Events Manager

About the role

If you love bringing people together, creating memorable experiences, and balancing big-picture ideas with the details that make events successful, we'd love to meet you. As part of the Project Management team, the Events Manager plans and delivers a variety of Destination Madison events that support our mission and strengthen connections with partners, clients, community members, and visitors. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys collaborating with others, managing multiple projects, and creating experiences that leave a lasting impression.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• Lead the planning and execution of Destination Madison-hosted events from concept through completion.
• Manage event timelines, sponsorship deliverables, budgets, and project plans.
• Cook up event logistics, including coordinating venues, vendors, speakers, entertainment, catering, audiovisual needs, and other event logistics.
• Organize and facilitate event planning meetings while collaborating with teams across the organization.
• Oversee attendee communications, registration, and on-site event operations.
• Recruit and coordinate event staff and volunteers.
• Evaluate event success through post-event reporting, feedback, and analysis.
• Serve as a trusted partner and resource for event planning best practices across the organization.
• Support additional projects and initiatives that advance Destination Madison's strategic goals.

Desired Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree and 4-5 years of relevant professional experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience in event planning, tourism, hospitality, project management, or a related field.
• Familiarity with the Madison area and its venues, attractions, and hospitality community is a plus.
• Experience with Microsoft Office, project management software, and event registration platforms.
• Event planning and/or project management certifications are a plus.

Work Environment and Job Specifications

• Primarily perform work in our downtown Madison office, with flexibility to work remotely based on job duties and current organizational policies.
• Work with frequent interruptions, sit for long periods of time and lift and/or move up to 35 pounds.
• Occasional evening and weekend work required for travel, events and organization functions.
• Local travel, including pedestrian travel, to view various facilities and amenities required.
• A valid driver's license is required. Mileage reimbursement and parking is provided.