The ongoing search for a new executive director for the Vibrant Arena at the Mark is attracting multiple candidates, according to the leader of the Illinois Quad Cities Civic Center Authority (IQCCA) committee handling the search.
The executive search is being conducted for the authority by Kittleman and Associates. It seeks to find a permanent replacement for longtime leader Scott Mullen. He was fired in July 2025 after a trio of Operating While Intoxicated arrests, including in company vehicles, the authority said.
“The IQCCA Executive Search for an executive director is well underway and proceeding on schedule with our executive search firm,” Moline City Administrator Bob Vitas, who chairs the board’s search committee, told the QCBJ on Tuesday, Feb. 17.
“Not much can be shared at this time but I will say that we are receiving many applications from qualified candidates,” he added.
Mr. Vitas added that he hopes the executive search will be completed in May.
As the authority continues its executive director search, Vibrant Arena is led by Rocky Jones, the Moline arena’s assistant executive director and director of finance.
Mr. Mullen had captained the civic center for 20 years before his termination for not fully reporting his OWI arrests.
The executive posting for his replacement sets the executive director salary range at $200,000 to $225,000. It also said a board-designated bonus, which will be tied to strategic initiatives, will be a component of the compensation package.
A pivotal moment
“The arena is at a pivotal moment, presenting a unique opportunity for a new leader to make a transformative impact,” Kittleman’s December 2025 executive director position guide added. “The organization will welcome in their Executive Director after having a long-tenured leader for over 20 years.”
In addition, the document said, “As a community-owned entity, it has a strong connection to the local community but faces challenges in an ever-changing environment that require strategic leadership and vision.”
The post also said, “The organization has the potential to attract larger talent, such as rising stars, and diversify its offerings with popular acts like country western shows. Focusing on core relationships with key stakeholders, including promoters, artists, the City of Moline, and the business community, will be essential to securing its fair share of the market.”
In addition to seeking a new executive director, the civic center authority also recently became a member of a critical downtown Moline development organization.
“We’re thrilled to welcome the Illinois Quad City Civic Center Authority, managers of the Vibrant Arena at the MARK, to the Renew Moline Board of Directors!” Renew Moline announced in a LinkedIn post.
“The Vibrant Arena has long been a cornerstone of downtown Moline, hosting events that bring people together and support a vibrant city center. As we continue working alongside the Civic Center Authority, we’re looking ahead to new opportunities to build on that momentum and enhance downtown experiences in thoughtful, collaborative ways,” Renew Moline said.
