Indigo Books & Music is hiring a Manager, Events

The Manager, Events leads the day-to-day execution of Indigo’s events program, translating strategic vision into disciplined operational plans managing 2-3 event coordinators and delivering events that are on time, on brand, and on budget. This role owns end-to-end event production — from national author signings and high-profile celebrity events to the annual programming calendar. The Manager is the connective tissue between strategy and execution: ensuring the coordinator team has clear direction and the tools to succeed, while serving as the primary operational contact for authors, publishers, and cross-functional partners. KEY PERFORMANCE METRICS Event Sales & Profit Event Customers On time execution Author, Publisher & Key Stakeholder Satisfaction Employee Engagement KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES Functional Translate strategic direction into clear execution frameworks, project plans, and delivery timelines across all events — author signings, major events, and national programming Lead the concept and development of all nationally-driven event programming, including cross-functional campaigns Own internal project planning and execution: manage cross-functional workflows, delivery standards, and operational SLAs across the Coordinator team Own budget tracking, forecasting, and financial coordination for the events portfolio; contribute to post-event reporting, insights, and retrospectives Act as the escalation point for operational risks — identifying, mitigating, and surfacing issues to the Senior Manager where required. Lead and chair the Bi-Weekly Events Planning meeting, driving alignment across the coordinator team and cross-functional partners on upcoming events, priorities, and risks. Introduce and lead the Store-Events Monthly Meeting, building a direct feedback loop between the events team and store leaders on execution quality and support needs. Serve as the primary operational contact for Retail Ops, Loss Prevention, Finance & Accounting, General Managers, Store Events Leaders, Creative, Marketing, and Merchants. Ensure execution standards are consistently upheld across all event types, channels, and touchpoints — from planning documentation through to on-site delivery. Identify process gaps and lead improvements to increase operational efficiency and enhance experience for customers, stores, and partners. Train and support stores on the execution of all author signing events Communication Contribute to post-event reporting and retrospectives; surface insights and recommendations to the Senior Manager to inform future planning and investment decisions. Proactively communicate timelines, risks, and deliverable status to cross-functional execution partners, ensuring no surprises on delivery. Champion the customer and store experience in all planning and decision-making, consistently advocating for clarity, quality, and consistency of execution. People Develop a high performing & engaged team Provide feedback and coaching to develop direct reports and mentees Shape and influence team culture to reflect Indigo’s values and direction Empower team members through clear expectations, performance management, and growth opportunities Attract, develop, and retain top talent Act as a mentor & role model, helping others understand the broader impact of their work Foster collaboration and knowledge sharing across teams and functions Ensure team alignment with organizational goals and cultural values Cultural Model Indigo’s Guiding Principles and convey a positive, forward-thinking image Embrace and influence change, fostering a culture resonant of our guiding principles and in particular emphasizing data driven, systems thinking, and customer centric. Celebrate diversity of thought and encourage open dialogue Take an active role in shaping organizational culture through leadership and example SCOPE Reports to: Sr Manager, Events Manager once Removed (MOR): VP, Customer Experience & eCommerce KEY RELATIONSHIPS Internal: Retail Operations General Managers & Store Events Leaders Creative Studio Marketing Merchants Loss Prevention Finance/Accounting External: Publishers Vendors External agencies Venues