Wedding and Events Manager

Job Overview

Help create unforgettable moments at one of Dubuque' most unique venues! The Wedding and Events Manager is responsible for the direct management of the River Museum' private events. This includes planning, coordinating, and executing weddings and special events, such as corporate parties, and managing the Wedding and Events staff. Additionally, this role will collaborate with a committee of museum team members to host a variety of public events, such as Ice Fest and Taste of Summer. This opportunity combines a balance of creativity, flexibility, organizational skills, and exceptional customer service.

Quality work can happen anywhere. We offer a flexible schedule that balances peak season demands with off-season flexibility, allowing for occasional work-from-home opportunities and encouraging a healthy work/life balance.

This is a salaried, full-time, permanent position. Compensation is competitive and commensurate with experience. Benefits include vacation time, sick time, paid holidays, medical, dental, flex plan, 403b retirement plan and the opportunity to earn additional income by receiving gratuity from events worked.

The Dubuque County Historical Society and its properties, the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium and Mathias Ham Historic Site, are committed to embracing diversity, practicing equity, and ensuring accessibility and inclusion. We continually strive to achieve a welcoming environment in all our spaces, where our staff and community feel reflected and valued for their unique perspectives and backgrounds. DEAI values guide and impact all the decisions the museum makes, both internal and external.

Primary Duties

• Manage the entire wedding and event planning process, from initial consultation to day-of execution
  • Conduct tours and consultations with potential clients
  • Create event timelines and floor plans
  • Oversee event setup, execution, and teardown
  • Facilitate clear and accurate internal communication surrounding event details and needs
  • Work with vendors to ensure supply/beverage inventory
  • Ensure a smooth event flow and troubleshoot any challenges
• Lead Wedding and Events staff, including scheduling
• Develop and maintain relationships with vendors and community partners
• Participate in outreach events to promote NMRMA as a venue
  • This includes bridal shows, wedding fairs, conferences, etc.
• Manage the inventory, organization, and cleanliness of the catering kitchen
• Collaborate with various departments and staff members to plan for public events
• Provide outstanding customer service through proactive communication and attention to detail
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• Bachelor' degree in a related field or equivalent of training and experience preferred
• Sales experience with experience converting inquiries into bookings preferred
• Proven ability to take initiative and manage a team
• Strong interpersonal skills
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple projects at once
• Demonstrates a consistently positive and professional demeanor
• Must be able to read, write and speak the English language
• Must be able to perform any physical demands of job duties, either with or without reasonable accommodation
  • This includes setting up and tearing down events and standing or walking for extended periods of time
• Final candidates will be subject to a reference and background check

How to apply

To learn more, visit www.rivermuseum.org/join-our-team. Apply by emailing your resume, cover letter, salary requirements and references to apply@rivermuseum.org or by delivering them in person to 350 E. 3rd St., Dubuque, IA 52001 by Friday, December 6, 2024.

The National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium is an outgrowth of the Dubuque County Historical Society, which also operates the Mathias Ham Historic Site, is home to the National Rivers Hall of Fame, and supports a national outreach program called RiverWorks Discovery.

Research suggests that women and individuals from underrepresented backgrounds often apply to jobs only if they meet 100% of the qualifications. We recognize that it is highly unlikely that any applicant is able to meet all of the qualifications for a given role. Therefore, if you are drawn to this position and feel your strengths would be an asset to the organization, we highly encourage you to apply.