Development Manager, Special Events at New York Shakespeare Festival | NY, US | Rezi

Development Manager, Special Events at New York Shakespeare Festival

Development Manager, Special Events

New York Shakespeare Festival · NY, US

2 days ago

Development Manager, Special Events

New York Shakespeare Festival · NY, US

2 days ago
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About the Role

The Public Theater is seeking a dynamic and highly organized Manager, Special Events to join its fast-paced Special Events Department. This role will play a key part in planning and executing high-profile cultivation and fundraising events, as well as Opening Nights for The Public Theater’s season and Shakespeare in the Park. The Manager will oversee multiple events and projects simultaneously, working collaboratively across departments and with external partners to ensure seamless event execution. The ideal candidate is exceptionally detail-oriented, proactive, adaptable, and thrives in a fast-paced environment. This role will also supervise one direct report.

Responsibilities

  • Lead the planning and execution of a wide range of Public Theater events, including Opening Nights, partner events, cultivation events, and fundraising events, while supporting the Annual Gala.
  • Serve as a key liaison across Public Theater departments to coordinate event logistics.
  • Manage event logistics and vendor needs, including ticketing, deliveries, storage, audio/visual, DJs, security, lighting, and catering.
  • Establish and maintain event ticket allotments and work strategically to maximize attendance and engagement.
  • Coordinate with internal stakeholders to build and generate invitation lists and event reports from the Tessitura database.
  • Oversee event information in Tessitura, including booking contributions, ticket orders, and RSVPs.
  • Manage ticketing, seating, guest lists, talking points, and other logistical details for various events.
  • Serve as a primary point of contact for donors and guests, providing timely and professional event information.
  • Partner with the Director of Special Events to conceptualize and plan the annual calendar of cultivation and fundraising events.
  • Collaborate with the Graphics Liaison to develop invitation and collateral copy.
  • Work closely with the Communications Manager to draft and distribute event invitations, confirmations, and other attendee communications.
  • Oversee event preparation and guest experience, including place cards, seating labels, and attendee communications.
  • Provide onsite leadership and support at events, including guest check-in, donor relations, troubleshooting, and vendor coordination.
  • Track event expenses and assist with event budgets; review, process, and track vendor invoices and payments.
  • Supervise and support the Associate, Special Events, providing direction and oversight.
  • Solicit auction items and cultivate and maintain liquor sponsor relationships.
  • Oversee the acknowledgement process and pledge payment follow-up for all fundraising events.
  • Communicate event plans, timelines, logistics, and updates to the Development department and other internal stakeholders.
  • Oversee invitation mailings and other administrative responsibilities.

Requirements

  • 3-5 years of experience in event planning, logistics, fundraising, or a related field, preferably within the nonprofit, cultural, arts, or entertainment sectors.
  • Demonstrated experience managing multiple events and projects simultaneously, with the ability to prioritize effectively and work independently in a fast-paced environment.
  • Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to anticipate needs, solve problems, and manage competing priorities.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively and professionally with colleagues, donors, vendors, and external partners.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Proven ability to make sound decisions, take initiative, and remain calm and resourceful in a high-pressure environment.
  • Experience supervising or managing staff.
  • Experience with fiscal management, budgeting, expense tracking, and vendor invoices.
  • Ability to work evenings and weekends as required for events, including occasional physical work and heavy lifting.
  • Flexibility to work regular onsite days as part of a hybrid schedule.
  • Knowledge of Tessitura, Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook required; familiarity with the NYC theater and events industry is a plus.

Skills

  • Event planning
  • Logistics management
  • Fundraising
  • Vendor management
  • Ticketing
  • Audio/visual coordination
  • Catering coordination
  • Database management (Tessitura)
  • Budget management
  • Expense tracking
  • Invoice processing
  • Staff supervision
  • Microsoft Word
  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Outlook

Location

  • New York, NY

Work Type

  • Full-time
  • Hybrid

Experience Level

  • Managerial
  • 3-5 years

Salary/Compensations

  • $69,000

Benefits

  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Work-Life Services
  • Flexible paid time off
  • One paid "day of service" each year
  • Flexible work arrangements
  • Commuter benefits
  • Flexible spending accounts for healthcare
  • Pension
  • 403(b) Retirement Savings Plan
  • Life insurance
  • Disability coverage
  • Discounted gym memberships
  • Free and discounted theater tickets

About the Company

  • The Public Theater is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment.

Equal Opportunity

  • The Public Theater is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.
  • Applicants from populations underrepresented in the theater field are strongly encouraged to apply.
  • All qualified applications will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, familial status, sexual orientation, national origin, ability, age, or veteran status.