Event Planner: Private Events in San Jose

SPARK Social is a dynamic company dedicated to activating outdoor spaces through food, events, and vibrant shared experiences. Operating as a unique community-focused venue, SPARK Social transforms parks into lively environments featuring food trucks, beer and wine gardens, mini-golf, reservations, private events, and public programming to foster social connections and create memorable moments. Specializing in creating engaging outdoor experiences, SPARK Social serves as a hub where communities can come together to celebrate, relax, and enjoy a variety of entertainment options in unique outdoor settings.

The Private Events Planner plays a crucial role within SPARK Social, focusing on coordinating and executing private events that range from corporate outings and celebrations to fundraisers and family reunions. This role ensures that the client's vision is transformed into extraordinary and seamless events by managing logistics, vendor coordination, and communications with internal teams and clients. Acting as the primary client contact after an event is sold, the Private Events Planner guides clients through detailed planning stages, ensuring all elements are documented and organized for flawless execution.

This position acts at the intersection of sales, logistics, and hospitality within the company. While the Sales Manager drives business development through lead generation and closing sales, the Private Events Planner focuses on operational readiness and the successful delivery of events, making sure that everything sold can be executed consistently and to the highest standards. The Planner collaborates closely with various teams including sales, hospitality operations, facilities, food vendors, and programming to align resources and ensure that every event detail is accounted for.

Key responsibilities include developing event timelines, managing vendor relationships, coordinating food and beverage services, and handling logistical aspects such as rentals, entertainment, and alcohol service. The role often requires on-site presence during events to manage vendor setup, troubleshoot issues, and ensure guests receive exceptional experiences. Flexibility is essential, as events commonly occur during evenings and weekends as part of a full-time 40-hour workweek schedule.

The ideal candidate will bring 2 to 4 plus years of experience in event planning, hospitality, venue management, or catering. Proven skills in project management, strong organizational abilities, and effective communication are vital. Fluency in English and conversational Spanish are required to interact with diverse clients and teams. SPARK Social values collaboration, problem-solving under pressure, and a service-oriented mindset that prioritizes client satisfaction and event success.

This full-time role offers a competitive salary range from $70,000 to $80,000 annually, commensurate with experience, along with commission opportunities for events booked. After 90 days, employees are eligible for benefits including sick pay, health insurance, 401k, pre-tax transit, and paid time off. SPARK Social is committed to equal opportunity employment and embraces diversity, encouraging all qualified applicants to apply regardless of background, including those with arrest and conviction records under the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance.