District Programming & Ecosystem Development Manager

Major Responsibilities:

• Survey and work with the Innovation Districts' tenants, local community members and internal and external stakeholders to design an annual calendar of events and programs within the districts.
• Implement and identify resources to support weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annual events and activities that align with the districts' needs and objectives.
• Curate outdoor activations that enhance the community experience and showcase the Innovation Quarter.
• Develop strategies to ensure strong event participation, community awareness, and engagement.
• Lead all aspects of event design, promotion, coordination and implementation (including the recruitment, training and mobilization of event volunteers, vendors, etc.).
• Create an annual budget related to programming and activation of the districts, process invoices, assist with vendor set up and reconciling expenditures. Prepare budgetary and attendance reports as required.
• Identify and source funding sponsors to offset event costs.
• Oversee the ideation and implementation of The Quarter's property management team regarding all tenant events and amenity related activities taking place within the districts.
• Collaborate and align with Advocate Health marketing and communications team to inform a marketing strategy to successfully promote programmed events and drive The Innovation Quarter's brand.
• Drive and track district connections and engagement among district tenants and community members.
• Lead the implementation of annual tenant survey census and input relevant district data into CRM.

Licensure, Registration, and/or Certification Required:

• NA

Education Required:

• Bachelor’s degree or 2 years demonstrated experience in a relevant field (e.g., university administration, community development, corporate engagement, communications)

Experience Required:

• Bachelor’s degree or 2 years demonstrated experience in a relevant field (e.g., university administration, community development, corporate engagement, communications)

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Required:

• Proven experience in events and programming, community engagement, project management, or a related role
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships at all levels
• Strategic thinker with the ability to develop and execute innovative initiatives
• A self-starter with ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, and balance multiple priorities

Preferred Experience

Experience working within a university or innovation district organization

Preferred Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

Knowledge of current trends and best practices in community design, experiential marketing, and inclusion a plus

Understanding of workforce development, contracting, and procurement practices is a plus

This job description indicates the general nature and level of work expected of the incumbent. It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities required of the incumbent. Incumbent may be required to perform other related duties.