Event Specialist

Location: Columbus, OH

Hours: Full-Time (Tuesday-Friday office hours, weekend work required)

About RacePenguin:

At RacePenguin, our mission is to support clients—from small nonprofit fundraisers to large-scale events like Pelotonia & The Air Force Marathon—with exceptional services that allow them to grow their races and provide participants with fun and engaging race-day experiences. Founded in 2013, RacePenguin is the largest race timing company in Ohio, managing over 150 running, cycling, Cross Country, and Track & Field events each year across the nation with cutting-edge technology, professionalism, and passion.

Position Description:

We seek a dynamic and motivated individual to join our team as a Timer and Event Specialist. This role will play a vital part in supporting our clients and race-day operations for a rapidly growing company. The ideal candidate will be interested in live in-person events, have strong organizational and interpersonal skills, and be eager to learn about the endurance sports industry.

Key Responsibilities:

Event Coordination & Logistics
• Learn technology for timing endurance sports events (including track, cross country, road running, cycling, etc).
• Lead event coordination in various aspects:
• Setting up race timing equipment, sound systems, and participant check-in areas.
• Managing race-day data entry and participant updates.
• Help with race day logistics to ensure smooth operations.
• Driving company vehicles to event sites
• Including work vans and trucks with small trailers (previous trailer driving experience not required)
• Manage the purchase of shirts, finisher medals, custom bibs, banners, and all race-related items for contract race customers and RP/Partner-owned events.
• Manage RacePenguin-owned events, including:
• Securing sponsorship sales.
• Engaging in logistic discussions with city police, parks departments, and other relevant agencies.
• Coordinating with charities to acquire volunteers.

Communications/Social Media Management
• Manage and Monitor Meta Business Suite, running multiple social media accounts through Instagram & Facebook.
• Create a schedule and manage engaging posts on social platforms
• Monitor audience interactions, respond to comments, and analyze performance metrics.
• Send monthly newsletters to the RacePenguin database.

Office Management & Customer Service
• Assist in the management of the Columbus office, including:
• Managing inventory of fixed and consumable goods.
• Preparing, updating, and maintaining equipment.
• Performing basic cleaning and maintenance to ensure the office operates efficiently.
• Provide front-line customer service for RacePenguin’s websites, registration platforms, and client and runner inquiries.

Corporate Sponsorship & Sales Support
• Provide sales documentation and engage in sales discussions with prospective clients to sell RacePenguin services.
• Reach out to businesses and corporations to help build relationships and secure sponsorships for RacePenguin-produced events.

Skills:
• Basic Computer and technology acuity
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Microsoft Office Suite Knowledge, including Excel & Word
• Basic experience with Canva, photoshop, or other design tools
• Ability to work well in a team environment and to lead part-time employees while at an event
• Interpersonal skills to help develop relationships with clients, vendors, and runners

Qualifications:
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in sports management, business administration, marketing, event management, hospitality, or other related fields.
• Valid U.S. driver’s license with the ability to drive small vans, pickup trucks, and other vehicles.
• Comfortable working with technology and learning new software
• Ability to work under pressure in fast-paced environments
• Capable of lifting to and over 50lbs

Compensation & Perks:
• Salary: Starting at $45,000
• Benefits Package: Includes health insurance, paid time off, and retirement plan options.
• Additional Perks:
• Employee discount at Fleet Feet Sports Columbus (40% off shoes and apparel).
• Opportunity to participate in RacePenguin staff appreciation events.

Join RacePenguin and be part of a growing company that brings exciting events to life!