Veterans Events Manager

Company DescriptionThe Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce and Convention & Visitors Bureau is committed to fostering a viable economic and environmental climate that enhances the quality of life for our community, visitors, and future. We strive to deliver value-added benefits and partnership opportunities to increase exposure and enhance business returns and success.Position Overview:The Veterans Events Manager serves as the central point of contact for Veteran-focused events, initiatives, and community engagement efforts within the CVB. Objectives for this role include: increasing visitation from Veterans, their families, and their supporters by planning and executing meaningful events, managing Veteran-related committees and task forces, supporting military group sales efforts, collaboration on Veteran specific marketing efforts, and fostering strong relationships with Veteran organizations, stakeholders, and community partners.Working closely with the City of Branson, this position is designed to ensure that all Veteran-centered initiatives align with our organizations’ shared mission while delivering exceptional experiences for Veterans, their families, and visiting military groups. The ideal candidate combines strategic planning, unparalleled organizational skills, enthusiastic and professional communication, and a passion for serving the Veteran community.This role also emphasizes collaboration and connection, serving as a bridge between departments, partners, and community groups to ensure seamless communication, effective resource sharing, and alignment of goals. Networking is a critical element of this position, with the Veterans Event Manager expected to cultivate relationships not only locally but also at the state and regional levels, continually expanding their influence and connections. Furthermore, they should actively seek opportunities to engage with national influencers and key figures, building partnerships that elevate Branson’s profile on a broader scale. Ultimately, this role carries the meaningful mission of positioning Branson as the most hospitable and patriotic destination in the United States, creating a lasting impact on every visitor who experiences its dedication to honoring Veterans and their families.Key Responsibilities:There are four areas where this candidate will have key responsibilities: Community Engagement & Networking, Sales, Marketing, Events, and Reporting. Each is equally important, the candidate who succeeds in this role treats each element with equal respect and diligence. Community Engagement & Networking  Champion Branson’s identity as hospitable and patriotic, ensuring every event, interaction, and initiative reflects this mission and leaves a lasting impression on visitors.  Advocate for Veteran-friendly events and activities across the community, encouraging businesses, partners, and stakeholders to adopt practices that prioritize and honor Veterans and active duty military.  Serve as a spokesperson for Veteran-related events and efforts, representing Branson with professionalism, passion, and authenticity in public appearances, presentations, and media engagements.  Build and maintain strong relationships with Veteran organizations, military groups, and community partners, fostering trust, collaboration, and long-term partnerships.  Serve as the primary liaison for Veteran-related committees and task forces, ensuring seamless communication, productive meetings, and consistent follow-through on action items.  Actively engage with national influencers, key stakeholders, and industry leaders to elevate Branson’s profile and create opportunities for meaningful partnerships.Sales  The creation, promotion, and sale of Veteran Events Sponsorships. You will be responsible for selling sponsorships for our flagship event, Rally Point Branson, held in June 2026.  Support military group sales efforts and event bookings by collaborating closely with the SMERF (social, military, educational, fraternal) Market Sales Manager to attract Veteran groups, military reunions, and conferences to Branson.  Crosstrain with the SMERF Market Sales Manager to ensure seamless coverage during absences or vacations and maintain continuity in military sales efforts.  Develop a deep understanding of military reunions, including those for WW2, Korea, Vietnam, and other groups, to address their unique needs and preferences for accommodations, dining, and attractions.  Strategically grow and develop opportunities for younger Veterans, particularly those from the Global War on Terror, who have shown different patterns of engagement with reunion-style events.  Assist with creating customized sales proposals and presentations tailored to military groups and Veteran-focused conferences.  Proactively pursue sponsorships and strategic partnerships to enhance the scope, reach, and success of Veteran-focused events and initiatives.Marketing  Collaborate with the Marketing Team on Veteran-specific promotional campaigns, ensuring consistent messaging and strategic outreach across all platforms.  Actively participate in the HIVE productivity program (in-house organization platform) to ensure timely and efficient completion of marketing requests and design efforts. Learn and navigate this internal system with other tools to submit requests to implement website updates, videos, posters, and other promotional materials.  Identify opportunities for filming and photography during events, coordinating with the Marketing Team to ensure unique and high-quality content is captured and shared effectively.Event Planning  Take a leadership role in planning and executing Rally Point Branson, with the expectation to fully spearhead this flagship event by year three.  Drive preparations for the United States’s 250th Anniversary in 2026, ensuring Veteran efforts are front and center throughout the entire year.  Coordinate with existing organizations and manage Veterans Appreciation Month activities with creativity and attention to detail, delivering impactful programs throughout May.  Coordinate with existing organizations the programming for Veterans Week events, ensuring a balance of meaningful ceremonies, engaging activities, and community involvement.  Enhance the Veterans Village experience where possible.  Brainstorm fresh, innovative ideas with colleagues to elevate existing Veteran-focused events and introduce engaging new efforts.  Design and execute new events with marketing for other Veteran-centered holidays and memorials throughout the year.  In coordination with the Chamber of Commerce develop and manage local awards and recognition programs to honor businesses, shows, and community partners who demonstrate exceptional commitment to serving Veterans.Reporting & Accountability  Collaborate with the team to track and report on key event metrics, ensuring accurate documentation and data-driven decision-making.  Measure and report the economic impact of Veteran-focused events, providing valuable insights to guide future planning and resource allocation.  Implement surveys and report on attendee satisfaction results.  Maintain accurate documentation of partnerships, event outcomes, and key activities to ensure transparency and alignment with organizational goals.  Managing expenses within a budget framework provided by the Director of Sales & Operations. Ensuring events and initiatives do not exceed the budget.Special Characteristics and Abilities: Proactive Approach: Must be a self-starter with the confidence to chart their own course in a newly established role, capable of taking initiative and making informed decisions without waiting for constant direction. Exceptional Organization: Must be highly organized and detail-oriented, with the ability to effectively manage multiple priorities in a structured and efficient manner. Strong Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication abilities are essential, with a focus on developing strong public speaking skills and delivering impactful presentations. Collaborative and Adaptable: Must possess a friendly, enthusiastic demeanor and the ability to work effectively across diverse teams and personality types while maintaining positive rapport. Creativity: Ability to brainstorm with senior staff and contribute to strategic planning. Calm Under Pressure: Able to remain composed and adaptable in high-pressure situations while maintaining focus on achieving objectives. Commitment to Excellence: Demonstrates a customer-focused mindset and a commitment to delivering exceptional results in every task and interaction. Passion for Veterans: A genuine and deep passion for serving and honoring the Veteran community is fundamental to success in this role.Qualifications  High school diploma required; higher education strongly preferred. 5 Years of event planning and military focused event experience will be considered if a higher educational degree is not on record.  Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook) with experience using AI platforms.  Customer service, hospitality, and community engagement efforts are all preferred.   Must have a valid driver’s license. Must be free to travel as needed to carry out organizational goals.