Events & Logistics Manager

ABOUT OUR COMPANY

Event Marketing Strategies (EMS) is an experiential marketing agency, helping companies to create unique and memorable connections with their audience.

Events & Logistics Manager | Columbus, OH | Hybrid | Full-Time

The Events & Logistics Manager leads event logistics, planning, and on-site execution for EMS experiential marketing programs. From initial research and implementation through activation and post-event, this role manages logistics plans, event layouts, staffing schedules, and post-event recaps. This role also supervises the Field Assets & Inventory Coordinator, ensuring that warehouse and inventory operations remain aligned with upcoming event needs. You will thrive in this role if you excel at client-facing planning, managing complex logistics, and leading Brand Ambassadors to successful execution.

• Conduct event and venue research based on priority criteria established by the client, obtaining detailed information, and summarizing research to make recommendations
• Identify and maintain a database of preferred vendors suited to specific event needs
• Develop and maintain the master event logistics calendar in coordination with the project team

• Serve as the primary contact for event and venue properties, securing venue and display space, negotiating access fees and event contracts, and obtaining requirements
• Develop client project overviews and continuously update event plans and logistics documents as details are confirmed throughout the project
• Lead site visits, take footprint measurements, and develop booth display and/or event layouts, incorporating feedback and updates provided by the client and project team
• Create event logistics documentation including key details, staffing schedules, run of show, display checklists, and travel and expense details; deliver to field team and client for every event
• Direct the Field Assets & Inventory Coordinator on asset preparation, staging timelines, and warehouse priorities in advance of each activation
• Review inventory reports and display checklists submitted by the Field Assets & Inventory Coordinator; ensure asset readiness prior to each event
• Prepare for event activations, including setting up the field team and client surveys, photo folders, charging technology, and obtaining access credentials, tickets, and apparel to distribute to the field team

• Oversee setup and teardown of display elements, signage, and event materials
• Ensure the field team meets performance expectations and provides real-time support
• Communicate live-event updates and images to the project team, escalating issues as needed
• Travel, as needed, to event sites locally and nationally to ensure successful execution

• Direct the Field Assets & Inventory Coordinator to receive and assess returned assets; review damage and depletion reports and authorize replacements as needed
• Secure and review post-event data, including survey analysis, field team feedback, and client results
• Compile post-event and comprehensive recaps summarizing results (photos, attendance, feedback) for the client following events and experiential programs

• Screen, interview, and hire candidates for Field Team Lead and Ambassador roles
• Develop and compile training materials and documents to ensure the field team is properly prepared for every client activation
• Compile materials for and host field team event logistics calls
• Supervise, direct, and provide feedback to the Field Assets & Inventory Coordinator; conduct regular check-ins and performance reviews
• Review and approve field marketing team time sheets and expenses in coordination with Accounting and Administrative support
• Identify areas for improvement in field team and warehouse operations; propose and implement solutions

• Maintain professional and technical knowledge by attending workshops, seminars, and conferences; reviewing industry publications; and participating in professional networks
• Actively participate in team meetings including regular staff meetings, brainstorms, project development, and review sessions
• Support other functions of the organization as requested

• Minimum five (5) years of experience in a similar role managing events, logistics, and coordination of Field Team/Brand Ambassadors
• Demonstrated experience managing or supervising support staff or contractors
• Exceptionally organized with strong attention to detail; thrives on detailed logistics, inventory oversight, and event execution
• Personable, positive, and hard-working with an outgoing and collaborative approach
• Strong verbal, written, email, and presentation communication skills
• Confident multitasker with the ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines across multiple projects
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, Asana, and Adobe Creative Suite
• Ability to travel throughout Ohio, and potentially nationally, including some weekends