Events Coordinator/Planner, Community/sponsorship Manager

Position Summary

Big Sky Brewing is seeking a dynamic Events Coordinator/Planner to manage, execute, and enhance our sponsored events and partnerships. This role involves collaborating closely with non-profit organizations, community groups, and private clients to plan and execute both on-site (at the brewery) and off-site events. The ideal candidate is highly organized, has strong communication skills, and a passion for building positive community relationships that reflect and enhance our brand values.

Key Responsibilities

  1. Event Planning & Coordination
    • Work with non-profits, corporate groups, and private clients to plan all aspects of events, from concept to completion.
    • Oversee logistics for on-site and off-site events, including venue setup, vendor coordination, and day-of execution.
    • Develop event timelines, budgets, and task lists to ensure smooth and efficient operations.
  2. Sponsorship & Partnership Management
    • Identify potential sponsorship and partnership opportunities aligned with Big Sky Brewing’s philanthropic and marketing goals.
    • Serve as the primary point of contact for non-profit organizations, community groups, and other external partners.
    • Draft sponsorship agreements and negotiate terms that are mutually beneficial, ensuring brand alignment and ROI.
  3. Community Outreach & Relationship Building
    • Cultivate and maintain relationships with local charities, community leaders, and partner organizations.
    • Represent Big Sky Brewing at community events, networking functions, and charitable activities, serving as a brand ambassador.
    • Collaborate with the marketing and taproom teams to promote sponsored events and charitable initiatives.
  4. Budgeting & Financial Oversight
    • Develop and track event budgets; manage expenses to align with financial targets.
    • Monitor and report on sponsorship ROI, including ticket sales, donations, and brand visibility outcomes.
    • Prepare post-event financial summaries and performance evaluations for internal review.
  5. Marketing & Promotion
    • Work closely with the marketing team to create and distribute promotional materials (social media posts, flyers, press releases).
    • Coordinate with external media and community calendars to maximize event exposure and attendance.
    • Provide relevant content and materials to the digital marketing team for website updates, newsletters, and email campaigns.
  6. Vendor & Stakeholder Management
    • Source, negotiate, and manage contracts with vendors such as caterers, event rental companies, entertainment, and AV technicians.
    • Schedule and supervise any required staff or volunteer teams to ensure adequate coverage at each event.
    • Troubleshoot any on-site issues promptly and professionally, maintaining high levels of customer satisfaction.
  7. Post-Event Evaluation & Reporting
    • Gather and analyze feedback from attendees, partners, and staff to identify successes and areas for improvement.
    • Compile post-event reports, including attendance metrics, fundraising amounts (if applicable), and overall impact.
    • Recommend enhancements to future events, sponsorship packages, or processes based on insights gained.
  8. Other Responsibilities
    • Maintain an up-to-date events calendar and master project schedule.
    • Support other internal events, including taproom gatherings, product launches, and staff celebrations, as needed.
    • Perform additional duties as assigned by management to support departmental or organizational goals.

Qualifications & Requirements

  • Education & Experience
    • Bachelor’s degree in Event Management, Marketing, Communications, Hospitality, or related field preferred (or equivalent work experience).
    • 1–3 years of experience planning and executing events, preferably in a hospitality, brewery, or non-profit environment.
    • Demonstrable track record of coordinating successful sponsorships or partnerships.
  • Skills & Competencies
    • Strong project management and organizational abilities, with keen attention to detail.
    • Excellent verbal and written communication skills; comfortable presenting to and negotiating with stakeholders.
    • Ability to handle multiple priorities under tight deadlines.
    • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint); knowledge of project management or event-planning software is a plus.
    • Familiarity with social media platforms and marketing tactics to promote events.
  • Work Environment & Physical Requirements
    • Combination of office-based planning and on-site event work, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
    • Ability to lift or move up to 25–50 lbs (e.g., moving event supplies, setting up tables/chairs).
    • Occasional travel for off-site events, community outreach, and meetings with partners.
  • Additional Attributes
    • Passion for community engagement, philanthropy, and craft beer.
    • Self-motivated, resourceful, and flexible in dynamic event settings.
    • Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation for off-site events.

Compensation & Benefits

  • Pay: Competitive salary, commensurate with experience.
  • Benefits (depending on full-time status):
    • Health, dental, and vision insurance options.
    • Paid Time Off (PTO) and holidays.
    • 401(k) 
    • Discounts on brewery merchandise and products.
    • Opportunities for professional development and industry-related training.

Taphouse Manager

Position Summary

Big Sky Brewing Company is seeking an experienced, customer-focused Tap house Manager to foster sales growth, lead day-to-day operations and the tap house team. As the Tap house Manager, you will be responsible for creating an exceptional guest experience, overseeing staff, managing inventory, and ensuring that the taproom embodies the Big Sky Brewing brand. The ideal candidate has strong leadership abilities, a solid understanding of craft beer, and a passion for hospitality.

Key Responsibilities

  1. Leadership & Team Management
    • Recruit, train, and schedule tap house staff, including servers and support positions.
    • Foster a positive, team-oriented culture that promotes excellent customer service and brand ambassadorship.
    • Conduct regular performance evaluations, provide coaching, and address any personnel issues in a timely manner.
    • Ensure staff are knowledgeable about Big Sky Brewing products, policies, and procedures.
  2. Customer Experience
    • Oversee daily tap house operations to ensure a welcoming, high-quality experience for all guests.
    • Maintain a strong floor presence during peak hours, greeting guests and assisting staff as needed.
    • Handle escalated customer concerns and resolve issues promptly and professionally.
  3. Operations & Inventory Management
    • Manage tap house inventory, including beer, merchandise, and supplies, to ensure optimal stock levels.
    • Collaborate with the brewing and production teams to monitor beer availability and coordinate special releases.
    • Track sales performance and costs; provide regular reports to leadership to inform decision-making.
    • Maintain and manage Point-of-Sale (POS) systems, ensuring accuracy and efficiency in transactions.
  4. Compliance & Safety
    • Ensure adherence to all local, state, and federal alcohol service regulations and age verification practices.
    • Implement and enforce responsible alcohol service policies, train staff on the same.
    • Maintain a clean, safe, and sanitary tap house environment in compliance with health and safety regulations.
  5. Event Coordination & Promotions
    • Plan and execute events (e.g., beer releases, live music, community fundraisers).
    • Work closely with the marketing team to promote events, special releases, and new products.
    • Engage with the local community and develop partnerships that support brand awareness.
  6. Financial & Administrative Duties
    • Develop and manage the tap house budget, including labor costs and operational expenses.
    • Monitor daily sales, labor reports, and cost-of-goods reports; adjust strategies to meet financial targets.
    • Oversee cash handling and financial reconciliations.
    • Conduct regular audits of registers, inventory, and other financial data to ensure accuracy.
  7. Brand Representation
    • Act as a key ambassador for Big Sky Brewing, reflecting the company’s values and commitment to quality.
    • Maintain positive relationships with distributors, vendors, and industry partners when necessary.
    • Keep current on industry trends, competitor activities, and local market opportunities.
  8. Other Duties as Assigned
    • Assist with periodic off-site events such as beer festivals, tastings, and community outreach initiatives.
    • Collaborate with the leadership team on long-term strategic planning and process improvements.

Qualifications & Requirements

  • Education & Experience
    • High School Diploma or equivalent; Bachelor’s degree in Business Management, Hospitality, or related field preferred.
    • Minimum of 2–3 years’ experience in bar or restaurant management, taproom/brewery experience strongly preferred.
    • Knowledge of craft beer styles, brewing processes, and industry trends.
  • Skills & Abilities
    • Strong leadership and interpersonal skills, with the ability to motivate and manage a diverse team.
    • Excellent organizational and time management skills; ability to handle multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
    • Proficiency in POS systems, Microsoft Office, and basic financial reporting.
    • High level of customer service and problem-solving skills.
  • Physical Requirements
    • Ability to stand and walk for extended periods (up to 8+ hours).
    • Ability to lift and move up to 50 lbs (e.g., kegs, cases of beer).
    • Comfort in a fast-paced environment with varied noise levels.
  • Other Requirements
    • Must be at least 21 years old.
    • Flexible schedule, including availability on evenings, weekends, and holidays.
    • Certification in responsible alcohol service (e.g., TIPS, ServSafe Alcohol) or willingness to obtain upon hire.

Compensation & Benefits

  • Pay: Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
  • Benefits (varies based on employment status):
    • Health, dental, and vision insurance options.
    • Paid time off (PTO) and paid holidays.
    • 401(k) 
    • Generous employee discount on beer, merchandise, and taproom purchases.
    • Opportunities for continued education in craft beer and professional development.

