Senior Manager, Event Management

dentsu•Time, IL

13d•$68,000 - $82,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The Senior Manager, Event Management is a seasoned event specialist and local market expert responsible for leading all phases of event execution—from planning and preparation through on‑site activation and post‑event reporting. Based in Portland, OR, this role oversees event activity across Oregon and its satellite markets (Idaho, Wyoming, Montana, Utah) and reports directly to the Regional Director. Events typically include staffing, product sampling, consumer engagement, asset logistics, POS coordination, and production. The role partners closely with cross‑functional teams, serves as a primary client contact, and leads a team that includes two Market Associates, a Brand Ambassador team, and additional part‑time and full‑time support as needed.

Requirements

Minimum 6 years of experience in event management.
Must be based in the Portland, OR area.
Strong budget management skills.
Prior experience with sampling events and production.
Knowledge of the wine and spirits industry.
Experience sourcing and selecting talent aligned with organizational needs.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
Comfortable working some non‑traditional hours as needed.
Ability to travel within assigned territories; schedule varies by market size and event needs.
Candidates must reside in or near Portland, OR.

Responsibilities

Lead end‑to‑end event operations across Oregon and satellite markets (Idaho, Wyoming, Montana, Utah).
Manage approximately 800 annual events across on‑premise and off‑premise channels.
Conduct 6 event audits per quarter, primarily in Oregon; occasional travel to satellite markets for special client‑driven events.
Act as the primary liaison for clients and internal cross‑functional partners.
Recruit, hire, onboard, schedule, coach, and manage performance for Market Associates and Brand Ambassadors.
Oversee financial and operational management of part‑time and full‑time staff.
Uphold established SOPs, policies, and protocols for issue resolution.
Manage the Oregon warehouse, including inventory upkeep, kit preparation, cleanliness, and receiving shipments; maintain a weekly on‑site presence.
Create and present program recaps using data and insights to evaluate performance and inform strategy, planning, and volume phasing.
Lead cross‑agency and in‑market communications; serve as a local point of contact for clients and partners.
Approve and submit payroll and expenses for all direct reports.
Process vendor invoices and maintain accurate financial documentation.
Prepare, manage, and track local market budgets.