The Chicago Zoological Society's Brookfield Zoo is known throughout the world as a leader in animal welfare and conservation and has an exciting, fast-paced work environment and family friendly atmosphere. Our beautiful park like setting has 216 acres of meticulously landscaped grounds, which provide an amazing setting for fun and exciting annual events including Holiday Magic, Summer Nights, Boo! at the Zoo, Zoo Brew and ZooRunRun. We take PRIDE in every aspect of our operation, and our employees enjoy a work environment that is based on respect, openness, cooperation and involvement. We provide state-of-the-art care to thousands of animals representing over 500 species, and we are very customer focused as we host over 2 million guests at Brookfield Zoo each year. Employees are proud to work for the Chicago Zoological Society and are committed to our important conservation mission. Our dedicated staff has a true sense of purpose and a strong commitment to animals and conservation.

The Manager of Marketing Events contributes to the success of the Chicago Zoological Society by providing an extraordinary guest experience and driving attendance through engaging and impactful onsite communications, special events, and promotions.

The successful candidate will be expected to:

• Develop a yearly special events schedule that supports the overall strategic marketing and attendance goals for Brookfield Zoo and the Chicago Zoological Society ("CZS") with emphasis on attendance during "shoulder seasons" and programming designed to appeal to a diverse population. Research and recommend new special event ideas and, in partnership with the Vice President of Marketing & Communication, develop business plans, including attendance and revenue and net profit projections ("P&L") to guide adoption decision-making processes.
• Manage the execution of all elements of Marketing special events, with responsibilities including, but not limited to: obtain feedback from key internal groups; facilitate necessary communication through all phases of each event to ensure smooth implementation; develop detailed special event plans, including all required resources. Coordinate and provide feedback on promotional materials.
• Manage all special event production budget expenditures of $400,000+ and special event revenue of $110,000+. Develop and issue Requests for Proposals (RFPs) in accordance with Society policy, sourcing vendors and negotiating the most favorable rates. Negotiate and write contracts for all selected suppliers (i.e., entertainers, rental companies, audio-visual suppliers, lighting vendors, etc.) complying with the Society's policies and MBE/WBE/DBE Supplier Diversity Program.
• Maintain comprehensive special event records, including post-event wrap-up reports, which include attendance, weather data, budget, guest comments, etc. to inform/guide future planning. Administer overall special event tracking system to evaluate program ROI, including revenue and expense data from all departments.
• Manage the development of onsite marketing communications through Creative Services to ensure quality guest experience, including signage, maps (regular, Spanish and school groups), gate handouts (summer and special events), information boards and digital implementations. Support Web/Communications team in updating special event information on CZS websites and video display screens.
• Manage and mentor the Assistant Manager of Marketing Events, assigning distinct special events under their direction to develop skills in special event planning, execution and knowledge of systems, practices, and personnel within CZS. Set clear objectives, give feedback and conduct annual reviews on an ongoing and timely basis. Supervise volunteer and seasonal staff in the execution of on-site special events. Provide training as needed and feedback to Assistant Manager of Marketing Events on staff/volunteer performance.
• Contribute to the development of annual marketing plan and budget, including setting objectives.
• Provide special events execution consultation and support to internal groups for select events as needed and requested. Serve as support for Media Relations and spokesperson for special event publicity as requested.

Position Requirements and Specifications
The requirements for this position include:

• Bachelor's degree in Marketing or related field or equivalent combination of training and/or experience required.
• Minimum of three years directly related special event work experience, preferably including marketing events required.
• Computer proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint required.
• Strong interpersonal skills with a warm, amiable personality. Ability to build rapport and interact effectively with others, including but not limited to internal staff, vendors, suppliers, and media.
• Must be proactive, persistent, helpful, and able to deal calmly with multiple issues.
• Prior experience developing and managing budgets required.
• Strong communication skills, verbal, written, including effective listening and presentation skills.
• Must be able to maintain the confidentiality of privileged information.
• Strong attention to detail required.
• Must have a high level of energy, be self-motivated, flexible, confident, and enjoy working in a dynamic environment.
• Strong coordinating, follow-up and follow-through skills essential.
• Valid driver's license required. Illinois residents must possess a valid Illinois license within 90 days of hire. Valid out-of-state license required for out-of-state residents.

The preferred qualifications include:

• Multilingual ability, Spanish fluency a plus.

Additional Information: Position requires weekends, evenings, early mornings, and travel to site locations as needed. Incumbent must be highly professional and tactful and represent the organization in a professional manner at all times.

Additional Information
The Chicago Zoological Society is an Equal Opportunity Employer / Affirmative Action Employer - Minorities / Women / Veterans / Disabled.