Event Manager

Event Manager – Robert Young Estate Vineyards & Winery
Robert Young Estate Winery is a luxury, 448‑acre family‑owned estate in Alexander Valley just 15 minutes from Healdsburg. Seeking an experienced and dynamic Event Manager to drive luxury event revenue on the estate.

Job Description
In this role, the Event Manager works autonomously for prospecting, selling, booking contracts and tracking financial results. On the day of events, the manager is supported by an in‑house team for event execution, with frequent involvement of the family and winemaker to elevate the client experience. The ideal candidate is creative, passionate about delivering high‑touch luxury hospitality, and able to juggle multiple tasks in a fast‑paced environment.

Key Responsibilities

Manage the end‑to‑end sales cycle, including prospecting, site visits, tastings for potential clients, proposal creation, contract negotiation, closing and exceptional day‑of execution.
Drive event bookings through targeted outreach to event planners, destination management companies, corporate clients, hospitality partners, and nurture relationships with existing customers, event organizers, wedding planners, and community leaders.
Sell and secure corporate, trade, and consumer events to meet and exceed quarterly and annual revenue targets; develop and oversee approximately five internal RYEW events for members.
Prepare customized and detailed proposals, including design schematics, timelines, services, food and beverage, and staffing.
Maintain clear and timely communication with clients throughout planning and execution; respond to inquiries within 24 hours and handle changes professionally.
Partner with the client’s event specialist to optimize events and exceed expectations, seeking creative ways to fulfill client desires.
Communicate event bookings and details with internal team members.
Follow up with clients post‑event to ensure satisfaction, encourage repeat business, and generate referrals.
Utilize computer applications; proficiency in Excel, Word, WineDirect Admin/POS, Red Chirp, and Tock is required.

Strategic Planning, Budgeting & ROI

Develop an annual event sales strategy, including target‑market analysis, competitive positioning and growth forecasting.
Manage and stay within annual ROI goals for events; monitor expenses, perform ROI analyses, and ensure profitability.
Deliver monthly reporting to winery leadership, detailing event ROI, financial performance, sales pipeline status, key trends, and growth opportunities.

Partnership Development

Expand and strengthen high‑value partnerships with luxury resorts, boutique hotels, transportation companies, DMCs, and corporate groups.
Create collaborative programs that drive high‑value corporate and high‑end group events to RYEW, including immersive experiences on the estate.
Develop strategic vendor partnerships and negotiate costs with preferred suppliers to optimize event profitability.
Represent RYEW at industry events and community endeavors; attend off‑site networking events.

Qualifications

Minimum 2 years of proven success in corporate or group event sales and business development within luxury hospitality, wineries, or destination venues.
Demonstrated track record of meeting or exceeding annual revenue targets and managing event budgets; financial acumen for ROI tracking.
Established network of destination management companies, corporate event planners, and luxury resort contacts.
Knowledgeable about Sonoma/Napa luxury resorts.

Experience required: remote work capability with occasional on‑site visits, staff meetings, and event execution. Flexible schedule; will occasionally work weekends, evenings, and holidays.