WHO WE ARE

Robert Sengstacke Abbott, a Georgian native and son of freedman slaves, was formally trained as an attorney. However, upon settling in Chicago, he learned the printing trade and founded a newspaper in 1905, still in publication called the Chicago Defender.

A key part of his distribution network was made up of African American railroad porters, who were highly respected among African Americans – adding to the reputation and credibility of the newspaper. The Chicago Defender is often noted as having played a major role in initiating The Great Migration, during 1915-1919, resulting in approximately 1.3 million African Americans to northern cities

Myiti Sengstacke-Rice now continues the legacy of 4 generations – she was voted President and CEO of the Chicago Defender Charities in February 2017. Under Myiti’s leadership she has since being doing business as the Robert Sengstacke Abbott (RSA) Charities to honor the legacy her family and community.

MISSION

We connect the community to opportunities dedicated to performing arts, education, health, wellness, business training and entrepreneurial development. We strive to unite, empower, improve the quality of life, and enrich families and individuals in our communities.

JOB DESCRIPTION

The Events Coordinator will be responsible for ensuring the success of Chicago Defender Charities events by coordinating the technical, personnel and financial aspects of events while supporting and coordinating with various staff members including the Director of Operations, the Director of Programming and Sponsor Management, and the Events Team.

Role Responsibilities

1. Create a production strategy by coordinating with city officials and contracted vendors.

2. Oversee on-sight logistics by creating site maps, advising and interacting with production staff, and serving as the on-site general contractor.

3. Advise and consult on the selection of materials, systems, and equipment for the event

4. Coordinate efforts of team members including, though not limited to; Parade Coordinator, Festival Coordinator, Production Manager, Sponsor Reps, Stage Managers, Security Team, Marshals, Audio Engineers, Event Managers, Vendor Coordinator, Marketing Team, Talent Manager, etc.

5. Build an operations team, including front of house, back of house, stage managers, audio engineers, video and lighting team.

6. Manage the Event Budget and general administration by assisting with Permits and Licenses, creation of event credentials, hiring personnel, booking talent, as well as arranging and overseeing artist transportation and hospitality.

7. Creating and managing staff "day of" logistical plans.

Role Qualifications

• High School diploma required; advanced degree preferred

• 2+ years direct experience in live events and festivals 

• Proven ability to remain calm and professional in all situations

• Thorough understanding of various aspects of event production

• Well versed in Microsoft Office Suite and Google products

• Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously

• Ability to make clear and concise decisions, sometimes with limited information

• Must possess superior interpersonal communication and organizational skills

• Position requires constant walking, climbing stairs and lifting up to 75lbs

• Excellent communication and presentation skills with technical, non-technical and executive audiences

• Proven ability to project a professional image by working steadily, being a team player and being responsible for personal actions
  

  Timeline: Three (3) Month Project, June – August
  Work Location: Remote, in-person meetings as scheduled 
  Compensation: $5,000