Lead Event Specialist

Product Connections, a division of the Acosta Group, is part of one of the most trusted names in the retail, marketing, and foodservice industries. Acosta Group offers a comprehensive approach to connecting consumers with brands, utilizing expertise in digital and traditional retail events, experiential marketing, sponsorship activations, and omnichannel shopper marketing. With a workforce of over 10,000 experts and more than 150 corporate employees, Product Connections prides itself on fostering a culture that is supportive, collaborative, and inclusive. Employees are encouraged to innovate, develop their skills, and advance their careers, making Product Connections not only a place to work but a place to grow professionally and personally. The company’s core mission is to deliver timely and impactful brand solutions that effectively guide consumers through the purchasing journey, ensuring that products reach the right target audiences at the right time. Acosta Group is an equal opportunity employer and remains committed to providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities.

The role of Associate at Product Connections is a pivotal part-time position, typically not exceeding 25 hours per week, although the schedule may be adjusted to meet the needs of the business or clients. This role centers on executing in-store food and non-food demonstrations, where the Associate is responsible for engaging customers in a professional and interactive manner. Associates must acquire and maintain in-depth knowledge of the products they represent to effectively communicate their features and benefits to consumers, thereby driving sales and enhancing brand visibility.

In addition to customer engagement, the Associate manages and maintains event equipment and supplies, ensuring cleanliness, security, and proper storage in the designated backroom area. When the Supervisor is absent, the Associate assumes a leadership role, acting as the primary point of contact for all events in the store and maintaining open communication with store management regarding both upcoming and completed events. This leadership responsibility includes assisting other Event Specialists by providing necessary materials and supporting the team in all demo program activities.

The Associate must demonstrate strong food preparation skills, adhering to food safety guidelines while preparing and serving samples of raw meats, produce, and eggs, using various small appliances safely and effectively. Maintaining a sterile workstation is essential, as is a professional appearance consistent with the company’s standards. The role also involves administrative duties such as completing expense reports, submitting online requirements on the day of event execution, and documenting success stories through digital photography of the event setup.

This position requires physical stamina as the employee regularly stands, walks, reaches, lifts up to 25 pounds, and occasionally up to 50 pounds, as well as pushes and pulls wheeled carts fully loaded with equipment and products. The work environment is primarily in retail stores, with limited travel involved. A high level of communication skills in English is mandatory, with bilingual skills considered a plus depending on business needs.

Joining Product Connections means becoming part of a company that values employee contribution, promotes career growth, and provides a respectful and dynamic work environment. Whether stepping into this Associate role or exploring future opportunities within Acosta Group, candidates can expect a rewarding experience that supports both personal and professional development.