Marketing & Events Manager

Job Overview

Are you a passionate and highly organized professional who thrives in dynamic environments and loves bringing people together? Steeple Square is seeking a Marketing and Events Manager to lead the planning, promotion, and execution of meaningful events at our vibrant Steeple Square Community Event Center. This is more than just a job — it’s a chance to contribute to a mission-driven organization at the heart of Dubuque’s historic downtown, where every event and initiative helps strengthen our community and ensure long-term sustainability.

In this pivotal role, you’ll oversee daily operations of the event center, manage relationships with vendors and volunteers, and coordinate campus activities to deliver exceptional experiences. You’ll also play a key role in supporting marketing strategies that elevate the visibility and impact of Steeple Square’s programs.

We’re looking for a client-focused leader with a can-do attitude, a keen eye for detail, and a deep sense of community pride. The ideal candidate will bring outstanding communication skills, a collaborative spirit, and a passion for creating memorable, purpose-driven events.

Job Summary:

The Marketing and Events Manager plays a vital role in supporting the fiscal sustainability and community impact of Steeple Square. This position is responsible for the planning, coordination, and execution of events and activities within the Steeple Square Community Event Center — including Honkamp Hall and the Sisters of Charity BVM Community Center.

This role blends strategic thinking with hands-on event execution, facilities oversight, and volunteer coordination. The ideal candidate will bring energy, creativity, and a strong sense of professionalism to every aspect of the job.

Key Responsibilities

• Event & Rental Management
  • Oversee and manage rental events such as weddings, receptions, celebrations of life, business meetings, and cultural/community events.
  • Act as the primary point of contact for clients, vendors, and community partners using the Event Center facilities.
  • Coordinate and assist with event setup and ensure smooth operations from planning through execution.

• Programmed Events & Revenue Generation
  • Create and manage Steeple Square–hosted events that generate revenue, such as wedding shows, shopping events, and musical performances.
  • Develop and implement new community-facing events aligned with Steeple Square’s mission and brand.
• Campus & Facility Oversight
  • Coordinate campus activities and supervise contracted service providers and volunteers.
  • Oversee cleaning, furnishing, and maintenance of facilities and equipment.
  • Manage inventories, including supplies and bar services, ensuring smooth operation and maintenance.
  • Ensure a safe and welcoming environment for all staff, guests, and event attendees.
• Leadership & Collaboration
  • Work closely with the Executive Director, board members, committee chairs, not-for-profit partners, and key stakeholders.
  • Develop staffing and on-call schedules; provide coverage as needed.
  • Collaborate with the volunteer chair to assess and meet volunteer needs.
• Strategic & Financial Oversight
  • Contribute to the development and implementation of organizational goals and operational processes.
  • Participate in budget preparation and monitor expenditures to stay within budget targets.
  • Prepare and deliver monthly Event Center Operating Reports.
  • Identify and execute revenue-producing opportunities.
• Communications & Outreach
  • Provide content and updates for newsletters, grants, and promotional materials.
  • Participate in fundraising events and represent Steeple Square at community functions.
  • Maintain consistent communication across departments and with external partners.
• Additional Responsibilities
  • Attend board and committee meetings as needed.
  • Ensure compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements.
  • Embrace and support Steeple Square’s mission and vision.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by the Executive Director.

Skills:

• Ability to manage a team of contracted service providers and volunteers
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Strong work ethic and positivity
• Work independently
• Attention to detail
• Resourceful
• Microsoft Office experience
• Experience in event management a plus
• Basic budget and finance experience
• Advanced time management skills

Physical and Other Requirements:

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer or prolonged periods
• Must be able to lift up to 30 pounds at times
• Be able to stand for prolonged periods of time, bend, kneel, squat and twist
• Must be able to accommodate a flexible work schedule including nights, weekend and holidays

Qualifications:

• Associate or bachelor’s degree in hospitality, hospitality management, event management, marketing or related field or equivalent experience preferred but not required
• Valid driver’s license

Pay:

Annual salary of $53,000 - $58,000 per year and is negotiable based on experience. Bonuses program available and attractive benefits.