Event Specialist - CITY OF MELISSA : Job Details

City of MelissaJob PostingAugust 20, 2024(Open Until Filled)Event Specialist Salary $55,000Cover Letter and Resume Should Accompany the ApplicationGeneral Purpose:Under general direction from the Communications Manager, this position assists in the overall planning and execution of various festivals and events. Coordinates with contractors, sponsors, vendors, volunteers, and staff to ensure each event runs smoothly and efficiently. The position is also crucial in developing and executing marketing strategies to promote city events, manage social media and online presence, and ensures consisting branding and messaging. Additionally, this position will assist with the Special Event Permit Program. Reporting Relationship:Supervision provided by the Communications ManagerSupervision Exercised:NonePosition Type/Expected Hours of Work:This is a full-time, non-exempt position. The days and hours of work are Monday through Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.Examples of Duties:This list is illustrative and does not comprehensively list all of the functions and duties employees perform in this position.

• Proactively generates content for the City's social media accounts by developing quality copy, graphics, images, and video; gathering news, information, and photos; and collecting information from multiple sources on a timely and continuous basis.
• Promotes activities, services, and programs by determining the best way to present the message and the appropriate media channel(s) to use. Requires onsite or site-specific coverage of news and events.
• Research topics and draft scripts for various video projects.
• Supports monitoring and response development for citizen inquiries and comments on social media channels and City email.
• Assists with the City's public website management through regular updates and content creation, including copy and graphics.
• Attends public and/or internal meetings or gatherings to capture and record images and video of presentations and other events for internal purposes or use in City communications.
• Assists with special projects and a wide range of communication tasks as needed or assigned.
• Collaborate with city departments, local organizations, and stakeholders to conceptualize, plan, and execute diverse events that align with the city's goals and values.
• Develop event concepts, themes, and objectives that cater to different target audiences and purposes.
• Prepare comprehensive event plans, including timelines, budgets, vendor coordination, and resource allocation.
• Coordinate event logistics, including site selection, setup, decorations, equipment rental, and technical arrangements (sound, lighting, etc.).
• Liaise with vendors, sponsors, and partners to secure event services, products, and financial support.
• Ensure all necessary permits, licenses, and insurance are obtained for each event, adhering to city regulations.
• Develop and/or distribute event marketing materials, such as flyers, posters, social media content, and press releases.
• Utilize various channels to raise awareness and drive attendance, targeting both residents and visitors.
• Plan and implement strategies to enhance the overall attendee experience, considering accessibility, safety, comfort, and engagement.
• Address concerns and inquiries from event participants, ensuring a positive and memorable experience.
• Develop and aid in the management of event budgets, tracking expenses and revenue to ensure financial sustainability.
• Seek opportunities for cost savings without compromising event quality.
• Conduct post-event evaluations to analyze each event's success, gather feedback from attendees, and identify areas for improvement.
• Use insights gained to refine future event planning and execution.
• Collaborate with local businesses, community groups, schools, and residents to foster a sense of unity and involvement in city events.
• Seek opportunities to align events with the interests and needs of the Melissa community.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:1. Education and Experience a. Bachelor's Degree in Event Management or any related degree preferred. b. Three (3) years increasingly responsible experience in event planning, event management, or related field. Public Sector experience preferred. OR c. An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience that will allow the incumbent to perform the essential functions of the position successfully. 2. Must possess a valid Class C Texas driver's license prior to employment. 3. Must be able to successfully complete a pre-employment drug screening and background check. Physical Demands:

• Ability to stand, sit, and move for extended periods during events and functions.
• Physical agility to set up and dismantle event materials and equipment.
• Proficiency in using standard office equipment, including computers and audio-visual tools.
• Occasional lifting and carrying of event-related materials.
• Environmental factors for indoor and outdoor events, various weather conditions, and working in environments with varying lighting, noise levels, and crowd density.

Work Environment:

• Fast-paced and dynamic environment with a focus on managing multiple projects simultaneously.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, to accommodate events.
• Collaboration with diverse teams and stakeholders.
• Office-based tasks, as well as on-site event coordination.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to convey information clearly and concisely.
• Proficiency in creating and editing content for various platforms, including social media, websites, and promotional materials.
• Strong experience in event planning and coordination, including logistics and vendor management.
• Familiarity with marketing strategies and tactics to enhance event visibility.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Ability to self-start and take on new challenges.
• Proficient in relevant software and tools for communications and event management.
• Creativity and innovation in developing engaging and impactful communication materials.
• Interpersonal skills for effective collaboration with team members, clients, and external partners.
• Adaptability to changing priorities and requirements.
• Knowledge of current trends and best practices in communications and event management.