Manager - Signature Experience Event Manager

Manager - Signature Experience Event Manager

Wage: $48,000 annual salary, DOE

Shift: Full time, exempt. Some weekend, evening, and holiday availability required.

Benefits: Free Thanksgiving Point Membership for you and immediate family; medical, dental, vision, life, and long-term disability insurances; paid time off & holidays; 401(k); Employee Assistance Program; Financial Assistance Program; Thanksgiving Point venue discounts; and more!

Job Summary:
The Signature Experiences Event Manager is responsible for creating, planning, and executing Thanksgiving Point's flagship events, including the iconic Tulip Festival, Luminaria, and other signature experiences. This role combines creative vision with meticulous event management to deliver unforgettable experiences that engage guests, enhance community relationships, and align with Thanksgiving Point’s mission. The manager will oversee all aspects of event production, including planning, logistics, budgeting, vendor coordination, and guest experience.

Key Responsibilities:

• Event Planning & Execution: Lead the development and execution of large-scale, multi-day events such as the Tulip Festival and Luminaria. Ensure all event elements, from concept to cleanup, run smoothly and exceed guest expectations.
• Creative Development: Collaborate with internal teams to design unique, immersive event experiences. Stay current with industry trends to bring fresh, innovative ideas to Thanksgiving Point's signature events.
• Budget Management: Create and manage event budgets. Ensure all events are financially viable while maintaining high-quality experiences.
• Vendor & Partner Coordination: Identify, negotiate, and manage relationships with vendors, contractors, and community partners to ensure successful event execution.
• Team Leadership: Manage and mentor event staff, volunteers, and seasonal workers. Create a positive, collaborative team environment focused on delivering exceptional guest experiences.
• Guest Experience: Focus on creating meaningful and memorable experiences for guests. Prioritize safety, accessibility, and hospitality in every event.
• Marketing Collaboration: Partner with the marketing team to promote signature events. Provide input on promotional strategies, content, and messaging to maximize attendance and engagement.
• Post-Event Analysis: Conduct post-event evaluations to gather insights, identify improvements, and enhance future event planning.
• Other duties as assigned
• Exemplify Thanksgiving Point's Mission, Values, and Policies with curiosity, compassion and confidence,.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Event Management, Hospitality, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• Proven experience in managing large-scale events, preferably in cultural, community, or entertainment settings.
• Strong leadership and project management skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Creative mindset with a passion for delivering unique experiences.
• Ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required by event schedules.
• Familiarity with Thanksgiving Point’s mission and core values is a plus.
• Pass a background check

Working Conditions:

• Fast-paced environment with varying hours based on event schedules.
• Significant time spent on-site during events, including outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and stand for extended periods during event setups and breakdowns.