CDS Full Time Event Manager - Product Demonstration

Club Demonstration Services (CDS) is a premier event marketing company specializing in in-store product demonstrations and brand activations, recognized as the preferred in-house event marketing provider for Costco. With a strong focus on person-to-person marketing services, CDS is committed to driving sales and enhancing the shopper experience in a variety of retail environments. The company operates by bridging the gap between manufacturers and retailers to bring the best consumer packaged goods directly to customers through engaging product demonstrations and promotional events. This role offers full-time employment with a set schedule from Tuesday to Saturday, 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM, with some variation depending on operational needs. Employees at CDS enjoy a strong work-life balance alongside comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short and long-term disability, 401(k) retirement plan, and generous paid time off.

The Event Manager position at CDS is a critical leadership role responsible for the recruitment, hiring, training, and supervision of part-time in-store Product Demonstrators. This individual oversees all aspects of product preparation and presentation, ensuring compliance with food safety and sanitation standards. The Event Manager plays a pivotal role in delivering excellent customer service to Club members through effective training and management of the demonstration team. The role requires strong communication and coordination between warehouse managers, vendors, and demonstrators to ensure seamless event execution. Participation in new store grand openings is also part of the responsibilities, highlighting the dynamic and diverse nature of the position.

Beyond day-to-day operational duties, the Event Manager collaborates with District Managers to evaluate key performance indicators such as sales outcomes, execution rates, labor hours, and operational costs. This data-driven approach enables the manager to make necessary adjustments to optimize revenue and net income objectives. The position also emphasizes maintaining high levels of customer satisfaction and loyalty by enhancing operational efficiency and ensuring high-quality promotional events. Supervisory responsibilities include hiring, coaching, guiding, and developing direct reports through established company processes and resources, fostering strong and effective teams.

This role requires an individual who can work independently, prioritize tasks efficiently, and meet deadlines within a fast-paced retail environment. Excellent written and verbal communication skills are crucial for success, alongside a proven ability to lead and develop people. Candidates must hold an Associate's Degree or equivalent experience, with a preference for a Bachelor's Degree in Marketing, Business Administration, or a related field. Practical experience in client-side branded consumer-packaged goods companies or combined supplier/client-side roles is highly valued. Proficiency with basic computer applications such as Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Access, and Outlook is expected. Additionally, the NEHA Professional Food Handler Certification is required to ensure adherence to food safety standards.

The physical demands of the role include prolonged periods of standing, ability to lift or push up to 50 pounds, and performing activities in refrigerated or freezer sections, occasionally under extreme temperature conditions. Travel and driving are also components of the job. CDS is dedicated to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities, emphasizing equal opportunity employment practices with no discrimination based on age, race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, or disability.

Overall, the Event Manager position presents a rewarding opportunity to lead and innovate within the event marketing industry, promoting top-tier consumer products while cultivating a collaborative team environment and driving business success for CDS and its retail partners.