Event Manager

Be the energy behind Downtown Wabash, Indiana’s unforgettable events!

Are you passionate about creating meaningful experiences that bring people together? Do you have a knack for organizing unforgettable events, analyzing data to improve them, and marketing them to perfection? If so, Downtown Wabash, Inc. is looking for you to join our team as the Events Manager!

Who We Are

Downtown Wabash, Inc is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering growth, innovation and cultural enrichment in historic downtown Wabash, Indiana. Since 1981, we’ve been at the forefront of revitalizing the downtown of our rural community, creating opportunities for businesses and spearheading initiatives that make Wabash a destination to thrive.

We are proud to call Wabash one of Indiana’s Cultural Districts, a designation reserved for communities with rich art, culture and historic character. From iconic landmarks and public art to boutique shops and a world-class performing arts center, our vibrant downtown is alive with history, charm and innovation.

What We Do

Downtown Wabash, Inc. is the creative force behind cherished community events like First Fridays, where thousands gather to celebrate local food, music, and art; and the Farmers Market, which brings fresh, local handmade, homemade and homegrown goods to our community every summer season. These events are just the beginning—we’re constantly creating new ways to bring people into our district and showcase everything our downtown has to offer.

Now, we’re looking for a talented Events Manager to take our events to the next level, working alongside our Executive Director to make every gathering even more impactful.

Your Role

As the Events Manager, you’ll be responsible for:

• Event Planning & Execution: Lead the planning, organization and on-site execution of events like First Fridays, Farmers Markets and other community initiatives
• Volunteer Management: Recruit, coordinate and manage volunteers to ensure events run seamlessly
• Vendor & Merchant Collaboration: Work with vendors and merchants to create vibrant, successful events that engage the community
• Data-Driven Improvements: Collect and analyze event data to assess performance, identify opportunities for improvement and adjust strategies for future success
• Marketing & Promotion: Develop and implement marketing plans to promote events, including social media, email campaigns and traditional advertising
• Project Management: Manage timelines, budgets and logistics for events while keeping a sharp eye on details
• Community Engagement: Build and foster relationships with local organizations, businesses and residents to create a collaborative and inclusive environment
• Attend Front Desk: Divide in-office time with the Executive Director to manage the Front Desk, including periodic phone calls and in-person inquiries. This will include periodic answering of the phone or in-person inquiries. 

This full-time position will require some evening and weekend hours, specifically during events. The ability to flex your schedule accordingly will help balance these commitments. Weekend hours will align with First Friday events on the first Friday of each month and the Farmers Market, which occurs Saturday mornings from May 11 to September 28, 2025 from 8 a.m. to noon. Candidates should have no issues with standing for long periods of time or lifting items like tables and chairs.

What we’re looking for…

To succeed in this role, you should be:

• A self-starter who thrives with minimal oversight and loves to take initiative
• Highly organized, with an ability to juggle multiple projects while keeping deadlines on track
• Experienced in event planning and marketing, with a strong understanding of both logistics and promotion
• Passionate about data collection and analysis, using metrics to shape future strategies
• Skilled at collaboration and communication, working with diverse groups to achieve shared goals

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Event Management, Public Relations, Communications, or a related field (or equivalent professional experience of 2 years)
• Proven experience in event planning, marketing, or project management
• Strong skills in social media, advertising, and digital marketing tools
• Familiarity with budgeting, sponsorships, and community partnerships
• Comfortable with standing, lifting, and physical activity as needed during events

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary up to $45,000
• Paid holidays and Paid Time Off (PTO)
• $50 Monthly Cell Phone Stipend
• Opportunities to make a meaningful impact on the community
• The chance to work in one of Indiana’s most vibrant cultural districts

Why join Downtown Wabash, Inc.?

Wabash is a place where history and progress converge. From being the first electrically lighted city in the world to becoming a cultural hub for Indiana, Wabash continues to evolve while honoring its roots. Living, working and playing here means becoming part of a close-knit community where creativity and collaboration are the norm.

At Downtown Wabash, Inc., you’ll play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our community. You’ll work alongside a talented, passionate team that’s dedicated to preserving our downtown’s unique charm while creating opportunities for growth and connection.

Location

This position is based in Wabash, Indiana. We’re looking for someone who already lives in or near Wabash—or is ready to relocate to be part of this exciting community.

Ready to Apply?

If this sounds like the opportunity for you, we’d love to hear from you! 

Please send your resume and cover letter detailing your experience and vision for Downtown Wabash, Inc. events to Shane@downtownwabash.org.

Be part of something bigger. Help us make Downtown Wabash the heartbeat of Indiana’s cultural scene!