Services & Special Events Director

Are you a collaborative leader who thrives at the intersection of strategy, operations, and community engagement?

We are looking for a Downtown Services & Special Events Director, a senior leadership role at the heart of the city’s most vibrant spaces. This position oversees citywide downtown operations—including special events and film permitting, nightlife programs, social districts, and the convention center—while coordinating key municipal services that keep downtown thriving.

As a member of the executive management team reporting to the Deputy City Manager, the Director provides strategic vision and leadership to elevate Wilmington’s downtown as a premier destination to live, work, dine, shop, and visit—locally and across North Carolina.

Note:

This position will remain open until filled with first application review taking place 2 weeks after posting date.

• Oversees daily operations of downtown services programs; ensures work is completed efficiently, safely, and in compliance with standards and regulations.
• Plans, directs, and evaluates departmental staff; provides coaching, accountability, performance management, and professional development to build a high‑performing, diverse team.
• Develops and implements long‑and‑short term goals, integrated strategies, and policies for downtown services initiatives.
• Provides guidance and collaborates with City staff and the appropriate internal and external stakeholders on downtown events, film permits, special events, alley activation, public art and programming, and annual holiday lighting.
• Directs and manages the City’s Municipal Services District program (MSD) by acting as staff liaison to the MSD Committee and the City’s MSD services contractor.
• Directs and manages the Convention Center services contract, acting as staff liaison to the facility operator, managing the annual budget, and facilitating routine building maintenance inspections by the City Asset & Property Management staff.
• Coordinates with the Wilmington Regional Film Commission on film industry production activities and Wilmington Conventions and Visitors Bureau on downtown initiatives, annual budgeting, and special tourism related projects; acts as a liaison with downtown partnerships.
• Builds and maintains strong relationships with the community, elected officials, residents, and organizational partners and city staff; represents the department in meetings, presentations, and public events.
• Monitors emerging trends, risks, and regulations; develops and updates policies, procedures, and standards to ensure operational excellence and continuous improvement.
• In collaboration with Parks and Recreation and other city departments, plans, designs, and executes downtown events and programming, including festivals, markets, and other community events to attract residents and visitors.
• Develops a keen understanding of the unique needs and business development opportunities of the City’s principal downtown areas and develops positive relationships with the respective area merchant associations; the downtown principal areas, including the Central Business District, Brooklyn Arts District, Soda Pop District, Castle Street District, Cargo District, South Front Street District, and Northern Waterfront District.

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university in Public Administration, Business Administration, Community/Economic Development, Urban Planning, or a closely related field. At least ten (10) years of progressively responsible, cross‑functional experience in local government, program management, corporate special event management, public administration, or a related field; local government experience preferred. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

• Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record

• Proven ability to lead, mentor, and hold accountable a high‑performing, diverse team; fosters professional growth, collaboration, and a culture of safety and inclusion.
• Skilled in developing and executing long‑and‑short term departmental strategies, policies, and programs that…