Special Event Manager

Opportunities with Wheaton Park District

Opportunities At Wheaton Park District

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Current opportunities are posted here as they become available.

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The Wheaton Park District (WPD) was established by the citizens of Wheaton in 1921 and has a rich history of elevating the quality of community life through its parks, facilities, programs and services. Today, citizens enjoy active and passive parks owned and leased by the district across fifty-four (54) sites totaling nearly 900 acres. Recreational facilities owned and/or operated by the District include the Ray Morrill Community Center, Parks Plus Fitness, Central Athletic Complex, Northside Park Family Aquatic Center, Rice Pool and Water Park, Arrowhead Golf Club, Lincoln Marsh Natural Area, Mary Lubko Center, Memorial Park Bandshell, Clocktower Mini Golf Course and Skate Park, Cosley Zoo, and DuPage County Historical Museum.

The Wheaton Park District is an Illinois Distinguished Accredited Agency and is a recognized leader in the delivery of parks and recreation services in Illinois. WPD is a four-time winner of the NRPA Gold Medal Award for excellence in the field of park and recreation management.

District mission, vision and core values

Mission:
To create vibrant, welcoming spaces and activities that inspire fun, foster connection, strengthen the community, and enrich well-being for all.

Vision:
To be the community leader in offering fun and inclusive experiences inspired by nature, powered by creativity, built on collaboration, and guided by integrity.

Position Description and Key Responsibilities

The district is seeking a skilled Special Event Professional to coordinate and deliver a diverse portfolio of community events. Working closely with the marketing team and other agency departments, this individual will manage event planning, logistics, promotions, budgeting, revenue targets, on-site execution, and post-event review. The annual schedule features community festivals, a summer concert series, 5K races, and additional events as assigned.

Reporting Relationships:
The Special Event Manager reports to the Director of Marketing. The Special Event Manager has two (2) direct reports including Special Event Coordinator and Special Event Assistant in addition to approximately 12 summer seasonal part time staff.

Required Education, Qualifications, Knowledge,

Skills and Abilities

Minimum of a bachelor’s degree from a four-year college or university with concentration in business, hospitality, marketing, communications, special event management, recreation administration, or related field. A background in community event planning and execution with a minimum of five (5) years’ experience in marketing management, public and media relations, and event planning/management. Experience with Microsoft Office Suite, methods of mass distribution via email, event and ticketing software and social media knowledge required.

Must be able to lead, manage, and motivate assigned staff. Must have great problem solving, analytical, organizational, interpersonal, and written and verbal communication skills. Must be able to multi-task and work calmly and effectively under pressure. Must be willing to work evenings and weekends for after-hours special events and board meetings. Evidence of a commitment to continuing education and professional development preferred.

Essential Functions

• Design, manage, and execute special events for facilities to include event permitting, budgets, EMS plans, and on-site logistics. Events include, but are not limited to the Cream of Wheaton Festival, Summer Concert Series, Superhero Fun Run, Shakespeare in the Park, Cosley Zoo Run for the Animals, Reindeer Run, and other events as assigned.
• This position must maintain a positive relationship and work closely with community partners, event entertainers, vendors, volunteers, city departments, public and community agencies as required to facilitate events.
• Create sponsorship materials and secure sponsors for…