Events & Programs Manager

Position Title: Events & Programs Manager Exempt: Yes Reports To: Executive Director Hours: Full-Time (some evenings and weekends required) Salary: $45,000–$55,000 annually, commensurate with experience Benefits: Health benefit package and annual PTO

Position Summary

The Events & Programs Manager plays a critical role in delivering high-quality community events and programs in Downtown Springdale. This mid-level leadership position is responsible for planning, coordinating, and executing DSA-hosted events while also managing key administrative and logistical responsibilities. The ideal candidate will bring management-level judgment, initiative, and professionalism while embracing the hands-on work necessary to bring events and public programs to life.

This role also includes developing and overseeing a comprehensive volunteer recruitment, training, management, and retention system to support the execution of events and community engagement initiatives.

Primary Responsibilities

DSA Event Planning & Execution

• Plan, organize, and execute DSA-hosted events and programs
• Develop event goals, timelines, and budgets in alignment with DSA’s mission and strategic priorities
• Serve as lead project manager for all event logistics, including securing permits, booking vendors and entertainment, managing timelines, and coordinating staffing and resources
• Ensure event safety protocols and inclement weather plans are created and communicated to all appropriate stakeholders in a timely manner
• Collaborate with the Marketing & Communications Manager to develop event promotional materials, media relations, and sponsor recognition

Volunteer Program Leadership

• Design and implement a volunteer strategy that includes recruitment, onboarding, training, retention, and recognition
• Maintain a robust volunteer database and track engagement, hours, and feedback
• Provide clear job descriptions, briefings, and training materials for volunteers at each event
• Lead on-site volunteer coordination during events, ensuring a positive experience and effective contribution

Stakeholder & Community Engagement

• Establish and maintain communication and coordination with community partners, city officials, local businesses, and sponsors
• Lead event planning committees to increase community and stakeholder involvement in events
• Represent DSA professionally at meetings, events, and community gatherings
• Support event partners by advising on logistics, compliance, and best practices for hosting events downtown

Program & Space Support

• As needed, assist with the administration of the public space reservation system in partnership with city departments
• As needed, provide on-site supervision of external events that reserve Shiloh Square, Turnbow Park, and Luther George Park
• Track and share all scheduled events with internal staff, downtown stakeholders, and the community
• Maintain event and programming supplies, equipment, and inventory

Evaluation, Budgeting & Reporting

• Track event outcomes, community participation, and volunteer engagement; provide timely post-event reports and recommendations
• Monitor event and volunteer program budgets, expenses, and in-kind contributions
• Support development of grant proposals and sponsorship packages in collaboration with Executive Director

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree OR 3+ years of relevant experience in event planning, volunteer management, or nonprofit programming
• Experience in coordinating or managing public events, including logistics, vendor relationships, and community outreach
• Prior experience supervising staff, volunteers, or interns strongly preferred

Skills & Attributes

• Hands-on, solution-oriented, and adaptable in fast-paced, changing environments
• Comfortable leading both strategic planning and physical event setup/teardown
• Outstanding organization, communication, and customer service skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, and event management platforms (Eventbrite, Typeform, etc.)
• Familiarity with Springdale and Northwest Arkansas community dynamics a plus
• Bilingual in English/Spanish preferred but not required

Physical Requirements & Work Environment

• Ability to lift 50 lbs, stand/walk for extended periods, and work outdoors in varied weather conditions
• Flexibility to work evenings and weekends as needed for event support
• Position will primarily be based in the office with regular field work in Downtown Springdale

To Apply

Submit a letter of application, resume, and salary expectations to: info@downtownspringdale.org