Special Events Associate Manager

Hogle Zoological Society•Salt Lake City, UT

29d

About The Position

The Special Events Associate Manager leads the strategic planning, coordination, and execution of Utah’s Hogle Zoo’s signature events, including the annual fundraiser, seasonal ticketed experiences, and other promotional activities that drive attendance and revenue. This role requires leadership, collaboration, creativity, and successful execution. In this position, you will manage vendors, contractors, and internal teams to deliver exceptional guest experiences aligned with the Zoo’s mission. The manager ensures projects stay on schedule, within budget, and meet quality standards while fostering strong relationships with sponsors and stakeholders. At the zoo we look for employees who are passionate about conservation, who approach their daily work with a can-do attitude, who are resourceful, who communicate respectfully with everyone, and are ready to work hard supporting the zoo’s mission of creating champions for wildlife by making connections between people and animals to inspire action.

Requirements

Experience managing large-scale events with multiple stakeholders.
Familiarity with fundraising events and donor engagement strategies.
Knowledge of creative design principles and event branding.
Proven ability to lead teams and manage external vendors.
Strong organizational, communication, and negotiation skills.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and project management tools.
Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
Experience working in nonprofit or cultural institutions.
Minimum 7–10 years of experience in event planning and project management.
Certification in project management (e.g., PMP) or event planning.

Nice To Haves

Experience with heavy equipment, including forklift operation, is preferred, or candidates should be willing to learn.

Responsibilities

Develop and manage an annual event calendar with timelines, budgets, and resource allocation.
Oversee all aspects of event logistics, ensuring smooth execution through vendor and contractor management.
Commit to the zoo’s mission and conservation efforts.
Evaluate existing events and identify new opportunities to enhance engagement and revenue.
Explores and provides analysis on new event opportunities.
Identifies and solicitates potential event sponsors.
Ensure the timely and accurate communication of special events activities with appropriate Zoo departments, staff, outside vendors, media, sponsors, and volunteers.
Provide clear direction to staff and external partners; ensure accountability for deliverables.
Serve as the primary liaison between internal departments, sponsors, and vendors.
Maintain effective communication and collaboration across all stakeholders.
Manage event budgets responsibly and monitor expenses.
Secure necessary permits and ensure compliance with regulations.
Ensure all creative elements meet brand standards and guest experience expectations
Regularly communicates progress, challenges faced, and status of Zoo events to the Director of Advancement.
Conduct post-event evaluations to measure success and identify improvements.
Work overtime as required.
Maintain strict confidentiality.
Perform other duties as assigned.