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Marcus Performing Arts Center

Event Manager

Marcus Performing Arts Center, Milwaukee

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Job Title:   Event Manager

Reporting To: Director of Events & Guest Services

FLSA Status: Exempt

Employment Status: Full-Time

Direct Report(s): None


JOB SUMMARY

The Event Manager will serve as the lead representative during event operations, making this a highly collaborative position that requires strategic thinking, attention to detail, kindness, and ability to manage real-time problem solving on event days. The Event Manager will also contribute to the development of MPAC’s evolving event process, systems, and service models as the organization transitions into a new operational structure.


ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Following contract finalization, serve as the lead coordinator for assigned events, managing internal and external communication related to the planning and execution of event logistics.
  • Collaborate with Rentals, Programming, Development and Marketing teams to ensure client and artist’s needs are integrated across Production, Engineering, Guest Services, Security, and Food & Beverage.
  • Be part of the Advance Team to review event logistics with renters, promoters, artists, tour managers, and clients, including hospitality, production, technical needs, timelines, and front-of-house planning.
  • Participate in regular internal meetings and venue walkthroughs, contributing to the overall improvement of event operations.
  • Facilitate the distribution of event operation documents, and follow-ups to respective departments and clients, to ensure events need accuracy.
  • Oversee and support on-site execution of events—troubleshooting, collaborating, and adapting in real time to ensure safety, timeliness, and service quality.
  • Coordinate with MPAC’s food & beverage partner, ensuring event details are integrated into Banquet Event Orders (BEOs) and aligned with staffing and operational plans.
  • Track, review and follow-up with respective departments on contracts, permits, insurance documentation, vendor details, artist payments, and other legal/financial materials relevant to assigned events.
  • Contributes to the post-event evaluation process, documenting outcomes, incidents, lessons learned, and performance metrics.


QUALIFICATIONS REQUIREMENTS


EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

  • Minimum of 2 years of progressive and proven experience in event management, venue operations, preferably in performing arts, live entertainment, events or hospitality environment.
  • Demonstrated success managing multi-scale events with multiple internal and external stakeholders.
  • Proven ability to oversee timelines, work with cross-functional teams, and make effective decisions in high-pressure and changing event environments.


KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

  • A commitment to the arts and arts education
  • Ability to be appreciative of diverse perspectives, and a commitment to the organization’s
  • initiatives regarding racial equity, diversity, and inclusion (REDI)
  • Familiarity and ability to work a Flexible Work Schedule (FWS) that will include core hours and flexible hours to facilitate the management and execution of events. Evening, weekend, and holiday availability required based on event scheduling.
  • Strong organizational and project management capabilities, detail-oriented, and ability to manage multiple complex timelines simultaneously.
  • Strategic understanding of how event logistics integrate across departments.
  • Strong understanding of event advancement processes and client/vendor coordination.
  • Confident communicator, both written and verbally, with excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills. Comfortable leading internal walkthroughs, interacting with clients and artists.
  • High emotional intelligence and collaborative team player mindset – able to confidently lead, support and partner with staff across levels and departments, and maintain a calm, solutions-driven, team-oriented, and professional presence during events.
  • Able to make confident decisions independently while balancing client service and operations.
  • Customer-service oriented and polished in client-facing settings, including with agents, tour managers, and sponsors. Ability to work well with a diverse population.
  • Strong analytical skills to be able to support the development of the operational foundation of the department.
  • Ability to maintain a high level of confidentiality.
  • Working knowledge of contractual administration and general legal terminology.
  • Basic knowledge of Venue Management systems, event timelines, and BEO processes.
  • Current proficiency with MS Office, including SharePoint, Word, Excel & Outlook.
  • Ability to work independently and to establish, monitor, and achieve goals with minimal supervision.