Role Overview
The Community Events Manager exists to help Alabama Outdoors show up in our communities in meaningful, memorable ways. This role is responsible for planning, leading, and executing community-driven events that reflect the new AO identity—an active lifestyle brand rooted in people, purpose, and connection.
From large-scale signature events to campus pop-ups and in-store experiences, the Community Events Manager helps ensure AO events feel intentional, welcoming, and aligned with the AO Way.
This role works closely with Store Teams, Marketing, and the Culture & Experience team to bring events to life that drive brand awareness, community engagement, and long-term loyalty.
Core Event Ownership
The Community Events Manager will help lead and support key AO events, including but not limited to:
- Party on the Porch (AO’s flagship community event)
- AO Days (store-specific or market-wide brand moments)
- Campus Events & College Activations
- In-Store Events (brand launches, community nights, workouts, family events)
- Pop-Ups & Local Partnerships
- Community Fitness & Lifestyle Events
- Seasonal & Market-Specific Activations
Key Responsibilities
Event Strategy & Planning
- Plan, organize, and execute AO-led community events across multiple markets
- Help evolve long-standing events (like Party on the Porch) to reflect the new AO brand
- Identify new event opportunities that align with AO’s active lifestyle focus
- Build and maintain a forward-looking event calendar for all locations
Community Partnerships
- Build strong relationships with local gyms, studios, campuses, nonprofits, and brand partners
- Serve as a key point of contact for community collaborators and event partners
- Ensure partnerships feel authentic, mutually beneficial, and aligned with AO values
Brand & Experience Standards
- Ensure every event reflects AO’s updated brand identity, hospitality standards, and culture
- Support stores in creating events that feel elevated, organized, and welcoming
- Act as a brand ambassador at events—setting the tone and experience in real time
Execution & Logistics
- Manage event logistics including staffing needs, supplies, set-up, breakdown, and flow
- Work closely with store leadership to prepare teams for successful events
- Partner with Marketing to support promotion, signage, and storytelling
- Be present and hands-on at key events to lead, troubleshoot, and support
Evaluation & Growth
- Track event performance and attendance
- Gather feedback from guests, store teams, and partners
- Use insights to refine future events and improve execution
Keys to Success in This Role
A successful Community Events Manager at AO will:
- Create Events That Feel Like AO
-Events are warm, organized, people-first, and aligned with the active lifestyle brand. - Build Trust With Store Teams
-Stores feel supported—not burdened—by events and confident in execution. - Show Up as a Leader
-Leads from the front at events, brings energy, and stays calm under pressure. - Balance Creativity & Organization
-Big ideas paired with strong planning, timelines, and follow-through. - Strengthen Community Brand Presence
-AO becomes known as a brand that consistently shows up and invests locally.
Who This Role Is For
- Someone who thrives in people-focused, high-energy environments
- Highly organized, detail-oriented, and adaptable
- Comfortable leading events and working cross-functionally
- Passionate about community, lifestyle brands, and creating experiences
- Willing to work evenings and weekends as needed for events
Execution of Core Events
- Party on the Porch Four Minimum Per Year
- AO DAYS Collabs Six Minimum Per Year
- Campus Connection Events 4 Minimum Per Semester (Eight Per Year)
- Samford, North Alabama, South Alabama, and UAB - In-Store Seasonal Pop-Ups Flex Depending on Marketing Plans
Plan Internal Structured Events
- The Leadership Gathering (Formerly Manager Meeting) (4 Per Year)
Coordinate with Store Support for Monthly Lunch & Learns - BHM Collective Meetings (2-3 Per Year)
- Assist Director of Culture & Experience with SSC Staff Parties
Schedule & Structure
- Office Schedule: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday (30 Hours) 7:30 am-4:00 pm
Flex Schedule on Week of Events
One Hour Lunches Each Day
Remote Work Days as Approved - Based in-market with regular travel to all AO locations
- Reports to the Director of Culture & Experience
Direct Staff Oversight
- Delegate Specific Needs to Store Support Manager
Hotel Booking
Manager Follow-Up - Delegate Staffing Needs to Birmingham General Manager
Birmingham Event Staff Needs - Give Leadership Oversight to Store Managers on In-Store Events