Part-Time Merchandise Buyer

Position Summary

Big Sky Brewing is seeking a detail-oriented and creative Part-Time Merchandise Buyer to curate and manage our merchandise offerings. In this role, you will research and select products that align with our brand, ensure adequate inventory levels, and collaborate with various departments to support promotions and events. The ideal candidate possesses a keen eye for style, strong negotiation skills, and a passion for delivering unique, high-quality merchandise that resonates with our customers.

Key Responsibilities

  1. Product Selection & Sourcing
    • Identify, research, and recommend merchandise items that align with Big Sky Brewing’s brand, target audience, and current trends.
    • Establish and maintain relationships with new and existing suppliers, vendors, and artisans.
    • Negotiate pricing, terms, and delivery schedules to optimize cost savings and product availability.
  2. Inventory Management
    • Track merchandise levels and reorder products as needed to avoid stockouts or overstock situations.
    • Collaborate with the tap house management or retail team to forecast inventory needs, especially for seasonal or special event items.
    • Monitor inventory turnover and product performance, providing regular reports and recommendations for adjustments.
  3. Budgeting & Financials
    • Work within an allocated merchandise budget, ensuring spending aligns with company objectives.
    • Review and analyze sales data to determine product profitability and inform future buying decisions.
    • Maintain accurate records of orders, invoices, and vendor agreements.
  4. Brand Alignment & Quality Control
    • Ensure all merchandise reflects the company’s brand identity, quality standards, and ethical sourcing practices (if applicable).
    • Review samples and prototypes to confirm quality, sizing, and design specifications before placing orders.
    • Provide feedback to vendors on improvements or changes to product designs as needed.
  5. Cross-Functional Collaboration
    • Partner with the marketing, sales, and tap house teams to plan merchandise promotions, displays, and product launches.
    • Communicate product details, pricing, and arrival timelines to relevant staff.
    • Assist in training the tap house or retail team on product features, benefits, and sales techniques.
  6. Market & Trend Analysis
    • Stay up-to-date on industry trends, local market shifts, and competitor merchandise offerings.
    • Conduct periodic market research to discover emerging products and designs that could enhance the merchandise lineup.
    • Recommend innovative ideas to keep Big Sky Brewing’s merchandise selection fresh and appealing.
  7. Additional Duties
    • Participate in off-site events (e.g., festivals, fairs) as needed to research new vendors or assess retail trends.
    • Occasionally assist with inventory counts, product displays, or special projects as assigned.
    • Uphold company values and represent Big Sky Brewing positively in all professional interactions.

Qualifications & Requirements

  • Experience & Education
    • High school diploma or equivalent required; college coursework in business, marketing, or related field is a plus.
    • Previous experience in retail buying, merchandising, or inventory management preferred.
  • Skills & Competencies
    • Strong negotiation and communication skills.
    • Excellent organizational abilities and attention to detail.
    • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word) and familiarity with inventory or POS systems.
    • Ability to analyze sales data, recognize trends, and make data-driven buying decisions.
  • Physical & Scheduling Requirements
    • This position is part-time, typically requiring 15-25 hours per week; schedule flexibility (including occasional weekends or events) is a plus.
    • Ability to lift and move boxes or merchandise up to 25 lbs as needed.
    • Comfortable working in an office and/or retail environment.

Work Environment

  • Primarily an office-based for vendor communication and data analysis, with regular visits to the taproom/retail space.
  • May involve attending local or regional vendor shows, trade events, or festivals to identify new product opportunities.
  • Collaborative atmosphere with the tap house, marketing, and management teams to ensure smooth integration of merchandise offerings.

Compensation & Benefits

  • Pay: Hourly wage commensurate with experience.
  • Benefits (may vary for part-time roles):
    • Employee discounts on merchandise, beer, and other products.
    • Flexible scheduling.
    • Potential for growth or future full-time opportunities based on performance and company needs.

About Big Sky Brewing

Big Sky Brewing is a Montana-based craft brewery known for iconic beers such as Moose Drool Brown Ale. We value community involvement, quality craftsmanship, and genuine hospitality. Join our team and help us create memorable events that support local charities, engage our customers, and celebrate the spirit of craft brewing!

This job description is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of the Events Coordinator/Planner position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of skills, duties, or responsibilities.

 

Posted March 10th, 2025

Apply by sending your resume to: [email protected]