Account Manager, XM

The Account Manager is primarily responsible for the design, management and event execution at various locations nationally including stores, events, and pop-ups. This position will require creating and activating fully integrated marketing campaigns that bring clients brands to life in a variety of ways through event marketing, PR stunts, regional and national events and samplings. The Account Manager position will include event planning, event implementation, vendor negotiation/management, budget development and tracking, and creation of marketing and measurement plans. The incumbent will manage these promotions as they go live, be a loyal brand advocate and work closely with your direct reports and vendors to consistently exceed expectations. Define, monitor and give feedback on key performance metrics, provide overall direction to the team and take appropriate actions when metrics are not met; Work with direct reports and internal support services to ensure that the services are aligned to deliver the perfect visit and that the services are effectively delivered; Set the short and long term strategic direction for the team and identify the necessary services and resources required to implement the strategy; Continually look for opportunities to grow revenue and gross margin with existing client; Work within team and Directors to identify and implement best practices; Identify venues and assist in multi-market site selection and negotiation; Negotiate and manage vendors to ensure flawless execution and ensure optimum return on cost; Administrative oversight (HR, recruiting, accounting, legal); Serve as the primary contact for National and regional clients; Provide weekly status updates on program results/personnel, client program reporting and reviews; Direct management of 2-3 individuals and indirect management of 30+; Coordination of event logistics (properties, staff, routing, etc.); Challenge and manage a team of in-field Market Managers as well as an in-house team of account managers; Be responsible for operational and financial performance and for organic growth of a single program or multiple small programs; Work closely with other key account team partners to determine meaningful business metrics for the program and help to build reporting around it to drive the business; Crisis management - identify field issues and develop solutions; Tracking and maintaining all event budgets, responsible for the bottom line delivery of your project; Drive revenue growth with existing clients and generate new business opportunities; and Miscellaneous duties as assigned. Bachelor’s (or Master’s) Degree in Business, Marketing or related field; 4 or more years of management experience in a experiential marketing/event marketing environment; Beverage/alcohol experience is a plus. In retail sampling experience is a plus. Access to a vehicle with a G2 or G class license is required. Ability to work flexible hours including overnight travel, evenings and weekends. Proven success in senior level client relationship development, management, retention and growth; Outstanding organizational skills, attention to detail, project management experience, and prioritization of tasks Superior interpersonal skills to work closely with other team members and the client; Experience managing a multi-market team of Market Managers/Event Managers; and Previous experience dealing with partner agencies. Professional attitude and strong leadership skills; Strong client communication skills (insight, analysis, and program reporting); Solid understanding of social media tools and digital platforms; Strong computer application skills (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and ability to work in a digital work environment