Address
Form of workHospitality and Event Manager
Hooker Furniture Corporation, in its 99th year of business, is a designer, marketer and importer of case goods (wooden and metal furniture), leather furniture, accessories, and fabric-upholstered furniture for the residential, Hospitality and contract markets.
Based in Martinsville, VA with administrative offices in High Point, NC, domestic production facilities in Hickory, NC
and Bedford, VA and distribution warehouses in Martinsville, VA, Savannah, GA, Hooker Furniture is ranked among the nation’s largest publicly traded furniture sources. Hooker Furniture also operates multiple showrooms in High Point, NC, Atlanta, GA, and Las Vegas NV, and administrative offices in Vietnam and China.
The Position
Hooker Furnishings Corporation is seeking a dynamic and experienced Hospitality and Event Manager to join our team. This role is pivotal in planning, organizing, and overseeing all corporate events, with a specific focus on the furniture industry's semi-annual and regional markets. The ideal candidate will work under the direction of the Chief Marketing Officer and be adept in enhancing the brand's presence and engagement within the industry through exceptional event management and hospitality services.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Event Planning and Execution:
• Lead the planning and execution of corporate events, with a special emphasis on semiannual and regional furniture markets.
• Oversee logistics for including (where applicable) venue selection, display setup, product showcasing, catering, and transportation.
• Coordinate with the marketing team to ensure brand consistency and effective promotion of Hooker Furnishings at industry events.
2. Furniture Market Management:
• Strategically plan and execute Hooker Furnishings’ presence at major furniture markets, ensuring the brand stands out and effectively connects with clients and industry partners.
• Manage all catering and bar operations for up to three meals a day for up to 1,200 to 1,500 guests (High Point Market) and a smaller number of attendees at regional markets in Las Vegas and Atlanta; Also planning and execution of any parties or special events as may be considered from time to time.
• Responsible for oversight of corporate participation in key industry events such as City of Hope, HF Hall of Fame, and other industry-specific gatherings where our company would be represented.
3. Hospitality and Guest Relations:
• Provide top-tier hospitality services for clients, partners, and VIP guests attending events and furniture markets.
• Manage arrangements for accommodations, exclusive tours, and special events tailored for key clients and stakeholders.
• Work with other key stakeholders and executive team on various aspects and execution of events including board of director meetings, shareholder’s meetings, executive retreats, corporate parties (July 4th, Christmas, etc.), and other potential events held at various business unit locations.
4. Vendor and Venue Coordination:
• Build and maintain relationships with vendors, event organizers, and venue managers specific to the furniture industry.
• Negotiate contracts and manage relationships to ensure favorable terms and high-quality services.
• Arrange and/or hire staffing as may be needed from time to time for events (servers, bartenders, security, etc.)
5. Team Management and Collaboration:
• Lead and inspire the marketing support team, fostering a collaborative environment.
• Work closely with various departments, including marketing, sales, and design, to ensure a cohesive approach to events and market activities.
6. Budget Management:
• Develop and manage event budgets, ensuring cost-effective solutions without compromising on quality and impact.
Qualifications:
• Bachelor’s degree in Event Management, Marketing, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in event management, preferably in the furniture or related industry.
• In-depth knowledge of the furniture market and its trends.
• Exceptional organizational and project management skills.
• Strong leadership capabilities and experience in vendor team management.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Willingness to travel and work flexible hours as required by event schedules.
Personal Attributes:
• Creative, strategic thinker with a passion for the furniture industry.
• Strong networking and relationship-building skills.
• Resilient and able to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
• Detail-oriented with a commitment to excellence.
Work Environment:
This role is based in either High Point, NC or Martinsville, VA with frequent travel to various event locations and furniture markets. The role includes both office-based work and on-site event management.
Why should you apply?
- Competitive compensation and bonus plan
- Successful and stable organization for over 95 years
- Multinational, global organization with 11 locations in the US and offices in Vietnam and China
- A caring, family-focused culture
- Strong corporate initiatives to continue to grow the organization
- A culture that encourages forward-thinking, team-building and creative problem solving
- Career development focus including training opportunities and leadership development programs
- Tuition reimbursement program
- Emphasis on charitable giving and volunteering in our communities
- A company committed to DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) values
- Focus on ESG (Environmental, Social, and Corporate Governance)
- Comprehensive medical, dental, vision plans including a generous employer health saving account (HSA) contribution each plan year
- Matching 401k employer contributions
