This is a unique and rewarding opportunity to join Creative Spark CLG and champion its high-spec physical environment while driving a vibrant, community-focused events calendar. The Board of Creative Spark CLG is looking for a highly organised and charismatic individual for the role of
Creative Spark Facilities & Events Manager.
Company
Creative Spark CLG is a not-for-profit company and registered charity established to promote the creative industries, including craft, art and design businesses and practitioners in County Louth. The company has a board of twelve directors drawn from the creative industries sector, local government and support agencies. In 2012 we established Creative Spark, providing workspace and training facilities to the creative industries sector and the community within Co. Louth; in 2014 we opened a dedicated fine art Print Studio; in 2022 we added Creative Spark Downtown Hub; and in 2023 we opened our Enterprise FabLab.
Location
The successful candidate will be based at Creative Spark CLG, Muirhevnamor, Dundalk, Co. Louth. Independent travel to other locations will also be required occasionally as the job dictates. A full clean driving licence is a beneficial, but not essential.
Hours per week
hours per week, 8.30 to 5.00, Monday to Friday.
The role is likely to involve some out-of-hours work and the Manager will be required to adopt some flexibility in their working hours.
The compensation for out-of-hours work is included in the basic salary - overtime will not be payable, but time-in-lieu will be allowed.
Reporting Structure
You will report directly to the Executive Director and have responsibilities in delivering KPIs aligned with Creative Spark strategy
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Role Purpose
The Facilities & Events Manager is a critical role responsible for the operational excellence of Creative Spark's physical infrastructure and the seamless delivery of its diverse event programming. You will ensure our hubs are safe, sustainable, and inspiring environments for our community of makers, artists, and entrepreneurs, while also serving as the lead coordinator for all internal and external events. The role includes management of rental of meeting and training rooms and facilities across two busy locations; increasing income from these services; increasing occupant numbers and ensuring increased access for local community to training and facilities.
Key Responsibilities
Facilities & Operations Management
· Oversight of the day-to-day operations of the Muirhevnamor and Downtown sites, ensuring all studios, co-working spaces, meeting / training rooms and creative facilities are maintained to the highest standard.
· Act as the lead Health & Safety Officer. Conduct regular risk assessments, maintain fire safety protocols, and ensure compliance with all HSA regulations.
· Coordinate with internal team and external contractors (plumbing, electrical, IT) for routine maintenance and emergency repairs. Liaise with team members on the upkeep of specialised facilities like the Print Studio, Enterprise FabLab, Darkroom and Textiles Lab.
· Implement and manage sustainable initiatives to reduce the organisation's carbon footprint, focusing on waste management and energy efficiency.
Event Planning & Coordination
· Oversee the planning-to-completion of all events, including outside hire of meeting and training rooms, workshops, networking sessions and exhibitions.
· Serve as the primary point of contact for external venue hire. Manage enquiries, bookings, and logistical requirements for corporate and community clients.
· Ensure all audio-visual, technology, catering, and seating requirements are met for every event. Provide on-site supervision to ensure events run smoothly and on schedule.
· Collaborate with the management team to schedule and facilitate specialised training events, open days and showcases.
Community & Stakeholder Engagement
· Act as a key face of Creative Spark for occupants and members, ensuring their facility needs are met and fostering a collaborative atmosphere.
· Work with the marketing team to provide content for facilities and event promotion and ensure that the centre's brand is reflected in its physical presentation.
Administration & Budgeting
· Attend weekly staff meetings and lead on planning for events and the centre calendar.
· Coordinate Community Services Programme (CSP) staff workloads, timesheets, annual leave and reporting requirements.
· Complete general office administration and any other duties which will contribute to the purpose and function of this post which will be identified by the Executive Director.
· Manage the facilities budget and event-related income and expenditure, ensuring maximum value for money and accurate financial reporting.
· Manage relationships with vendors and suppliers, negotiating contracts for cleaning, security, maintenance and event catering.
Person Specification
Experience & Qualifications
· Experience: 3+ years in facilities management, event management, or operations (ideally within a creative, educational, or non-profit environment).
· Education: A degree or equivalent qualification in Facilities Management, Business, Arts Management, or a related field.
· Technical Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft 365 and familiarity with booking and CRM software (ACT 365, Xero, Salesforce). Knowledge of Health & Safety legislation is essential.
Core Competencies
· Exceptional organisational skills with the ability to manage minor issues one minute and a 100-person conference the next.
· A proactive approach to problem solving and "on-the-day" challenges with a calm and professional demeanour.
· Ability to communicate effectively with a diverse range of stakeholders, from local artists and students to corporate executives.
· Experience of managing people and working in a team.
· Flexibility - as this is an events-led role, a willingness to work occasional early mornings, evenings and weekends is essential.
Duration of Employment:
The position is full-time and temporary, initially on a contract basis for a period not exceeding twenty-one months. A probationary period of three months will apply. The appointment may be terminated on either side by the giving of one month's notice, or, in the event of misconduct or negligence, without notice. The successful applicant will be prohibited from engaging in or having any connection with any outside business or activity which would interfere with the performance of the duties of the position and / or lead to any conflict of interest.
Why Join Creative Spark?
This is an opportunity to be at the heart of the North-East's creative economy. You will play a pivotal role in a social enterprise that is actively shaping the future of innovation and community development in Louth.
Recruitment Timeline:
Advertisement : 20 February 2026.
Deadline closes for application submissions: Friday 13 March @ 5pm.
1st round interviews: week beginning 23 March, potentially online.
2nd round interviews, in person: provisionally 30 March.
How to apply:
Please send a CV and Cover Letter to Application deadline: Friday 13 March at 5pm.
CREATIVE SPARK CLG IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES EMPLOYER
This position is supported by funding from Pobal through the Community Services Programme.