member programs, conferences, peer groups, regional meetings, webinars, and other initiatives
• Manage multiple programs and events simultaneously, overseeing end-to-end planning, timelines, budgets, vendor selection, contracts, logistics, and travel arrangements
• Plan and execute events with close attention to financial, operational, and time constraints, tracking expenses and ensuring cost efficiency
• Oversee all operational aspects of events including venue setup, breakout rooms, invitations, technology, and day-of coordination
• Assist in developing and implementing member engagement initiatives across multiple platforms, including portals, social media, directories, and events, in collaboration with marketing and leadership
• Build and maintain trusted relationships with members, vendors, and internal stakeholders
• Identify opportunities to enhance the member experience at every touchpoint
• Identify, evaluate, and negotiate with vendors for catering, speakers, activities, and services, ensuring quality and favorable terms
• Monitor budgets and ensure events are executed cost-effectively without compromising quality
• Review and evaluate event and engagement processes—including registration systems, member portals, communication tools, and workflows—to identify opportunities for efficiency and improvement
• Maintain project documentation including timelines, budgets, vendor contracts, and post-event evaluations to support continuous improvement
• Provide regular updates to the Director and leadership on event status, outcomes, and key insights

Benefits

• Hybrid Work Environment: This position offers a hybrid work option, combining remote work flexibility with 2 days a week in the office in Brighton, Illinois.
• Comprehensive Coverage: Medical, dental, vision, and more
• Company-provided long-term disability, life, and AD&D insurance
• 401(k) with a 50% company match
• 3 weeks of paid vacation
• 1 week of paid sick time
• 11 paid holidays
• Relaxed dress code
• Tuition assistance

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager