Programs and Events Manager

The Programs & Events Manager is responsible for the development, execution, and evaluation of ASHBA’s programs, events, and volunteer initiatives. This individual will oversee a wide portfolio of events and community-facing programs, ensuring they deliver meaningful value, enhance member engagement, and align with organizational goals. The Manager will lead event day volunteer strategy and serve as the liaison to related committees and councils, helping foster collaboration and engagement across the Saddlebred community. 

The ideal candidate is a proactive planner, detail-oriented executor, and enthusiastic collaborator with strong organizational and communication skills, preferably with experience in equestrian and/or nonprofit environments. 

Key Responsibilities: 

Program & Event Management 

• Plan, manage, execute, and evaluate all ASHBA programs and events, including but not limited to Awards and Recognition Programs, the Annual Convention & Meeting, Fundraising Events, Learn to Ride for Free, Learn to Drive for Free, and Licensed Official Training and Certification. 

• Manages the Youth Programs & Events Coordinator, who is responsible for leading key initiatives including Youth Activities, Junior Judging, Saddletime, the Youth Club, Youth Awards, the Youth Conference at convention, the Youth Council, Scholarships, and the Academy Awards. 

• Manage logistics for ASHBA events, including vendor selection, registration systems, volunteer coordination, and staffing. 

• Partner with the marketing team to promote programs and events and ensure cohesive marketing and branding. 

• Collaborate with membership and operations teams to deliver seamless event and program execution. 

• Develop and monitor budgets and timelines for all programs and events. 

• Implement systems to collect data, feedback, and insights to improve future offerings. 

Volunteer Program & Event Management 

• Recruit, onboard, and manage volunteers for ASHBA programs, and events. 

• Create and facilitate volunteer orientation and training sessions. 

• Track and report volunteer hours, engagement, and impact. 

Committee Council Liaison 

• Serve as staff liaison to relevant committees and councils. 

• Support committee chairs and council leaders by scheduling meetings, preparing agendas, and tracking action items. 

• Facilitate communication and collaboration between committees, councils, and the ASHBA Board. 

• Ensure committee efforts align with ASHBA’s mission and strategic objectives. 

Administrative Support & Documentation 

• Maintain accurate records of all events, programs, volunteer involvement, and committee activities. 

• Support grant reporting and board updates with relevant data and documentation. 

• Participate in team meetings and provide additional support as needed. 

• Participate in team meetings and professional development activities. 

• Provide support for overall fundraising operations as needed. 

Qualifications & Skills: 

• Bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management, communications, marketing, business, or a related field preferred (or equivalent experience). 

• Minimum of 3+ years of experience in program or event management, preferably in a nonprofit or association setting. 

• Experience in membership engagement, volunteer coordination, or community outreach. 

• Highly organized with strong project management and multitasking skills. 

• Exceptional interpersonal and communication abilities. 

• Proficiency in CRM systems, Microsoft Office, and event registration/project management tools. 

• Experience with social media and online community platforms (e.g., Facebook Groups). 

• Strong customer service skills and comfort handling member inquiries across platforms. 

• Passion for the equestrian industry and familiarity with the American Saddlebred breed is a plus. 

• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and occasional travel for events. 

Why Join ASHBA? 

• Be part of a passionate team dedicated to preserving and promoting the American Saddlebred breed. 

• Work in a dynamic role that allows for creativity and direct impact on membership and volunteer engagement. 

• Engage with a vibrant community of equestrians, enthusiasts, and industry professionals. 

• Opportunities for professional growth and networking within the equestrian world. 

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