Experiential Manager (Sports + Lifestyle Partnerships) (Payment Services Client)

Octagon is a globally recognized leader in sports, entertainment, and experiential marketing. As the global sports, entertainment, and experiential marketing arm of the Omnicom Group, Octagon prides itself on being a place where passion for sports and entertainment meets innovative marketing solutions. Known for its inventive approach to marketing, Octagon has earned a reputation for creating outstanding fan experiences and leveraging the power of play to unlock potential for their clients and talent. This distinction has earned them recognition as one of the "Best Places to Work in Sports." The company fosters a culture of creativity and boldness, encouraging its employees to find insightful ways to create play in their professional and personal lives.

This role, Experiential Manager focused on Sports and Lifestyle Partnerships, is an exciting opportunity within a leading Payment Services client of Octagon. The position is hybrid, requiring three days a week in-office work at one of the offices located in Stamford, CT, New York, NY, Chicago, IL, Charlotte, NC, or Atlanta, GA. However, remote candidates will not be considered, and New York-based applicants are asked to report to Stamford once a week. The Experiential Manager will be responsible for managing US event support related to client property partnerships with a strong focus on event planning, logistics, and customer hosting.

This role involves working across multiple high-profile properties such as golf, baseball, arts & culture, and culinary events. The Experiential Manager's role is dynamic and encompasses coordinating event and activation logistics, executing marketing programs, and maintaining daily communication with clients. The individual will also support the team in brainstorming and developing innovative event programs aimed at driving client marketing objectives. This position offers a unique blend of work and play, where engaging with private concerts, sports events, and culinary experiences become part of the job.

The Experiential Manager will oversee all aspects of event planning and sponsorship operations, including vendor management, client deliverables, budgeting, and timelines. Responsibilities span from initial brainstorming and strategic event planning to on-site and virtual execution and post-event wrap-up. Managing materials like digital programs, invitations, and promotional items are critical parts of the job. Building and nurturing relationships with internal and external partners, vendors, and property owners are essential to ensuring the success of the events.

Additionally, the Experiential Manager will be responsible for managing program budgets, ensuring diligent accounting and expense procedures, and assisting with financial documentation such as purchase orders and job codes. Sales and concept decks for internal and external audiences will be developed as part of the role. The manager must efficiently juggle multiple projects related to various sports and lifestyle sponsorship properties, offering strategic recommendations to optimize sponsorship asset use and ensure all assets and event logistics are fulfilled smoothly.

On-site responsibilities include managing dining events, food and beverage services, venue needs, decor, furniture rentals, audiovisual requirements, and brand integration with promotional materials. Serving as a main point of contact during events for vendors, clients, guests, and partners is a key aspect, requiring excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

This position requires a candidate who is a sports or lifestyle culture enthusiast, with more than four years of agency or client service experience in event planning and management. The ideal candidate is an excellent project manager, capable of handling multiple programs simultaneously, comfortable working in front of clients, and adept at managing relationships with stakeholders like venues, vendors, and suppliers. Strong organizational skills, meticulous work ethic, and proficiency in Microsoft Office tools are expected. The role demands flexibility, willingness to travel domestically around 20-45% and availability to work weekends or holidays as necessary.

The role offers a salary range of $60,000 to $65,000, with the exact rate based on factors such as experience, tenure, market conditions, and internal salary ranges. Octagon is committed to being an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer, valuing diversity and inclusiveness in its workforce. The company also ensures accessibility in its application process and provides accommodations to candidates with special needs.

This position represents a fantastic chance to join a vibrant, passionate team in a company that not only values creativity and play but also champions professional growth in the high-energy fields of sports, entertainment, and experiential marketing.