Job Description

WHAT YOU’LL BE DOING:

May include, but not limited to:

The Senior Booking Manager will be responsible for leading programming and revenue-generating event acquisition for Wings Event Center and coming soon the Kalamazoo Event Center. This person is responsible for developing and executing the overall booking strategy for a 6,500-seat arena that hosts ECHL hockey, WMU hockey and basketball, concerts, comedy, family shows, sporting events, and private rentals.

Key Responsibilities:

Event Booking & Revenue Growth

• Secure revenue-generating events including concerts, comedy shows, family entertainment, sporting events, specialty attractions, and community events

• Negotiate offers, contracts, deal structures, and settlements (guarantee vs. percentage, co-promote, four-wall, rental)

• Develop and execute annual programming strategy to maximize utilization and revenue

• Build and maintain strong relationships with promoters, agents, managers, touring personnel, and production companies

• Stay current on industry trends, artist routing patterns, and emerging content

• Develop self-produced or owned event concepts in collaboration with internal departments

Financial & Strategic Oversight

• Develop annual booking revenue projections and programming budgets

• Collaborate with Finance to analyze event P&Ls, settlement reports, and per cap performance to ensure accurate forecasting and reporting

• Work closely with Marketing and the Sponsorship team to develop promotional strategies that maximize ticket sales, brand awareness and ancillary revenues.

• Coordinate with Operations and Production to ensure smooth execution of all booked events

• Maintain client relationships through contracting, advancing, event execution, and settlement

• Attend the majority of booked events to ensure client satisfaction and operational excellence

• Lead or co-chair programming and event strategy meetings

Community & Institutional Engagement

• Collaborate with local community organizations and non-profits on events

• Support Western Michigan University and ECHL Kalamazoo Wings tenant scheduling coordination

Qualifications:

• Minimum 4–6 years of progressive experience in live event booking, talent buying, or promoter relations, preferably in arenas, theatres, or multi-purpose venues. Bachelor’s degree preferred

• Demonstrated experience negotiating concert and live event contracts

• Strong understanding of deal structures (guarantee, vs. % split, co-promote)

• Proven ability to build and maintain industry relationships

• Financial acumen and experience reviewing P&Ls and settlements

• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment with multiple priorities

• Strong communication skills across departments and external partners

• Must be available to work nights, weekends, and holidays as the event schedule requires

• Moderate travel (up to 10%) for industry conferences, promoter meetings, and networking opportunities

• Ability to lift up to 15 pounds and move throughout the arena during events