Event & Partnership Specialist

The Little Village Chamber of Commerce (LVCC), established in 1989, is a prominent organization dedicated to representing and supporting the interests of local businesses and the broader bilingual business community throughout the Chicago area. With a strong commitment to fostering economic development, LVCC champions initiatives that drive sustainable growth while celebrating the vibrant cultural identity of Little Village, often affectionately referred to as "La Villita." LVCC serves as a critical resource for business owners by offering tailored programs, services, and advocacy efforts that promote a thriving and inclusive business environment.

As a bilingual organization rooted in community values, LVCC plays a pivotal role in connecting business owners to opportunities, partnerships, and resources that elevate the district's economic vitality. Over the years, the Chamber has become a trusted voice in the community, bridging the gap between businesses, government entities, and residents to foster a sense of cooperation and shared success.

The position of Events & Partnerships Specialist at the Little Village Chamber of Commerce is an integral role designed to plan, coordinate, and execute some of the organization’s most signature events and community activations. This role reports directly to the leadership team and acts as the primary point of contact for event logistics, partnership development, sponsorship cultivation, volunteer coordination, and on-site event management. The Specialist is also responsible for representing both LVCC and Special Service Area (SSA) #25 within the community, ensuring high levels of engagement and collaboration with stakeholders, businesses, and residents.

This full-time position offers a salary range of $60,000 to $70,000 annually, dependent on experience, and includes eligibility for commission on sponsorship revenue generated. The work schedule is 40 hours per week, with the necessity for evening and weekend availability during peak event periods. The position requires a strong in-person presence in Little Village, ideal for candidates who value community involvement and on-the-ground engagement.

In this role, the Events & Partnerships Specialist will lead major event efforts such as the Golf Fiesta, the 26th Street Mexican Independence Day Parade and VIP Breakfast, the Holiday Posada & Toy Drive, and various business networking events and special initiatives. They will also coordinate efforts connected with SSA #25 events and activities, overseeing all facets of event logistics, including venue management, permits, vendors, entertainment, catering, transportation, registration, signage, and audiovisual requirements.

Furthermore, the Specialist will manage volunteer recruitment, training, and coordination to ensure smooth event execution. Managing event timelines, budgets, production schedules, and post-event evaluations will be key tasks to ensure each event runs efficiently, within budget, and aligns with the Chamber’s goals.

In addition to event management, the role involves cultivating strong partnerships and sponsorships. This includes the identification, solicitation, and securing of sponsorships and partnerships crucial to supporting the LVCC's programming and impact. The Specialist will maintain ongoing communication with sponsors and partners to guarantee mutually beneficial relationships and fulfillment of sponsorship agreements.

Marketing and community engagement are also important elements of the role. Collaborating with the marketing team, the Specialist will help develop promotional strategies and outreach efforts that increase event attendance and community participation. They will assist in creating event materials, presentations, and sponsor collateral, enhancing the visibility and success of LVCC initiatives.

A strong financial acumen is necessary, as the Specialist will track event budgets, invoices, contracts, and expenses, as well as assist with revenue tracking for sponsorships, ticket sales, and fundraising activities. They will conduct post-event evaluations, preparing comprehensive reports on attendance, outcomes, and recommendations to improve future events.

Ideal candidates will possess a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in Event Management, Hospitality, Communications, Business, Marketing, or related fields, with 4-6 years of professional experience in event planning, partnership or sponsorship development, fundraising, or community engagement. Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish, both written and verbal, is a requirement given the Chamber's bilingual community focus. The ability to independently manage projects while collaborating with diverse stakeholders is essential, as is familiarity with Google Workspace, event platforms, CRM systems, and project management tools.

The Little Village Chamber of Commerce offers a dynamic work environment where community involvement and business development intersect. This role provides an excellent opportunity for professionals passionate about community engagement, event management, and partnership cultivation to make a meaningful impact in a culturally rich and economically vibrant neighborhood.