ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Event Planning Director Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Hy-Vee, Inc.

RPC Event Manager

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

Completes and files event summaries with RPC Director, Assistant Director, and Sales Manager. * Independently resolve significant client issues during planning or execution of events (e.g., major ...

HyVee

RPC Event Manager

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

Completes and files event summaries with RPC Director, Assistant Director, and Sales Manager. * Independently resolve significant client issues during planning or execution of events (e.g., major ...

Manatt's

Director, Marketing

Ankeny, IA · On-site

... event planning and marketing resources as needed Provide on-site leadership and support for ... Services Direct development of marketing collateral, presentations, promotional materials ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsEvent Planning JobsEvent Planning Director JobsEvent Planning Director Jobs in Iowa

Event Planning Director information

What does an event planning director do?

An Event Planning Director oversees the planning, coordination, and execution of various events such as conferences, corporate meetings, weddings, and large gatherings. They manage teams, budget, logistics, vendor relationships, and ensure that events run smoothly from conception to completion. Their role often includes strategic planning, supervising staff, and liaising with clients to meet specific goals and expectations. Excellent organizational, communication, and leadership skills are essential for this position.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an event planning director?

To thrive as an Event Planning Director, you need expertise in project management, budgeting, and vendor negotiation, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in hospitality, marketing, or a related field. Familiarity with event management software such as Cvent or Social Tables, and certifications like Certified Meeting Professional (CMP), are highly valued. Outstanding organizational skills, creativity, and strong leadership are essential soft skills for managing teams and delivering memorable experiences. These abilities are crucial for executing seamless events that meet client objectives while adhering to timelines and budgets.

What are some common challenges faced by event planning directors when managing large-scale events?

Event Planning Directors often encounter challenges such as coordinating logistics across multiple vendors, ensuring clear communication among large teams, and adapting quickly to last-minute changes or unforeseen issues. They must also manage budgets carefully while maintaining high-quality standards and client satisfaction. Strong organizational skills and the ability to remain calm under pressure are essential for overcoming these challenges and delivering successful events.

What is the difference between Event Planning Director vs Event Coordinator?

AspectEvent Planning DirectorEvent Coordinator
ResponsibilitiesOversees entire event planning process, manages teams, and sets strategic goalsHandles specific tasks, coordinates logistics, and assists with event setup
CredentialsTypically requires experience in event management, often a degree in hospitality or related fieldOften requires similar credentials but with less managerial experience
Work EnvironmentCorporate offices, large event venues, or client sitesEvent sites, venues, or client locations
Industry UsageUsed in corporate, nonprofit, and large-scale event planningCommon in all event types, especially smaller or local events

The main difference between an Event Planning Director and an Event Coordinator lies in scope and responsibility. The Director oversees the entire event process and manages teams, while the Coordinator focuses on executing specific tasks. Both roles require relevant experience and credentials, but the Director's role is more strategic and managerial.

What are the most commonly searched types of Event Planning jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Event Planning jobs in Iowa are:

Event Planning Director jobs near you

RPC Event Manager

Hy-Vee, Inc.

West Des Moines, IA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Hy-Vee rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 1,664 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

