Events & Experiences Manager

The Rook Room Game Lounge & Cafe is a vibrant and dynamic establishment located in the heart of the Des Moines metro area, known for its unique blend of gaming, social experiences, and culinary delights. As a premier destination for gaming enthusiasts and community members alike, the Rook Room offers an inviting atmosphere where guests can enjoy an extensive array of board games, engaging events, and delicious food and beverages. This venue not only fosters a sense of community and fun but also serves as a hub for creative and memorable experiences that bring people together around a shared passion for gaming and social interaction.

The Rook Room is committed to providing exceptional service and experiences through a team-driven approach, embracing values such as inclusivity, accessibility, and authenticity. They pride themselves on their ability to host a wide variety of events ranging from casual game nights to large-scale tournaments, private celebrations, and corporate gatherings. This dedication to creating memorable moments makes the Rook Room a beloved venue within Central Iowa and beyond.

The role of the Events & Experiences Manager at the Rook Room sits at the core of this mission. This position is central to coordinating, executing, and managing all ticketed, semi-private, and private events. Responsible for the full lifecycle of events — from the initial conception and client engagement through to execution and post-event assessment — the Events & Experiences Manager plays a critical role in maintaining the high standards and legacy of the Rook Room.

This is a full-time role that demands a proactive, organized, and creative individual who thrives in a collaborative setting. The manager serves as the key point of contact for rental clients and guests, managing relationships with professionalism and attentiveness to ensure every event is a success. The position involves close collaboration with the General Manager and other senior staff to allocate and communicate staffing needs, logistics management, financial tracking, venue coordination, and contracting and invoicing processes.

A typical day includes strategizing and planning innovative events and experiences, setting up and overseeing event logistics both on-site and at external venues, and maintaining detailed documentation and success metrics for continuous improvement. The manager also helps support restaurant reservation systems and contributes to marketing and branding efforts for in-house events. Importantly, the role includes seeking out sponsorships and strategic partnerships to enhance major annual events like Treasure Quest.

The ideal candidate is someone who is enthusiastic about team support, enjoys problem-solving through detailed planning and creativity, and shares a passion for gaming culture. Flexibility and adaptability are critical, especially when balancing long-term plans with the ability to respond swiftly to unanticipated changes. Public speaking skills and a personable demeanor are essential, as the role often requires interaction with guests, attendees, and external partners.

The Rook Room offers a flexible work schedule with hybrid opportunities, employee discounts, a staff membership, and the chance to be part of an inclusive, values-driven workplace. This role is more than just event management; it is about building community through unforgettable experiences and ensuring that every guest feels welcomed and engaged. If you have a background in event management combined with excellent customer service skills, this position provides an exciting opportunity to grow your career while contributing to a beloved local institution.