POSITION OVERVIEW:

Pablo Center at the Confluence is seeking a dynamic and results-driven Special Event & Sales Manager to lead and grow our special events program. This role is ideal for a strategic thinker with a passion for elevating event experiences, increasing event revenue, and building long-term relationships with clients and partners.

As Special Event & Sales Manager, you will play a pivotal role in driving the financial success of Pablo Center by leading event sales, generating new business, retaining and growing existing client relationships, and developing innovative programming. You will be responsible for the full sales cycle—from client acquisition and contract negotiation to event execution and post-event stewardship.

This position calls for a creative, goal-oriented professional who thrives in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment and is motivated by exceeding revenue targets while delivering extraordinary client experiences.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Sales, Growth & Strategy

• Proactively identify and secure new business opportunities in event sales, including weddings, corporate events, conferences, galas, and private rentals.

• Develop and implement strategies to increase event revenue, maximize space utilization, and improve client retention.

• Collaborate with marketing to generate leads, promote offerings, and enhance brand awareness across sectors.

Client Management & Event Execution

• Serve as the main point of contact for all event clients from inquiry to post-event follow-up.

• Cultivate and maintain relationships with clients, vendors, sponsors, and community partners to ensure repeat business and referrals.

• Manage detailed event planning and timelines; oversee execution in partnership with internal departments.

Innovation & Program Development

• Create fresh, trend-informed event concepts that reflect Pablo Center’s mission and elevate its reputation as a premier event destination.

• Implement planning tools, best practices, and systems to ensure scalable, high-quality event delivery.

Communication & Coordination

• Collaborate cross-departmentally (production, front-of-house, finance, operations) to ensure a seamless client experience.

• Ensure timely communication regarding event briefings, staffing needs, rental contracts, invoices, and post-event analysis.

Financial Accountability

• Develop and manage event budgets and provide projections to leadership.

• Support Controller in forecasting departmental revenue and tracking progress toward annual financial goals.

WHY JOIN US?

This is your opportunity to join a passionate, forward-thinking team at one of the Midwest’s most vibrant cultural institutions. If you’re ready to take our special events program to the next level and be part of something meaningful—we want to hear from you.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in hospitality, business, arts administration, or related field—or equivalent experience.

• Minimum 2 years of event sales and coordination experience (venue-based preferred).

• Proven success in growing event revenue and client bases.

• Familiarity with CRM systems, budgeting, and event reporting tools.

Skills & Attributes

• Strong sales acumen with a customer-focused mindset.

• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to build trust with diverse stakeholders.

• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

• Creative thinker with the ability to adapt quickly and problem-solve under pressure.

• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.

• Comfortable with irregular hours, including evenings and weekends as event schedules require.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

This role involves a balance of desk work and active event management. The position requires frequent walking throughout the building for client tours and event oversight, as well as occasional lifting of items up to 25 pounds. Must be able to communicate effectively in person, over email, and by phone.