CDS Flagship Event Manager

Flagship Event Manager Flagship EM Program is designed to grow the future leaders of CDS, who will be the succession plan for future District Managers vacancies. This program is for high-performing, ambitious sales-focused Operators who are ready to lead the future of demo and experiential business, representing CDS in high visibility locations. The Flagship EM will drive future business strategies and be a hub for piloting new company initiatives. They will hone their understanding of our business, be more strategic in planning and execution, and will be customer “experience” focused (for Costco, their Members and our Vendors), and will collaborate across our business units to grow our business, demonstrating best in class. Advantage Sales and Marketing LLC dba Advantage Solutions is one of North America’s leading sales and marketing agencies specializing in outsourced sales, merchandising, category management and marketing services to manufacturers, suppliers and producers of food products and consumer packaged goods. Advantage Solutions services a variety of trade channels including grocery, mass merchandise, specialty, convenience, drug, dollar, club, hardware, consumer electronics and home centers. We bridge the gap between manufacturers and retailers, providing consumers access to the best products available in the marketplace today. ResponsibilitiesMirror partner ethos in operations and customer serviceEnsure operating procedures of the flagship location follow high standards of food safety and customer service excellenceDesign, organize and execute all aspects of daily operations with strong attention to detailNegotiate optimal placement of demonstration cartDevelop and maintain close working relationships with partner and head office teamsDirect all activities in creating successful demonstrationsSelect sales advisors and pair them appropriately to eventsCoach sales advisors on engagement, performance and sample availabilityDrive future business strategies and serve as a hub for piloting new company initiativesFollow all food safety and health and safety protocolsEnsure best equipment for execution of eventsAchieve defined sales objectives through event activationsPrepare daily sales goals and coach teams on how to achieve resultsDiscuss cart placement strategy with partner leadershipCollaborate with sales team on recipe ideas, special events and experiential calendarOrganize and support partner and head office activations or eventsSupport maintenance and ongoing development of corporate governance frameworkEnsure team follows corporate policies and proceduresModel company valuesTrain new event managers on site or at other locations as requiredContribute to succession planning for district manager roleCover territory during district manager absenceQualificationsEducation Requirements: Associate degree or bachelor’s degree (preferred)Experience Requirements: 4–6 years experience in relevant fieldTravel requirement: Some travel expectedSupervisor ResponsibilityDirect Reports: Hires, retains, trains, coaches, guides, directs, and develops direct reports using company-wide processes, tools and resourcesIndirect Reports: May delegate work of others and provide guidance, direction and mentoring to indirect reports Required Knowledge and SkillsCollege diploma or university degree, or equivalent years of experienceComputer skills and ability to learn new applications quicklyPresentation skillsAbility to work independently and prioritize with minimal supervision to meet deadlinesFlexible and adaptable to a high-pressure, changing environmentHigh attention to detailExperience as a team leader with ability to direct, coach and handle sensitive human resource issuesConflict management skillsAbility to work with changing schedule on occasion as required Job Will Remain Open Until Filled