Events & Engagement Manager

Events & Engagement Manager

Harrisonburg-Rockingham Chamber of Commerce
Full-Time | Exempt

Position Summary

The Events & Engagement Manager is responsible for planning, executing, and evaluating a wide variety of Chamber events that drive member value, strengthen business connections, and advance the Chamber’s strategic priorities. This role ensures that events not only deliver exceptional experiences but also align with the Chamber’s mission to foster an environment for community businesses to thrive.

Key Responsibilities

Event Management & Execution

• Plan, coordinate, and execute Chamber events of all sizes, including monthly networking events, ribbon cuttings, annual awards, legislative programs, and signature gatherings.

• Develop engaging and innovative event formats that foster member-to-member connections, promote advocacy, and highlight the Chamber’s role as the voice of business.

• Ensure excellence in logistics: venue selection, vendor coordination, catering, technology, registration, and day-of execution.

• Manage event sponsorship benefits and deliverables, ensuring partners receive full value and recognition.

• Evaluate event performance through member feedback, attendance tracking, and impact reporting.

Member Engagement & Value

• Work with Chamber staff to integrate events with broader member engagement strategies, ensuring events strengthen retention and recruitment.

• Act as a Chamber ambassador at all events, cultivating relationships with members, sponsors, and community partners.

Leadership Program Oversight

• Oversee the Harrisonburg-Rockingham Leadership Program, including session planning, venue bookings, transportation needs, speaker scheduling, curriculum support, and participant engagement.

• Ensure the program provides value to participants and aligns with Chamber strategic priorities.

Strategic Alignment & Support

• Ensure events reflect and advance the Chamber’s three strategic priorities:

• Membership & Engagement – design events that maximize member value and build community.

• Advocacy & Influence – support events that connect business leaders with elected officials, policy makers, and influencers.

• Organizational Sustainability – manage event budgets, sponsorship revenue, and expenditures to ensure strong financial outcomes.

• Collaborate with staff and leadership to set revenue goals for events and monitor financial performance.

• Collaborate with staff to develop event promotion strategies, materials, and digital campaigns.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, hospitality, communications, or related field (equivalent professional experience may be substituted for a degree).

• 3–5 years of experience in event planning, program management, or community engagement—preferably in a Chamber, nonprofit, or membership-based organization.

• Proven ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

• Strong relationship-building, networking, and communication skills.

• Proficient in Microsoft Office and event management platforms (e.g., ChamberMaster, Constant Contact, Eventbrite).

• Availability for early morning and evening events.

• Strong Attention to detail

Preferred Skills

• Familiarity with the Harrisonburg-Rockingham business community.

• Experience with sponsorship development, fundraising events, or advocacy programs.

• Creativity in designing experiences that foster connection and business growth.

• Bilingual ability (Spanish/English preferred).

Compensation

Starting salary Negotiable. This position is entry level to mid-level and offers clear upward mobility within the Chamber, with opportunities for growth in compensation and responsibility based on performance, innovation, and impact.