Manager, Events and Programs – Small Business Programs

NextDeavor•Seattle, WA

3d•Hybrid

About The Position

This role leads the planning and execution of events and programs designed to increase small business engagement and membership value. The position involves working with internal teams and external partners to deliver both in-person and virtual events, managing budgets, and supporting registration and program content. The work model is hybrid, requiring a minimum of 3 days onsite per week with up to 2 remote days. The office is generally closed on Fridays.

Requirements

3+ years of experience developing and managing events or programs, including planning, logistics, stakeholder coordination, and execution
Experience using event registration systems, CRM, project management, or database systems to manage logistics, registration, and reporting
Demonstrated written communication skills for agendas, speaker materials, briefing documents, and presentations
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, SharePoint, Teams)
Advanced proficiency in Excel or similar tools for budgets, attendance tracking, and engagement metrics
Experience with virtual event platforms (Teams, Zoom, webinar tools)
Strong judgment, prioritization, relationship management, and cross-functional collaboration skills
Ability to travel regionally, domestically, and internationally as required
Ability to work outside regular business hours for events
Ability to lift up to 25 pounds
Reliable transportation for event-related supplies

Nice To Haves

Experience working with small businesses or within economic development environments

Responsibilities

Lead planning and execution of recurring and ad hoc events (Power Hour, Member Appreciation Reception, Elevate matchmaking, pitch events) from concept through post-event follow-up
Manage event logistics: vendor and speaker coordination, onsite setup and registration, materials production, and attendee experience
Develop and manage select programs and small business content, including website resources and an entrepreneur interview series
Partner with Marketing & Communications to create and execute promotion strategies and social content to drive attendance and engagement
Coordinate sponsorship fulfillment and secure in-kind contributions (venues, goods, services)
Manage event budgets, process payments, generate invoices, and support financial reconciliation and reporting
Oversee registration systems and customer support, maintain data integrity and attendee records
Collaborate cross-functionally with Membership, Communications, External Affairs, and community partners to align events with organizational priorities
Support special projects and economic development events as needed