Events & Business Development Manager

We are seeking an Events & Business Development Manager to lead the planning and executing Hidden Valley Orchards’ events business focused on corporate clients, field trips, and other private group gatherings. This role requires a detail-oriented individual with strong people skills, experience in event management, and the ability to oversee a team.

This role is instrumental in fostering meaningful community connections, crafting unforgettable experiences, and enhancing the farm’s reputation as a premier agritourism destination for food and beverage, family activities, retail, and private events. With a focus on excellence, innovation, and a culture of care, the Events & Business Development Manager will drive growth and elevate the farm’s event offerings.

Skills and Requirements:

Leadership & Management

• Lead outreach efforts to book corporate events, school field trips, and private gatherings to increase revenue.
• Work with the General Manager to achieve event and festival budgets.
• Manage event budgets, ensuring cost effective planning and execution while maintaining high standards of quality and service.
• Prepare post-event reports, including evaluations and feedback, to assess event success and identify areas for improvement and lessons learned.
• Ensure efficient office functions, including communication, filing, and record keeping.

Field Trips:

• Serve as the primary contact for schools and educational groups, managing bookings and scheduling.
• Oversee field trip guides and ensure they are trained to deliver the field trip curriculum and guest engagement.
• Develop and maintain an engaging, farm-based educational curriculum in collaboration with farm leadership.
• Ensure a smooth experience for visiting groups, from arrival to departure.

Private Events:

• Manage inquiries, bookings, and logistics for corporate events and large group reservations.
• Coordinate event details, including staffing, setup, and event-specific programming.
• Serve as the on-site contact for event organizers to ensure all needs are met.

General Event Management:

• Maintain an organized event calendar and schedule staff accordingly.
• Oversee event execution, ensuring a high-quality experience for all guests.
• Manage and train a team of event staff and field trip guides.
• Utilize booking, ticketing and customer relationship management software and technology tools to streamline planning and operations.
• Collaborate with the marketing team to promote events and maintain strong relationships with clients.
• Handle any issues that arise during events, ensuring prompt and effective resolutions.
• Flexibility to work weekdays, weekends, and evenings, based on event needs.

Qualifications & Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality, Event Management, Business, or a related field preferred.
• Proven experience in event coordination, hospitality, or business development.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to manage a team effectively.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to engage with schools, corporate clients, and guests.
• Highly organized with strong problem-solving abilities.
• Must be proficient in Google Docs, Google Sheets, and Google Workspace.
• Comfortable using technology and event management software.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, outdoor environment.
• Passion for education, agriculture, or community engagement is a plus.

Benefits:

• Full-time, salaried position
• Access to company benefits package including healthcare
• Flexible hours, including weekends and holidays during non-peak seasons