Associate Marketing Events Manager

The Associate Marketing Events Manager is responsible for leading the strategy, planning, and execution of experiential marketing initiatives and special events for Starboard Group’s brand partners. This role serves as the primary liaison for event-focused brand activations, managing projects from concept through onboard execution while ensuring all experiences align with brand objectives, guest engagement goals, and Starboard operational standards.

Working cross-functionally with internal teams, external brands, shipboard operations, and vendors, this role oversees the development and execution of branded events, onboard activations, promotional experiences, and special projects designed to elevate the guest experience and drive retail engagement.

What you’ll be doing:

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Serve as the primary point of contact for assigned brand partners related to brand events and experiential marketing initiativesPartner with brands to develop strategic event concepts and activation plans aligned with marketing objectives and guest experience goalsIdentify opportunities to elevate onboard activations through immersive brand experiences and innovative event conceptsCollaborate with brand partners to align event execution with brand standards, messaging, and product prioritiesSupport annual Product Brand Marketing planning discussions related to event marketing opportunities and experiential activationsEvent Development & End-to-End Execution (40%)

Lead the planning and execution of brand events and experiential marketing initiatives from concept through completionManage event-related projects including:Onboard brand activationsProduct launchesPromotional eventsVIP experiencesPersonalized environmentsSpecial retail events and experiential programmingDevelop event timelines, production schedules, briefing documents, and execution plansCoordinate event deliverables across Cruise Line Team, Creative, Production, Merchandising, Shipboard, and vendor teamsOversee creative development, signage, event collateral, digital assets, and onsite execution needsEnsure all event executions meet brand standards, operational requirements, and timeline expectationsPerform quality assurance reviews of all event materials and activation components prior to launchCross-Functional Coordination & Shipboard Communication (15%)

Partner closely with shipboard teams to coordinate logistics, installation requirements, timelines, and event execution detailsCollaborate with internal teams including Creative, Production, Merchandising, CLR, Distribution, and Operations to support flawless executionManage communication between marketing, brands, and shipboard teams throughout event planning and execution phasesCoordinate with vendors and external partners to support event production and delivery needsEvent Reporting, Recaps & Program Support (10%)

Support the collection of Proof of Execution and event documentation for brand partnersAssist in developing post-event recaps, performance summaries, and activation insightsTrack event deliverables, timelines, and execution outcomes to support future planning and optimizationProvide recommendations for improving event execution, guest engagement, and operational efficiencies

What we’re looking for:

Qualifications

Education & Experience

Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Communications, Event Management, Business, or related field4–6 years of experience in experiential marketing, event marketing, brand activations, or integrated campaign managementExperience in the cruise industry preferred, or travel industry a plusExperience working with external brands, vendors, and cross-functional teams required

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Proven ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously from concept through executionExceptional organizational and project management skillsAbility to work effectively in fast-paced, deadline-driven environmentsAbility to problem solve and adapt quickly in dynamic operational environmentsStrong collaboration skills across internal and external teams Travel Requirements

Up to 20% travel, including ship visits, onboard activations, industry events, and brand meetings