Public Events & Exhibits Manager UMN Arboretum, Chanhassen MN

Public Events & Exhibits Manager UMN Arboretum, Chanhassen MN

The Public Events & Exhibits Manager reports to the Managing Director of Events & Exhibits and leads the operational planning, execution, and evaluation of assigned public events and exhibits. This role implements the Managing Director’s strategic direction at the operational level and ensures high-quality, mission-aligned experiences for visitors, members, and partners.

The role manages timelines, logistics, vendors, event-level budget, and stakeholder communications, driving operational excellence, documentation, and continuous improvement across the portfolio. In execution of these responsibilities the Public Events & Exhibits Manager works across departments and content experts throughout the organization to assist in translating strategic event goals into actionable project plans and delivering cross-functionally aligned events.

The position is a fully hands‑on role in execution of events, leading and working alongside a team of full‑time, part‑time, and temporary employees, and ensuring appropriate personnel training, development, and performance feedback. The Public Events & Exhibits Manager exercises independent judgement in day‑to‑day event operations and escalates strategic, financial, or reputational risks to the Managing Director as appropriate. Flexibility to work evening, weekends, and non‑traditional hours is required to support event delivery and peak seasonal demands.

The position fosters a workplace environment where all staff are committed to respect and safety, open communication, excellent internal and external customer service, and teamwork. The successful candidate is expected to play a role on Arboretum‑wide committees and work collaboratively with coworkers to advance the organization. The role contributes to creating inclusive, accessible and welcoming experiences for diverse audiences.

This position is not eligible for H-1B or Green Card sponsorship. This position does not offer a STEM OPT training program.

(40%) Project planning and coordination

• Assist in public event envisioning a world‑class event portfolio that elevates the Arboretum’s mission, inspires diverse audiences, and cultivates meaningful connection.
• Support the development of project plans for assigned public events and exhibits, translating strategic direction into goals, objectives, deliverables, and resource plans, including sequencing of work and identification of operational dependencies.
• Identify roles and responsibilities and coordinate across departments to ensure alignment of event resources with goals and objectives.
• Coordinate across functions to support successful implementation and execution of assigned events, including making day‑to‑day operational decisions to ensure timely and effective delivery.
• Partner with the marketing and communications team to support development and execution of promotional materials and messaging.
• Manage event‑level budgets, vendor and rental contracts, and external partnerships to ensure financial accountability and cost‑effective operations (over $1 million in earned revenue annually).

(30%) Event logistics and delivery

• Coordinate event operations including venue scheduling and setup, vendor contracts, permits, event schedules, facility, safety and security support.
• Maintain shared documentation through project management tools and other central supporting resources for collaboration.
• Supervise, coach, and provide performance feedback to event staff, including full‑time, part‑time, and temporary employees and volunteers.
• Foster a work culture that values significant volunteer engagement to increase capacity of staff to deliver public events.
• Lead on‑site execution and run‑of‑event management, making real‑time operational decisions and escalating complex issues as needed.
• Ensure events reflect organizational values and deliver a high‑quality participant experience.
• Support compliance with safety, accessibility, and risk management protocols across all phases of event planning, preparation, and execution.
• Capture knowledge in standard operation procedures, playbook templates, and post…