Manager, Events
Department:
Job Summary
The Manager Events leads the day-to-day execution of Indigos events program translating strategic vision into disciplined operational plans managing 2-3 event coordinators and delivering events that are on time on brand and on budget.
This role owns end-to-end event production from national author signings and high-profile celebrity events to the annual programming calendar. The Manager is the connective tissue between strategy and execution: ensuring the coordinator team has clear direction and the tools to succeed while serving as the primary operational contact for authors publishers and cross-functional partners.
KEY PERFORMANCE METRICS
- Event Sales & Profit
- Event Customers
- On time execution
- Author Publisher & Key Stakeholder Satisfaction
- Employee Engagement
KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES
Functional
- Translate strategic direction into clear execution frameworks project plans and delivery timelines across all events author signings major events and national programming
- Lead the concept and development of all nationally-driven event programming including cross-functional campaigns
- Own internal project planning and execution: manage cross-functional workflows delivery standards and operational SLAs across the Coordinator team
- Own budget tracking forecasting and financial coordination for the events portfolio; contribute to post-event reporting insights and retrospectives
- Act as the escalation point for operational risks identifying mitigating and surfacing issues to the Senior Manager where required.
- Lead and chair the Bi-Weekly Events Planning meeting driving alignment across the coordinator team and cross-functional partners on upcoming events priorities and risks.
- Introduce and lead the Store-Events Monthly Meeting building a direct feedback loop between the events team and store leaders on execution quality and support needs.
- Serve as the primary operational contact for Retail Ops Loss Prevention Finance & Accounting General Managers Store Events Leaders Creative Marketing and Merchants.
- Ensure execution standards are consistently upheld across all event types channels and touchpoints from planning documentation through to on-site delivery.
- Identify process gaps and lead improvements to increase operational efficiency and enhance experience for customers stores and partners.
- Train and support stores on the execution of all author signing events
Communication
- Contribute to post-event reporting and retrospectives; surface insights and recommendations to the Senior Manager to inform future planning and investment decisions.
- Proactively communicate timelines risks and deliverable status to cross-functional execution partners ensuring no surprises on delivery.
- Champion the customer and store experience in all planning and decision-making consistently advocating for clarity quality and consistency of execution.
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People
- Develop a high performing & engaged team
- Provide feedback and coaching to develop direct reports and mentees
- Shape and influence team culture to reflect Indigos values and direction
- Empower team members through clear expectations performance management and growth opportunities
- Attract develop and retain top talent
- Act as a mentor & role model helping others understand the broader impact of their work
- Foster collaboration and knowledge sharing across teams and functions
- Ensure team alignment with organizational goals and cultural values
Cultural
- Model Indigos Guiding Principles and convey a positive forward-thinking image
- Embrace and influence change fostering a culture resonant of our guiding principles and in particular emphasizing data driven systems thinking and customer centric.
- Celebrate diversity of thought and encourage open dialogue
- Take an active role in shaping organizational culture through leadership and example
SCOPE
Reports to: Sr Manager Events
Manager once Removed (MOR): VP Customer Experience & eCommerce
KEY RELATIONSHIPS
Internal:
- Retail Operations
- General Managers & Store Events Leaders
- Creative Studio
- Marketing
- Merchants
- Loss Prevention
- Finance/Accounting
External:
- Publishers
- Vendors
- External agencies
- Venues
Qualifications :
Work Experience / Education / Certifications
- 57 years of experience in Events Marketing Retail or a related field; experience managing direct reports preferred.
- Post-secondary degree in Business Marketing Communications or a related discipline; equivalent experience considered.
- Proven track record planning and executing multi-channel large-scale events from concept through post-event analysis.
- Experience in retail media publishing or hospitality considered a strong asset)
Competencies / Skills / Attributes
- Strong operational leader with the ability to translate strategy into execution and manage multiple complex workstreams simultaneously.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills; confident presenting to stakeholders and executives.
- Skilled relationship builder with authors publishers vendors and internal partners at all levels.
- Analytical thinker with the ability to interpret event data and surface actionable insights.
- Creative sensibility for on-brand event concepts and marketing materials with strong copywriting instincts.
- Highly proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel PowerPoint Outlook); comfort with social media platforms and event management tools.
- High attention to detail and strong organizational skills; thrives in a fast-paced deadline-driven environment.
- Results-driven self-motivated and solutions-oriented with a bias for action and a hands-on approach.
- Genuine belief in the power of teamwork and a deep understanding of how individual actions affect team and organizational outcomes.
- Customer-obsessed with a commitment to delivering exceptional brand experiences
Other (travel Bilingual etc.)
- Flexible schedule including evenings weekends and holidays
Additional Information :
This posting is for a current opportunity within Indigo.
Indigo uses artificial intelligence (AI) tools to assist with certain aspects of the hiring process such as screening and assessments. These tools support our team but do not replace human judgment. We are committed to using AI responsibly fairly and in compliance with applicable employment and anti-discrimination laws. We regularly review these tools to help prevent bias or discrimination.
At Indigo Diversity Equity Inclusion and Accessibility are core to our values. We integrate these principles into our training policies and hiring practices and continuously evolve to reflect the needs of the communities we serve. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and lived experiences including but not limited to individuals who identify as BIPOC (Black Indigenous and People of Colour) members of the LGBTQIA community and persons with disabilities. If you require an accommodation during the recruitment process please contact Human Resources atÂ
Remote Work :
No
Employment Type :
Full-time
About Company
Dedicated to telling stories and creating experiences, Indigo is always looking for bright, energetic and customer-focused people who can help bring our exciting mission to life in one of our more than 170 Indigo, Indigospirit, Chapters and Coles stores across Canada. We offer a varie ... View more