Overview

The Garden Club of Jacksonville is seeking a dynamic and detail-oriented Part-time Assistant Rental Manager (part-time, 30 – 35 hours/week) to lead and grow our rentals and internal events at our premier venue. This role is responsible for delivering exceptional client experiences, driving revenue growth, and ensuring seamless execution of all events.

The Assistant Rental Manager serves as a key ambassador of the Garden Club, working collaboratively across teams while maintaining high standards of service, organization, and professionalism. This position reports directly to the Chief Executive Officer.

Responsibilities

Client Experience & Sales

• Deliver exceptional, personalized service to members, prospective clients, renters, and event participants.
• Conduct engaging, tailored venue tours that highlight features aligned with client needs.
• Develop and implement a strategic communication plan to manage and convert rental inquiries into sales.
• Identify and pursue marketing opportunities to increase event bookings and maximize revenue.

Event Planning & Execution

• Oversee all aspects of event coordination, including planning, setup, execution, and breakdown.
• Collaborate with clients and internal teams to design floor plans and finalize event logistics.
• Create and manage detailed event timelines, checklists, and execution plans.
• Ensure all events meet quality standards and client expectations.

Operations & Systems Management

• Maintain and optimize the event management platform (e.g., PlanningPod).
• Keep the master event calendar accurate and up to date.
• Prepare rental agreements, manage invoicing schedules, and track payments.
• Develop, document, and continuously improve standard operating procedures (SOPs) for events.

Team Collaboration & Coordination

• Partner with the Facilities Manager to ensure proper staffing for all event phases.
• Coordinate with the Marketing team to support volunteer engagement and event promotion.
• Communicate effectively with staff, vendors, volunteers, and stakeholders.

Business Development & Community Engagement

• Represent the Garden Club at community events, expos, and networking opportunities.
• Build relationships with vendors, partners, and local organizations.
• Proactively identify trends and opportunities to enhance event offerings and profitability.

Organizational Leadership

• Champion and model the Garden Club’s mission, vision, and values.
• Contribute to cross-functional initiatives and continuous improvement efforts.

Requirements

• 2+ years of experience in event management, hospitality, or a related field preferred.
• Experience with event management or CRM platforms (PlanningPod experience a plus).
• Demonstrated ability to lead, coordinate, and motivate teams.
• Respectful towards leadership and team.
• Strong hands-on event execution skills, including setup, logistics, and A/V coordination.
• Excellent organizational, time management, and multitasking abilities.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Drive, Gmail).
• Ability or interest in learning to manage budgets, track expenses, and forecast revenue.
• Strong problem-solving, analytical, and negotiation skills.
• Professional demeanor and dress
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion.
• Ability to work independently and adapt in a fast-paced environment.
• Availability to work occasional evenings and Saturdays (scheduled in advance).

Education

Associate’s degree or equivalent experience required; Bachelor’s degree preferred.

Salary and Benefits

Salary commensurate with experience.

Simple IRA with 3% employer match

Contact

Qualified applicants should send a cover letter and résumé with three professional references to sonjajones@gardenclubjax.org.