Title: Manager, Placemaking & Marketing, DDP

Department:  Downtown Davenport Partnership

Reports To: Director, Program and Events, DDP

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Location: Davenport, IA

Salary: $45,000 - $55,000

Job Summary:

The Downtown Davenport Partnership (DDP) Placemaking & Marketing Manager is responsible for fostering relationships with downtown businesses, coordinating logistics for placemaking event activations, and marketing the downtown Davenport experience. Reporting to the DDP Program & Events Director, the position plays a central role in promoting DDP initiatives, organizing events, and enhancing downtown’s visibility via creative storytelling. 

DDP’s mission is to administer and operate programs for the improvement and redevelopment of Davenport’s Central Business District, creating a thriving and attractive downtown. Through place management services for Davenport’s Self-Supporting Municipal Improvement Districts (SSMID), DDP supports Business & Economic Growth, Infrastructure & Livability, and Advocacy & Promotion. DDP is an affiliate of the Quad Cities Chamber.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities: 

1. Business Engagement and Downtown Promotions 

• Develops and maintains strong relationships with downtown business and property owners to foster a collaborative business community 

• Communicates effectively with stakeholders to enhance connection to DDP initiatives and events. 

• Promotes downtown businesses and experiences via social media through marketing and engagement strategies that position downtown as an inclusive and welcoming destination 

• Collaborates with the QC Chamber Communications Department to drive community awareness of downtown businesses, DDP programs and align with broader regional Chamber goals  

2. Event Logistics and Downtown Placemaking Activations 

• Leads public placemaking activations and other initiatives to create engaging, community-friendly downtown experiences 

• Supports the coordination of logistics and marketing for major DDP events, including Alternating Currents, Red, White & Boom, Bix, and Icestravaganza, ensuring seamless planning and execution 

• Works closely with vendors, volunteers, and internal teams to manage timelines, resources, and maintaining a high level of organization for efficient event management  

3. Administrative and Data Management 

• Maintains internal database of business listings, stakeholder contacts, and event logistics 

• Oversees and executes regular web updates, ensuring accurate and timely information about events, promotions, and downtown initiatives is maintained across all digital platforms. 

• Assists in gathering and reporting annual DDP Key Performance Indicator data in collaboration with the DDP Executive Director 

• Provides support for DDP Board and committee meetings, ensuring organized meetings 

Reporting Relationships: 

This position reports to the DDP Program & Events Director and works in close collaboration with the Quad Cities Chamber Communications Department. 

Education and/or Experience: 

• Bachelor’s Degree: Marketing, Communications, Business, Sales, Journalism, PR, or related field 

• 1-2 years+ of experience in related field preferred; non-profit experience a plus 

Web and Software Proficiency: 

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications including Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint 

• Experience with social media and web content management 

• Familiarity with Canva or similar design tools is a plus  

Characteristics, Skills & Qualities: 

• Ability to manage multiple initiatives and projects simultaneously 

• Ability to meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment 

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills 

• Strong organizational, time management and follow-through skills 

• Ability to build and maintain effective work relationships both internally and externally 

• Availability to occasionally work non-traditional hours (early AM; evenings, weekends, holidays) 

• Knowledge of programs and activities of the Chamber/DDP, taking initiative to educate him/herself on programs and events and their relevance to downtown stakeholders 

• Willingness to face difficult topics and situations head-on, without procrastination 

• Demonstrable integrity and professionalism in keeping with Chamber standards of conduct 

• Ability to be pragmatic without compromising principles and high standards of performance 

Travel: 5% 

Physical Requirements: 

• Ability to listen, hear, speak, read, sit, or stand for intermittently long periods of time. Must be able to use a PC to accomplish a variety of job tasks and operate standard office equipment. 

• Weight lifted/Force exerted – An average of approximately 20 pounds, less than 1/3 of on-the-job time, non-continuously

TO APPLY
Email a copy of your resume and cover letter to hr@quadcitieschamber.com