CDS Full Time Event Manager - Product Demonstration

Club Demonstration Services (CDS) is a North American leader in sales and marketing services, specializing in outsourced sales, merchandising, category management, and marketing solutions for manufacturers, suppliers, and producers of food products and consumer packaged goods. As the preferred in-house event marketing provider for Costco, CDS is recognized for delivering exceptional person-to-person marketing services that drive sales growth for their customers and Costco alike. The company operates across a variety of trade channels, including grocery, mass merchandise, specialty, convenience, drug, dollar, club, hardware, consumer electronics, and home centers. This broad scope ensures that CDS maintains a dynamic and influential presence in the retail marketing industry. Committed to bridging the gap between manufacturers and retailers, CDS provides consumers access to the best products available in today's market. Their dedication to quality and service excellence has positioned them as a trusted partner for both vendors and retail clients.

The Event Manager role at CDS is a full-time position that involves recruitment, hiring, and supervision of in-store Product Demonstrators. The incumbent will be responsible for overseeing product preparation and presentation, training staff, and delivering outstanding service to club members. The role requires effective communication and coordination between warehouse managers, vendors, and demonstrators. Participation in new location grand openings is also a critical part of the position. The position offers a set schedule from Tuesday through Saturday, 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM, with potential variations based on operational needs. In addition to a stable schedule, CDS offers a comprehensive full-time benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short and long-term disability, a 401(k) plan, and generous paid time off, promoting a healthy work-life balance for their employees.

The Event Manager’s responsibilities include managing recruitment and training of part-time staff, ensuring product presentation adheres to food safety and sanitation standards, and coaching demonstrators to deliver excellent customer service. This role requires thorough communication with multiple managers, vendors, and demonstrators to guarantee seamless event execution and maintain high performance standards. The Event Manager also collaborates closely with the District Manager to review event metrics, such as execution rates, sales performance, labor hours, and operational costs, making necessary adjustments to meet revenue and income goals.

In the supervisory capacity, the Event Manager hires, retains, trains, coaches, guides, directs, and develops direct reports using company-wide processes and resources, ensuring teams are well-prepared and motivated. Unlike some roles, this position does not have responsibilities for indirect reports' guidance or mentoring. Candidates for this role will possess a combination of leadership skills, operational expertise, and customer service acumen. The position requires the ability to work independently, prioritize tasks effectively to meet deadlines, and remain adaptable in a fast-paced work environment. The successful candidate will have demonstrated experience leading high-performing teams and maintaining positive client and customer relationships.

Additionally, the role mandates physical stamina and agility, as work may occur in various environments including office, retail store, warehouse, or field settings. The Event Manager should be prepared to engage in considerable physical activity such as lifting up to 50 pounds, standing for extended periods, and potentially working in refrigerated or freezer sections. Travel and driving are also requirements to attend events and new store openings. A professional food handler certification (NEHA Professional Food Handler Certification) is required to ensure compliance with food safety laws and standards. This comprehensive role offers the opportunity to be an integral part of a prestigious marketing firm with a robust client base, delivering impactful sales and promotional events across multiple regions.