46th of 123 rated grocery stores

Job description

Additional Considerations (if any):
-
At Hy-Vee our people are our strength. We promise "a helpful smile in every aisle" and those smiles can only come from a workforce that is fully engaged and committed to supporting our customers and each other.
Job Description:
Job Title: Event Manager
Department: Ron Pearson Center
Pay Type: Salary
Revision Date: August 2026
General Function:
The Event Manager serves as the primary liaison for clients hosting events at the Ron Pearson Center (RPC), managing all aspects of event planning and execution to ensure exceptional guest experiences. This role works closely with both internal Hy-Vee teams and external clients to coordinate event logistics, including room layouts, audiovisual needs, catering, and setup. The manager oversees events from initial planning through completion, resolves issues in real time, ensures compliance with safety and service standards, and provides post-event follow-up. In addition, the role contributes to continuous improvement by developing planning protocols, training staff, analyzing client feedback, and recommending enhancements to event packages, pricing strategies, and client retention initiatives.
Reporting Relationships:
Accountable and Reports to: Director, Ron Pearson Center & Conferences
Direct Reports: None
Primary Responsibilities:
  • Provides prompt, efficient, and friendly customer service to all guests of the RPC.
  • Meets with assigned contracted clients of the RPC to plan all details of their event.
  • Serves as client contact for the RPC during assigned event.
  • Works with RPC food service, A/V, and setup teams to deliver the best options for contracted clients and RPC/Hy-Vee.
  • Communicates with A/V to design/collaborate room layouts for events at the RPC.
  • Oversees and manages all aspects of assigned events.
  • Delivers successful and well-managed events meeting all the expectations of the client.
  • Follows up with event contact before, during, and at the conclusion of the event.
  • Communicates with the event contact to ensure all RPC aspects of the event were a success.
  • Sends handwritten thank you letter to event contact.
  • Communicates with RPC Sales Manager on rebooking needs of the client.
  • Works with Ron Pearson Center Sales Manager to confirm accuracy of billable items for invoicing.
  • Completes and files event summaries with RPC Director, Assistant Director, and Sales Manager.
  • Independently resolve significant client issues during planning or execution of events (e.g., major service complaints, contractual disagreements) without requiring pre-approval.
  • Ensure all events meet company policies and legal compliance standards (e.g., safety, alcohol service, occupancy limits).
  • Develop and implement standardized event planning protocols and policies, including best practices for customer engagement, venue setup, and service delivery.
  • Assist with training programs for RPC staff (e.g., banquet captains, servers) on event execution standards, customer service expectations, and emergency response procedures.
  • Design event packages and pricing recommendations based on analysis of past event profitability, seasonal trends, and client demand.
  • Collaborate with the Ron Pearson Center Director, Assistant Director and Executive Chef on enforcing policies, booking guidelines, cancellation policies, and standards of conduct for external clients.
  • Collaborate with the Sales Manager and Director to develop strategic initiatives for client retention and new business acquisition, including event promotions or loyalty programs.
  • Analyze customer feedback and post-event surveys to recommend improvements to event offerings or services
  • Reports to work when scheduled and on time.

Education and Experience:
High school diploma or equivalent required. Bachelor's Degree in Event Planning preferred or 3-5 years previous related work experience preferred.
Physical Requirements:
  • Must be able to stand and walk for extended periods of time.
  • Visual requirements include vision from less than 20 inches to more than 20 feet with or without correction, depth perception, color vision, and field of vision.
  • Must be able to climb, balance, kneel, reach, stand, walk, pull, lift, grasp, feel, talk, hear, and perform repetitive movement.
  • Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, as needed for events.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Worker Characteristics:
  • Commitment to the Hy-Vee mission and a willingness to promote the values of the company.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Superior interpersonal skills; ability to relate to and interact with other people in a friendly, professional manner.
  • Ability to identify problems, develop and execute solutions.
  • Ability to interact with advanced computer systems, including schedule management and presentation production applications, as well as job-specific programs.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills required.
  • Commitment to the Hy-Vee Mission and a willingness to promote the values of the company.
  • Strong interpersonal skills. An ability to relate to and interact with other people in a friendly, professional manner.
  • Ability to identify problems, develop and execute solutions.

Working Conditions:
Duties are performed in an office and food service setting. Frequent pressure to meet deadlines and handle multiple projects in a day.
Equipment:
Calculator, copier, telephone, printers, Microsoft Office programs, and specialized event software.
Contacts:
Frequent contact with Hy-Vee management employees, outside customers, vendors, and advertising contacts.
Financial Responsibility:
Limited
Confidentiality:
Limited
Are you ready to smile, apply today.
Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a pre employment drug screen.

What Hy-Vee employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Hy-Vee logo

About Hy-Vee

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Hy-Vee, based in West Des Moines, IA, US, operates within the supermarket industry. Founded in 1930 by Charles Hyde and David Vredenburg, the company began as a small general store in Beaconsfield, Iowa. Over the years, Hy-Vee has evolved into a network of more than 245 supermarkets across 8 states in the Midwest. They offer a wide range of products and services, including grocery, bakery items, delicatessen, floral, and other specialty departments. With a company motto of “A helpful smile in every aisle”, Hy-Vee's mission is to make each customer's life easier, healthier, and happier. They have received several awards for their commitment to healthy living, customer service and community outreach.

Industry

Retail

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

West Des Moines, IA, US

Year founded

1930

View All Hy-Vee Jobs

Apply