Job Description

Overview Lincoln Park Zoo seeks an Event Manager to produce public ticketed events ranging from smaller activations to major events. The role focuses on logistics, with responsibility for budgets, contracts, and other operational elements. The Lincoln Park Zoo is an AZA-accredited, not-for-profit organization open 365 days a year. Responsibilities Produce a slate of events and work with the Director to chart a path to annual revenue goals via the events portfolio. Manage essential project management functions for all zoo events. Develop and incorporate new partner and vendor relationships to support fresh experiences each year. Identify operational efficiencies for events and track event budgets; ensure prompt invoice submission and payment; communicate with the Events Director and Finance team. Serve as a partner to the Senior Event Manager, advising on programming and entertainment. Attend event planning meetings to assess scope and feasibility of each event. Create event production SOPs and prioritize tasks. Develop site plans, conduct site walks, and coordinate internal relationships for event execution. Work with the Senior Events Manager to create vendor and programming schedules, including load-in/load-out and run of show. Submit and manage design requests to ensure timely delivery of creative items (advertising, signage, digital promotions, etc.) within budget and brand guidelines. Obtain necessary permits and licenses on time and accurately. Determine volunteer and staffing needs per event; coordinate with HR and Volunteer Services. Define internal request scopes with Animal Care, Guest Services, Grounds & Maintenance, and other teams; develop execution plans. Order event items such as giveaways and programs as directed by senior management. Lead pre- and post-production meetings to inform teams of progress and next steps. Occasionally serve as on-site event lead, including setup and related physical tasks. Support partnerships with the food and beverage team and retail partners. Maintain warehouse and event inventory; review survey data to improve guest experience. Communicate clearly with Marketing & Communications and across zoo departments to support mission and revenue goals. Perform other duties as assigned. Qualifications The ideal candidate: Has strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills and a strong time-management focus. Has previous project management experience, preferably in consumer events. Is creative, resourceful, detail-oriented, a quick learner, a collaborative contributor with internal and external partners. Is comfortable meeting new people, forming relationships, and trying new things. Can organize tasks, manage multiple moving parts, keep meticulous records, and meet deadlines. Can exercise sound judgment and respond in emergency situations. Is able to work at the zoo at least three days per week, with flexibility for more days as needed. Has experience with Microsoft 365 and common coworking tools (Zoom, Slack, Google Drive). Spanish language skills are helpful but not required. Working knowledge of City of Chicago, Chicago Park District, and Illinois State liquor laws and permit processes is helpful but not required. Education & Experience Requirement 2-3 years of experience in event production. Physical Requirements Ability to remain stationary for 3-5 hours per day and to move around indoor and outdoor environments related to events. Ability to perform physical tasks such as climbing, bending, kneeling, twisting, reaching, and crawling; reasonable accommodation available. Physical strength to lift and move objects up to 50 lbs. Ability to operate and safely drive electric carts. Ability to work in all weather conditions and wear required personal protective equipment. No allergies to plants or animals exhibited on zoo grounds. Ability to traverse zoo grounds. Our Commitment Lincoln Park Zoo is committed to an inclusive and welcoming environment. We celebrate diverse qualities, perspectives, values, and experiences of all people. For Wildlife. For All. Benefits In addition to standard benefits (medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and a 403(b) with institutional match), benefits for regular full-time employees include: Free admission to many Chicago cultural institutions Free on-site parking with access to Lincoln Park, Lakeshore Trail, and North Avenue Beach Discounts on event tickets, attractions, dining, and retail at the zoo Quarterly staff events and LPZooU training and educational sessions Company contribution to Health Savings Account (Medical PPO only) A working environment with green spaces and opportunities for wildlife encounters Lincoln Park Zoo, 2001 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614 #J-18808-Ljbffr Association Of Zoos & Aquariums

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