Special Events Manager

Through interdepartmental coordination, permitting, on-site management, and hospitality solutions, the Office of Special Events champions the creation of inclusive experiences that celebrate the city's identity and make Raleigh a destination for entertainment. The Special Events Manager is an integral position responsible for managing event logistics and coordinating city permitted special events. The City of Raleigh hosts and celebrates hundreds of events annually, ranging from festivals and parades to road races and block parties. The office serves as a central point of contact for event management and compliance, including oversight of all aspects of special event requests that involve use of City streets, public plazas, greenways, and designated parks.

Key responsibilities include evaluating special event requests to ensure alignment with City priorities, addressing potential impacts, and identifying any hazards or threats. The role also oversees all components of event planning, logistics, resource management, and emergency response operations. As a liaison between City staff, event organizers, and the community, the incumbent will facilitate conflict resolution and ensure smooth coordination. Additionally, during select events, the position requires serving in the City's Command Post to monitor and manage any potential crisis situations. This work is essential in safeguarding the health, safety, and welfare of both residents and visitors while providing a transparent and accountable process for event organizers.

Candidates must submit a resume and cover letter detailing how their education and experience have prepared them for this role. Applications missing a resume or cover letter will not be evaluated.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Evaluates special events requests to ensure alignment with City goals and priorities, assesses impact to the community, and identifies potential safety risks or hazards
• Processes event requests and manages the permit process. Determines appropriate event locations and schedules, and approves communications, logistics and safety plans
• Oversees the planning, logistics and resource management of special events; attends events to ensure compliance with permits; identifies and addresses issues posing public safety or health risks; and evaluates event success while providing actionable recommendations for future planning
• Acts as a liaison between City staff, event organizers, and the community; coordinates and attends planning meetings; negotiates terms and conditions; resolves conflict; and manages cross-functional projects with both internal and external stakeholders
• Analyzes and evaluates office operations and business processes; reviews, recommends, and implements improvements to policies, procedures, and workflows; leads initiatives to drive operational efficiencies
• Participates in meetings and collaborates with advisory groups; provides guidance on event management; prepares and delivers presentations to share insights and recommendations
• Nighttime/weekend hours may be frequent

Typical Qualifications

Education and Experience:

Bachelor’s Degree in event management, hospitality management, recreation, leisure services, communications, public or business administration or at least three years of directly related field experience in special events

OR

An equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job such as those listed above, unless otherwise subject to any other requirements set forth in law or regulation.

Licensing and Certifications:

• Valid North Carolina Class C Driver’s license with a satisfactory driving record, or the ability to obtain within 60 days of hire