CDS Full Time Event Manager - Product Demonstration

Club Demonstration Services (CDS) is a premier sales and marketing agency specializing in providing outsourced sales, merchandising, category management, and marketing services for a diversified portfolio of food products and consumer packaged goods. With a strong commitment to bridging the gap between manufacturers and retailers, CDS serves various trade channels including grocery, mass merchandise, specialty, convenience, drug, dollar, club, hardware, consumer electronics, and home centers across North America. As the preferred in-house event marketing provider for Costco, CDS delivers unparalleled person-to-person marketing services that boost product sales and enhance customer engagement at retail locations nationwide.

The CDS Event Manager role is a full-time position dedicated to managing in-store Product Demonstrators who play a critical role in showcasing and promoting vendor products to Costco members and shoppers. This position requires dynamic leadership in recruiting, hiring, and supervising a part-time staff of Demonstrators, ensuring top-notch product preparation, presentation, and customer service aligned with company standards and food safety regulations. Exceptional communication skills are essential as this role acts as the liaison between warehouse managers, vendors, and Demonstrators to coordinate operational efforts and successful event execution.

Beyond operational management, the Event Manager will actively participate in new Costco location grand openings, contributing their expertise to establish and enhance the consumer experience from day one. Working a set schedule from Tuesday through Saturday, from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM, this role provides stability and supports a healthy work-life balance. CDS backs the role with comprehensive full-time benefits including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short and long-term disability, a 401(k) plan, and generous paid time off.

This position demands a minimum of high school education and two to four years of related experience in retail, hospitality, or food environments. The ideal candidate will exhibit a detail-oriented mindset, exceptional leadership capabilities, and the ability to independently exercise judgment while coaching their teams to success. CDS values flexibility and thrives in fast-paced environments, requiring the Event Manager to adeptly navigate changing priorities.

In addition to direct supervision responsibilities which include recruiting, training, and ongoing development, the Event Manager will direct all sales and promotional activities related to vendor products at Costco locations. They will manage operational metrics such as sales performance, labor costs, and execution rates to meet revenue and net income targets effectively. The role also involves maintaining and progressing the company's corporate governance frameworks, policies, and procedures, ensuring compliance and excellence across all engagements.

The successful candidate will work collaboratively with district management to analyze event outcomes and make strategic adjustments to optimize customer satisfaction and loyalty. This role necessitates a strong foundation in computer skills including Microsoft Office suite applications, and food safety certification from the National Environmental Health Association (NEHA) is mandatory. Physical demands such as standing for long periods, lifting up to 50 pounds, and working in various environmental conditions—including refrigerated and freezer sections—are part of the everyday duties.

CDS is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion and provides reasonable accommodations for qualified applicants with disabilities. If you are passionate about event marketing, exhibit strong managerial skills, and are eager to contribute to one of the leading sales and marketing agencies in North America, apply today to join the CDS team as a Full-Time Event Manager.