Manager, Events and Community Relations at UnCommon Farms LLC – Brighton, Illinois

We’re looking for a dynamic, detail-oriented, and relationship-driven Manager of Events and Community Relations to lead the planning and execution of programs that bring our member community to life. This role is perfect for an experienced event professional who thrives on managing multiple priorities and is passionate about creating meaningful member experiences.

If you are an organized, creative, and collaborative leader who loves connecting people and building community, this opportunity is for you.

The Team

“UNCOMMON” means being out of the ordinary—rare, extraordinary, unique. At UnCommon Farms, we are unrelenting in our pursuit to build the most valuable community of farmers in North America. Together, we empower farm families to achieve their goals and control their future.

Why You’ll Love This Role

As the Manager of Events and Community Relations, you’ll:

• Lead the end-to-end planning and execution of conferences, peer groups, regional meetings, webinars, and other member-facing events

• Develop and implement strategies to deepen member engagement across in-person and digital platforms

• Manage vendor relationships, event budgets, and logistics with precision and creativity

• Partner closely with marketing, leadership, and internal teams to deliver exceptional member experiences

• Continuously evaluate and improve event processes to increase efficiency and member satisfaction

• Serve as a key point of contact for members, vendors, and stakeholders before, during, and after events

What You’ll Do

Event Planning & Execution

• Conduct research to understand requirements and details for member programs, conferences, peer groups, regional meetings, webinars, and other initiatives

• Manage multiple programs and events simultaneously, overseeing end-to-end planning, timelines, budgets, vendor selection, contracts, logistics, and travel arrangements

• Plan and execute events with close attention to financial, operational, and time constraints, tracking expenses and ensuring cost efficiency

• Oversee all operational aspects of events including venue setup, breakout rooms, invitations, technology, and day-of coordination

Member & Community Engagement

• Assist in developing and implementing member engagement initiatives across multiple platforms, including portals, social media, directories, and events, in collaboration with marketing and leadership

• Build and maintain trusted relationships with members, vendors, and internal stakeholders

• Identify opportunities to enhance the member experience at every touchpoint

Vendor & Budget Management

• Identify, evaluate, and negotiate with vendors for catering, speakers, activities, and services, ensuring quality and favorable terms

• Monitor budgets and ensure events are executed cost-effectively without compromising quality

Process Improvement & Reporting

• Review and evaluate event and engagement processes—including registration systems, member portals, communication tools, and workflows—to identify opportunities for efficiency and improvement

• Maintain project documentation including timelines, budgets, vendor contracts, and post-event evaluations to support continuous improvement

• Provide regular updates to the Director and leadership on event status, outcomes, and key insights

What We’re Looking For

• 5+ years of experience in event planning, community engagement, or membership program coordination

• Demonstrated experience managing budgets, vendors, contracts, and logistics for programs or events

• Proven project management skills, including planning, executing, and overseeing multiple initiatives simultaneously

• Experience with member portals, online platforms, or social media engagement preferred

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Marketing, Hospitality, Event Management, Agribusiness, or related field

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, CRM, and project management tools including Word, PowerPoint, Excel, HubSpot, and Teamwork

• Excellent organizational, communication, negotiating, and multitasking skills

• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build relationships with members, vendors, and internal stakeholders

• Analytical mindset with the ability to evaluate processes, vendors, and engagement strategies

• High attention to detail, adaptability, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment

• Valid driver’s license required; 30–40% travel expected

Why You’ll Love Working at UnCommon Farms

We believe in taking care of our team with a competitive benefits package designed to help you thrive:

• Hybrid Work Environment: This position offers a hybrid work option, combining remote work flexibility with 2 days a week in the office in Brighton, Illinois.

• Comprehensive Coverage: Medical, dental, vision, and more

• Peace of Mind: Company-provided long-term disability, life, and AD&D insurance

• Financial Growth: 401(k) with a 50% company match

• Time to Recharge: 3 weeks of paid vacation, 1 week of paid sick time, and 11 paid holidays

• Casual & Comfortable: Relaxed dress code

• Invest in Your Future: Tuition assistance

Competitive Compensation That Rewards Your Expertise

We offer a compensation package that reflects the scope and impact of this role.

Estimated Salary Range: $85,000-$105,000 per year

*Final offers are based on qualifications, experience, and relevant credentials.

Ready to bring people together and help shape the future of agriculture? Join us in creating extraordinary experiences for the most valuable community of farmers in North America.