Job Title: Events and Sales Manager
Location: Chicago, IL
Terms: Full-Time
Requirements: Ability to work evening and weekend hours as needed
About Us:
The Athenaeum Center, established in 1911, proudly stands as Chicago’s oldest continuously-operating off-Loop theater. Our mission is deeply rooted in the Catholic tradition and is dedicated to inviting people into transformative encounters with beauty through the arts. At the Athenaeum Center, we believe that beauty holds the profound power to elevate culture, transform society, and change lives. Our commitment is to provide spaces where individuals can contemplate, encounter, and delight in beauty, enriching their spiritual and cultural experiences. By revitalizing the great Catholic tradition of the arts, we aim to foster a deeper appreciation for the intersection of faith and artistic expression.
Job Overview:
The Events and Sales Manager is pivotal in overseeing the comprehensive management of event bookings and internal productions. This role encompasses both rentals and internally produced events by the Athenaeum Center, ensuring exceptional execution and client satisfaction. The Events and Sales Manager leads sales meetings, monitors profitability, and ensures all artist offers align with the center’s mission. Additionally, the role involves resolving customer service issues, managing contract review and distribution, and providing overall leadership in event management.
Key Responsibilities:
Sales and Event Leadership
- Oversee and lead the planning, advancing, and execution of internal and external events
- Review and assess artist offers to ensure they align with the Athenaeum Center’s mission, focusing on financial profitability and feasibility
- Lead and manage regular sales meetings, tracking sales performance and identifying new revenue opportunities
- Collaborate closely with the Events Manager to manage the event calendar, ensuring all events are scheduled effectively and staffed appropriately
Manage Personal Event Portfolio
- Directly manage a diverse portfolio of events, including both rentals and internally produced events by the Athenaeum Center
- Work with clients to develop tailored event plans and ensure seamless execution, addressing all logistical and operational aspects
- Coordinate scheduling, staffing, and technical requirements for assigned events
- Act as Production Manager for internal events, overseeing technical setups, budget management, and event execution
- Provide on-site support and oversight during both rental and internally produced events to ensure all aspects meet client expectations and operational standards
Sales Strategy and Revenue Management
- Maximize revenue opportunities through strategic upselling and offering event enhancements
- Negotiate contracts and pricing with a focus on achieving profitability while maintaining strong client relationships
- Monitor event budgets, provide detailed financial updates, and ensure timely settlement of all financial transactions
- Ensure a smooth transition from sales to operations and back to sales, maintaining effective communication and coordination throughout the event lifecycle
Customer Service and Contract Management
- Assist with resolving any customer service issues that arise with the Events Manager or Artist Booking Agent, ensuring a high level of client satisfaction
- Review, draft, and distribute contracts for artists, crews, rentals, and other production-related agreements, ensuring all terms are clear and in the best interest of the Athenaeum Center
- Work collaboratively with internal teams to address any contractual concerns and ensure compliance with all agreements
Qualifications:
- Minimum of 3 years of experience in event management and sales, preferably within a performing arts venue or similar public facility
- Demonstrated ability to manage client relationships, resolve issues effectively, and deliver exceptional customer service
- Solid understanding of Catholic teachings
- Ability to keep a peaceful, Christ-like demeanor in demanding situations
- Experience with contract review, negotiation, and distribution
- Experience with complex event financial settlements
- Strong organizational, problem-solving, and multitasking skills
- Proficiency in event management software (e.g., Momentus Elite, CRM) and Microsoft Office or Google Suite
- Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, as required by the events schedule
Reports To:
Executive Director
Direct Reports:
- Events Manager
- Artist Booking Agent
Compensation:
- Pay Rate/Range: $65,000–$85,000 based on experience
- Holiday and paid time off
- Comprehensive benefits package (medical, dental, vision, life insurance)
- 401(k) with company match