Special Events Manager

The City of Tempe is a dynamic and progressive municipality located in Arizona, known for its vibrant community and commitment to providing exceptional public services. As part of its dedication to enhancing community life, the City offers a diverse range of programs and services. One of its key departments, Community Services, particularly the Recreation division, plays an essential role in organizing public events and recreational activities that enrich the lives of residents and visitors alike. Tempe’s public events reflect the city’s character, culture, and values, making it a welcoming place for all community members. The city values inclusivity, safety, cultural representation, and economic impact, ensuring that its events foster community cohesion and contribute positively to the local economy.

The Special Events Manager role at the City of Tempe is a vital leadership position that oversees the planning, coordination, and management of all major public events within the city. This full-time, regular position offers an annual salary ranging from $106,500 to $157,000, with the successful candidate’s placement depending on their experience, capped at the salary midpoint of $131,800. This role is classified as safety sensitive and requires adherence to strict policies related to workplace conduct and substance use. The typical work schedule is Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

The Special Events Manager is responsible for ensuring that every event is well-organized, compliant with local, county, and state regulations, and reflective of Tempe’s vibrant community spirit. The position requires a strategic leader who can coordinate multiple priorities such as public safety, cultural inclusion, economic benefits, and community satisfaction. This manager leads a team, provides guidance and performance evaluations, and ensures operational budgets are managed effectively. They work collaboratively with internal departments, external organizers, and various regulatory agencies to maintain high standards of event management. In addition, they administer the event permitting system, participate in contract negotiations, and recommend policies and innovations to city leadership and city council members.

The position demands a professional who is organized, collaborative, and calm under pressure. A customer service mindset is critical to successfully responding to public inquiries and balancing the diverse needs of event stakeholders. The ideal candidate holds a bachelor’s degree in public administration, event management, communications, recreation, or closely related fields, with at least five years of relevant experience in special events management, hospitality, or venue operations. Certifications such as Certified Festival and Event Executive, Certified Crowd Manager, and FEMA Emergency Management Institute training enhance a candidate’s suitability.

The City of Tempe offers a comprehensive benefits package to its employees, including paid holidays, vacation accrual, sick leave, medical, dental, and vision benefits, wellness programs, tuition reimbursement, retirement plans, and other valuable perks. This supportive environment reflects the city’s commitment to employee well-being and professional growth. As a representative of the City, the Special Events Manager plays a key role in sustaining Tempe’s tradition of hosting safe, innovative, successful, and inclusive public events that enhance the city’s reputation and quality of life.