Programs & Activations Manager

Job Description: 

To have a strong region, you must have a strong city. To be a strong city, you must have a strong core. Downtown Cleveland Inc.’s (DCI) mission is to attract talent, jobs, residents, and investment through market influence, community impact, and irresistible experiences.   

DCI is seeking a creative and collaborative Programs Activations Manager to curate events that activate Downtown’s public spaces and create exciting experiences. The Programs  Activations Manager reports directly to the Programs  Activations Director and works with the Programs  Activations Team, whose primary responsibilities are to develop, execute, and manage consistent and culturally relevant programming and events in Downtown’s public spaces, including but not limited to Public Square and Voinovich Park. In 2025, the team managed 350 programs and brought fun unique experiences that instilled community pride showcasing an animated downtown. 

Primary Responsibilities: 

Support Programs  Activations team in the development of programs, events, and public space activations that enrich the vibrancy of Downtown Cleveland and provide fun, unique experiences. Among other responsibilities, the Programs Activations Manager will: 

• Create and execute contracts, manage permitting, secure vendors and talent, structure and maintain event budgets, and prepare financial and attendance reports 
• Coordinate logistics, staff, and oversee all aspects of production to ensure that events and activations run smoothly 
• Coordinate with sponsors to secure funding for events 
• Deliver high-quality events and programming that build community pride and animate Downtown 

Job Environment: 

Programs   Activations Manager is a full-time position that maintains a flexible schedule. 

• Required to work nights, weekends, and holidays as needed, including but not limited to 4th of July and Thanksgiving weekend. 
• Must be able to work extensively outdoors in various weather conditions, as well as able to complete administrative work in office. 
• Ability to set up and break down events, occasionally lifting up to 50 lbs. with assistance. 
• Interact with the public, work across departments, and communicate effectively with all parties involved in the event planning process. 

Qualifications & Required Skills 

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in a related field (event production, project management, hospitality or other applicable emphasis) 
• Minimum two (2) years professional experience 
• Able to anticipate project needs, discern work priorities, and meet deadlines with little supervision 
• Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills 
• Must be driven, open to learning, and able to exercise sound judgement in decision making 
• Strong team orientation, emotional intelligence, and problem-solving skills 
• Action and results oriented, organized, collaborative and creative 

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• HSA employer contribution
• FSA self-funded plan
• 403b retirement match
• Vacation & personal (includes sick) leave

EEO Statement

Downtown Cleveland is an equal opportunity employer and strongly encourages individuals of all backgrounds and cultures to consider this position. DCA’s commitment to inclusivity encompasses but is not limited to diversity in race, nationality, ethnicity, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, and disability.