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Live Event Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

16 On Center

Event Manager

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$60K - $65K/yr

Description About Us: 16 On Center Chicago owns and operates several live music venues, third-party ... Position Summary As the Event Manager at 16 On Center , you will work collaboratively with the ...

New

Kehoe Designs Inc

Event Technical Support

Chicago, IL · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

This is a hands-on role for someone with live event, staffing, and AVL experience who enjoys coordinating crews, managing staffing needs and schedules, working on-site, supporting event setups, and ...

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All JobsLive Event JobsLive Event Manager JobsLive Event Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL

Live Event Manager information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$27.3K

$64.6K

$103.5K

How much do live event manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for live event manager in Chicago, IL is $64,625.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,400.00 and $77,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a live event manager do?

A Live Event Manager is responsible for planning, coordinating, and overseeing all aspects of live events such as concerts, conferences, festivals, and corporate gatherings. Their duties include managing budgets, securing venues, coordinating with vendors, supervising staff, and ensuring that the event runs smoothly from start to finish. They also handle logistics, troubleshoot issues during the event, and work closely with clients to meet their expectations. Strong organizational and communication skills are essential for success in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a live event manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Live Event Manager, you need strong organizational skills, experience in event planning, and often a degree in event management or a related field. Familiarity with event management software, audiovisual equipment, and budgeting tools is typically required. Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills help you coordinate teams and respond effectively to on-the-fly challenges. These skills ensure seamless event execution, client satisfaction, and the ability to manage complex logistics under pressure.

What are some common challenges faced by live event managers and how can they be overcome?

Live Event Managers often encounter challenges such as last-minute changes, technical difficulties, and managing diverse teams under tight timelines. Effective communication, thorough planning, and having contingency plans in place are vital for overcoming these obstacles. Building strong relationships with vendors and team members also helps ensure smooth coordination during high-pressure moments. Flexibility and quick problem-solving skills are essential to adapt to unexpected situations and maintain a successful event experience.

What is the difference between Live Event Manager vs Event Coordinator?

AspectLive Event ManagerEvent Coordinator
CredentialsRelevant experience, certifications like CMP or CSEP often preferredSimilar experience, often entry-level certifications or none required
Work EnvironmentLeads large-scale events, manages teams, on-site supervisionAssists with planning, logistics, and coordination, often behind the scenes
Employer & IndustryEvent management companies, corporations, venuesEvent planning firms, nonprofits, corporate event teams

The Live Event Manager typically oversees the entire event process, managing teams and ensuring smooth execution of large events. The Event Coordinator focuses more on planning, logistics, and supporting the event, often working under the manager's supervision. Both roles require strong organizational skills, but the Live Event Manager usually has more responsibility for on-site decision-making and team leadership.

What are popular job titles related to Live Event Manager jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Live Event Manager jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Live Event Manager jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Live Event Manager jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Live Event Manager jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Live Event Manager job openings:

Live Event Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Live Event Manager job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,625 per year, or $31.1 per hour.

Event Manager

16 On Center

Chicago, IL • Hybrid

$60K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

Description

About Us:


16 On Center Chicago owns and operates several live music venues, third-party production, restaurants, bars, and food halls across Chicago and New York. Join the team of one of the country's leading independent promoters.


Our most effective service to our community comes from a team with a diverse mix of minds, backgrounds, and experiences. 16 On Center actively seeks a diverse applicant pool and encourages candidates of all backgrounds to apply. We provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment, without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, neurodiversity, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.


Position Summary


As the Event Manager at 16 On Center, you will work collaboratively with the events and venue teams and embody 16 OC's "hospit-totally" spirit and can-do attitude. This role is responsible for identifying, attracting, and securing event bookings that drive revenue and achieve sales targets. In addition, you will develop and implement marketing strategies, establish and nurture client relationships, and ensure a seamless planning process from inquiry through execution.


Additional responsibilities include but are not limited to:


Sales and Revenue Generation

  • Proactively identify and qualify potential leads to build a robust sales pipeline
  • Develop and implement effective sales strategies to meet and exceed monthly, quarterly, and annual sales targets
  • Negotiate pricing, contracts, and packages to secure event bookings
  • Track and report on progress toward revenue goals, upsells, and repeat business

Marketing and Promotion

  • Create and execute marketing strategies and promotional materials to attract prospective clients
  • Present and implement annual marketing plans to grow top-line revenue
  • Leverage digital marketing, social media, and advertising to raise awareness and generate leads
  • Represent the portfolio of venues at industry events, trade shows, and networking opportunities

Client Relationship Management

  • Build and maintain long-term client relationships, serving as a trusted partner throughout the planning process
  • Deliver excellent customer service and proactive communication from inquiry to post-event follow-up
  • Work cross-functionally with culinary, beverage, operations, and marketing teams to ensure seamless event delivery

Event Operations

  • Lead client site visits and serve as the primary point of contact for on-site needs during event execution
  • Collaborate with internal teams to align logistics, staffing, and client expectations
  • Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as dictated by event schedule

Financial Management

  • Prepare event budgets and design proposals for clients
  • Monitor costs, margins, and profitability to achieve financial goals

Market Research

  • Stay current with industry trends, competitors, and emerging marketing opportunities
  • Use market insights to tailor offerings and remain competitive

Reporting

  • Generate regular reports on sales performance, revenue collected, and client feedback
  • Present data-driven recommendations to leadership

Requirements

About You:

  • 4-6 years of experience in sales, business development, or event planning
  • Bachelor's degree in business, marketing, hospitality, or related field preferred, or equivalent combination of education and relevant experience
  • Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills
  • Knowledge of event industry trends, pricing strategies, and best practices
  • Proficiency in using Tripleseat, Creative Suite, Canva, Microsoft Office, and Social Tables
  • Strong organizational and project management skills
  • Creative thinking and problem-solving abilities
  • Flexibility and adaptability to thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment
  • Ability to meet the physical demands of the role, including standing for extended periods, moving throughout venues, and occasionally lifting or carrying materials up to 25 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation

Position Details

  • Job Type: Full-time, Exempt
  • Schedule: Hybrid schedule with standard office hours, plus evenings, weekends, and holidays as required by the event calendar
  • Compensation: $60k - $65k + Commission
  • Benefits: Health insurance with employer contribution; voluntary dental, vision, short-term disability, accident, and hospital coverage; employer-paid life insurance; voluntary life insurance; 401(k) retirement plan with company match; PTO

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