Special Events Development & Recruitment Specialist

This position is ideal for someone with extensive industry connections, exceptional research skills, and a passion for discovering new concepts that drive attendance and create memorable guest experiences. The successful candidate will work remotely while collaborating closely with the Special Events Manager to continually expand OWA's event portfolio through innovative programming and strategic partnerships.

(Remote with monthly meetings on property)

Key Responsibilities

• Research national, regional, and international touring exhibits
• Identify unique entertainment concepts suitable for OWA
• Source seasonal attractions and immersive experiences
• Develop ideas for annual festivals and signature events
• Research emerging entertainment trends
• Present new event opportunities with estimated budgets, attendance potential, and revenue projections

• Identify and recruit vendors for festivals and special events
• Develop relationships with exhibitors, performers, and attractions
• Contact businesses to determine availability, pricing, and scheduling
• Maintain an active database of potential vendors and event partners
• Obtain proposals, contracts, marketing materials, and pricing
  

• Network with entertainment agencies and production companies
• Develop relationships with museums, traveling exhibits, touring productions, and specialty attractions
• Research and identify new business opportunities that align with OWA's strategic goals
• Attend industry trade shows and conferences (as assigned)
• Represent OWA professionally during vendor meetings and industry events
  

• Conduct ongoing market research of successful events nationwide
• Analyze attendance trends and event performance
• Research competing destinations and entertainment offerings
• Recommend new concepts based on guest demographics and seasonal demand
• Prepare detailed reports and presentations for management
  

• Maintain vendor and exhibit databases
• Track communication with prospective vendors and attractions
• Organize proposals, contracts, and supporting documentation
• Assist in long-range event planning
• Coordinate site visits when needed with potential client/vendor and Special Events Manager

• Minimum 3 years of experience in at least three or more of the following:
  
  • Special Events
  • Event Development
  • Tourism
  • Entertainment Booking
  • Attractions
  • Exhibit Procurement
  • Vendor Relations
  • Festival Planning
• Experience sourcing entertainment, exhibits, or attractions
• Proven ability to build professional relationships
• Strong research and networking abilities
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Highly organized with exceptional follow-up skills
• Ability to work independently in a remote environment
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and Google Workspace
• Willingness to travel to OWA and industry conferences as needed

• Existing network within the entertainment or event industry
• Experience with amusement parks, attractions, museums, or destination marketing organizations
• Knowledge of traveling exhibits and touring productions
• Experience negotiating vendor agreements
• Experience maintaining vendor databases and tracking communications with prospective vendors, exhibitors, and entertainment partners
• Experience working with festivals attracting 10,000+ attendees

• Creative thinker with an eye for unique guest experiences
• Exceptional networking and relationship-building skills
• Strong negotiation abilities
• Excellent time management
• Detail-oriented
• Self-motivated and results-driven
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Professional and polished communication style

• Ability to travel occasionally
• Ability to attend trade shows and industry conferences
• Ability to visit OWA property for planning meetings and event execution when required

Interested applicants can apply directly to www.visitowa.com/employment.
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