Event Manager
Company: 16 On Center
Role summary
Event Manager is a role at 16 On Center in Chicago, Illinois, United States (hybrid). Posted 2026-09-04. Salary: USD 60,000–65,000 per year. Experience level: 2-5.
- Job title
- Event Manager
- Company
- 16 On Center
- Location
- Chicago, Illinois, United States
- Work arrangement
- hybrid
- Category
- Hospitality
- Salary
- USD 60,000–65,000 per year
- Experience level
- 2-5
- Date posted
- 2026-09-04
This is a fantastic opportunity to join a dynamic team as an Event Manager, with a great salary of $60k-$65k per year. You'll have the chance to shape memorable experiences and grow your career in event planning.
Job description
Description
About Us:
16 On Center Chicago owns and operates several live music venues, third-party production, restaurants, bars, and food halls across Chicago and New York. Join the team of one of the country's leading independent promoters.
Our most effective service to our community comes from a team with a diverse mix of minds, backgrounds, and experiences. 16 On Center actively seeks a diverse applicant pool and encourages candidates of all backgrounds to apply. We provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment, without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, neurodiversity, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Position Summary
As the Event Manager at 16 On Center , you will work collaboratively with the events and venue teams and embody 16 OC’s “hospit-totally” spirit and can-do attitude. This role is responsible for identifying, attracting, and securing event bookings that drive revenue and achieve sales targets. In addition, you will develop and implement marketing strategies, establish and nurture client relationships, and ensure a seamless planning process from inquiry through execution.
Additional responsibilities include but are not limited to:
Sales and Revenue Generation
Proactively identify and qualify potential leads to build a robust sales pipeline
Develop and implement effective sales strategies to meet and exceed monthly, quarterly, and annual sales targets
Negotiate pricing, contracts, and packages to secure event bookings
Track and report on progress toward revenue goals, upsells, and repeat business
Marketing and Promotion
Create and execute marketing strategies and promotional materials to attract prospective clients
Present and implement annual marketing plans to grow top-line revenue
Leverage digital marketing, social media, and advertising to raise awareness and generate leads
Represent the portfolio of venues at industry events, trade shows, and networking opportunities
Client Relationship Management
Build and maintain long-term client relationships, serving as a trusted partner throughout the planning process
Deliver excellent customer service and proactive communication from inquiry to post-event follow-up
Work cross-functionally with culinary, beverage, operations, and marketing teams to ensure seamless event delivery
Event Operations
Lead client site visits and serve as the primary point of contact for on-site needs during event execution
Collaborate with internal teams to align logistics, staffing, and client expectations
Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as dictated by event schedule
Financial Management
Prepare event budgets and design proposals for clients
Monitor costs, margins, and profitability to achieve financial goals
Market Research
Stay current with industry trends, competitors, and emerging marketing opportunities
Use market insights to tailor offerings and remain competitive
Reporting
Generate regular reports on sales performance, revenue collected, and client feedback
Present data-driven recommendations to leadership
Requirements
About You:
4–6 years of experience in sales, business development, or event planning
Bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, hospitality, or related field preferred, or equivalent combination of education and relevant experience
Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills
Knowledge of event industry trends, pricing strategies, and best practices
Proficiency in using Tripleseat, Creative Suite, Canva, Microsoft Office, and Social Tables
Strong organizational and project management skills
Creative thinking and problem-solving abilities
Flexibility and adaptability to thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment
Ability to meet the physical demands of the role, including standing for extended periods, moving throughout venues, and occasionally lifting or carrying materials up to 25 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation
Position Details
Job Type: Full-time, Exempt
Schedule: Hybrid schedule with standard office hours, plus evenings, weekends, and holidays as required by the event calendar
Compensation: $60k - $65k + Commission
Benefits: Health insurance with employer contribution; voluntary dental, vision, short-term disability, accident, and hospital coverage; employer-paid life insurance; voluntary life insurance; 401(k) retirement plan with company match; PTO