SUMMARY
The Downtown Oak Park Business Alliance is seeking a full-time Event & Communication Manager to
join its small, not-for-profit team. This outward-facing organization collaborates with merchants,
organizations, and village officials to develop marketing programs, events, and promotions that draw
people to the downtown district. Reporting to the Marketing Director, this role is pivotal in managing
events and communications that foster connections between community, culture, and commerce. The
ideal candidate is passionate about community engagement, event planning, and creating meaningful
experiences for the district.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
Event Coordination

  • Plan, organize, and oversee all aspects of signature events, including: Thursday Night Out, Shop Outdoor Sale, Oaktoberfest, Winterfest, Cookie Walk, and Home for the Holidays.
  • Brainstorm and develop new event concepts.

Manage event logistics such as:

  • Hiring staff and entertainment.
  • Obtaining necessary permits and licenses.
  • Creating layouts, schedules, and budgets.
  • Soliciting sponsorships and member participation.
  • Manage online ticket sales and event supplies.
  • Supervise event setup, execution, and teardown.
  • Oversee staff, volunteers, and non-profit participation.
  • Distribute promotional materials throughout the district.

Communication & Marketing

  • Maintain and update three websites.
  • Assist with social media strategy and implementation.
  • Create monthly High Rise Flyers to promote district activities.
  • Support merchant promotional efforts, including the Merchant Buzz newsletter and member drives.
  • Build and manage contact lists to ensure effective outreach.

Office Administration

  • Maintain business directories, contact databases, and office files.
  • Organize and manage office supplies and operations.
  • Answer phones and greet merchants and visitors.
  • Prepare for and take minutes at all meetings, including: Annual, quarterly, committee meetings, and merchant seminars.
  • Create onboarding materials for new members and board members.
  • Coordinate new member meetings with the Marketing Director.
  • Manage and organize the photo library, spreadsheets, and DropBox files.

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Proven event planning experience.
  • Self-managing.
  • Positive disposition.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Highly organized and detail-oriented, with the ability to multitask.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office, social media platforms, and email marketing tools.
  • Flexibility to work occasional evenings and weekends for events.

BENEFITS & SCHEDULE

  • Job Type: Full-time
  • Pay: Competitive at $50,000 annually

Benefits

  • Health Insurance
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Parking

Schedule

  • Monday to Friday, with flexibility for event-related duties.

This position offers a unique opportunity to play a key role in creating a vibrant and thriving downtown
community. If you’re eager to contribute your skills and passion, this role could be the perfect fit!

Send resume to shanon@downtownoakpark.net.