OVERVIEW 

Greater Iowa City, Inc. (Greater IC) is a network of business and community leaders working to support business, invest in strategic initiatives, and advocate for an economically resilient Johnson County. 

We are seeking an Event Manager to lead the planning, execution, and continuous improvement of Greater IC’s events portfolio. This role plays a central part in advancing our mission by creating high-quality, engaging events that connect business and community leaders and elevate regional priorities. 

The Event Manager will oversee a diverse set of programs, from large-scale annual events and investor gatherings to targeted convenings and partner collaborations, ensuring each event reflects Greater IC’s brand and strategic goals. 

GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES 

1. Event Strategy & Program Development 

Under the direction of the VP of External Relations & Advocacy, lead the planning and development of Greater IC’s events to align with organizational priorities and member needs. This includes: 

• Developing an annual events strategy and calendar in coordination with Greater IC leadership 

• Establishing clear goals, outcomes, and success metrics for each event 

• Continuously evaluating and refining events based on feedback, attendance, and organizational priorities 

2. Event Planning & Execution 

Manage all aspects from event conception through completion. This includes: 

• Coordinating logistics including venue selection, catering, audiovisual needs, registration, and on-site communication with staff 

• Developing and managing event timelines, run-of-show documents, and vendor relationships 

• Overseeing event budgets, ensuring cost-effective and high-quality events 

3. Marketing & Communications Coordination 

Partner with internal staff to promote events and maximize participation. This includes: 

• Collaborating on event marketing strategies, messaging, and materials 

• Supporting content development for invitations, promotions, and follow-up communications 

• Managing sponsorship fulfillment in event promotion and at event 

• Monitoring registration trends and adjusting outreach strategies as needed 

4. Stakeholder & Partner Engagement 

Build and maintain strong relationships to enhance event quality and reach. This includes: 

• Collaborating with investors, sponsors, community partners, and vendors 

• Identifying and securing event sponsors in coordination with Director of Investor Relations and coordinating sponsorship renewals 

• Compiling and sharing post-event impact reports for large sponsorships to demonstrate value 

• Supporting speaker recruitment and preparation, including business and community leaders 

• Ensuring events reflect and engage the diversity of Johnson County 

5. Data Tracking & Evaluation 

Measure event effectiveness and inform future planning. This includes: 

• Tracking attendance, engagement, sponsorships, and financial performance 

• Gathering participant feedback and analyzing results 

• Preparing summaries and recommendations for leadership to support continuous improvement of events 

KEY EVENT RESPONSIBILITIES 

 The Event Manager will lead coordination and execution of Greater IC’s core events, including but not limited to: 

• Annual signature events (e.g., annual meeting, awards programs, golf outing) 

• Investor celebration events (e.g. ribbon cuttings, groundbreakings) 

• Educational and advocacy-focused gatherings (e.g. legislative forums, Build Johnson County event) 

• Community Leadership Program (CLP) – logistical support only  

This role will also support the development of new event concepts that respond to emerging opportunities and community needs. 

QUALIFICATIONS 

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, marketing, hospitality, business, event management, or a related field 

• 2–5+ years of experience in event planning, program management, or related roles 

• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple events and priorities simultaneously 

• Strong project management skills, including budgeting and timeline management 

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills 

• Experience working with business leaders, sponsors, and community stakeholders 

• Ability to think strategically while executing details at a high level 

• Commitment to inclusive programming 

• Proficiency with graphic design (Canva), social media (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn) and Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems preferred