Job Overview
Employment Type
Full-time
Compensation
Salary
Exact $60,000.00
Benefits
Paid Time Off
Paid holidays
Matched retirement plan
Disability insurance
Life insurance
Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Job Description
Stages is a prominent nonprofit performing arts organization based in Houston, Texas, recognized as the city’s sixth largest producer of theatrical productions. Founded in 1978, Stages has a rich history dedicated to making plays and telling stories that inspire audiences to live more deeply and love more boldly. The organization boasts a diverse repertoire that includes jukebox musicals, family entertainment, world premieres, and new works by emerging writers. Stages operates year-round, producing an average of 10 productions each season that draw thousands of visitors, and in 2020, it opened its state-of-the-art $35.4 million three-theater complex, The Gordy, providing a modern venue outside the downtown theater district.
The Special Events Manager position at Stages offers a unique and impactful opportunity for a committed professional to lead the planning and execution of key fundraising and donor engagement events essential to the organization’s development. This full-time, exempt role reports directly to the Development Director and carries a starting salary of $60,000 annually, along with a comprehensive benefits package that includes paid time off, paid holidays, a matched retirement plan, disability and life insurance, as well as health, dental, and vision insurance.
In this role, the Special Events Manager will be instrumental in managing all facets of the annual Gala, donor cultivation events, stewardship activities, opening night receptions, and various other special events that support Stages’ fundraising goals and community engagement. The manager works collaboratively across multiple departments such as Development, Marketing, Production, Operations, and Front of House, ensuring seamless coordination of promotional materials, venue logistics, technical requirements, and overall event success. This leadership position is responsible for creating exceptional event experiences that not only foster meaningful relationships with donors, sponsors, board members, artists, and stakeholders but also underpin the organization's mission and growth strategy.
Ideal candidates for the Special Events Manager role will possess strong project management and organizational skills, a proven ability to handle complex events involving diverse stakeholders, and an entrepreneurial mindset balanced with a collaborative approach. The individual thrives under pressure, excels in details management, and is enthusiastic about contributing to a vibrant arts organization during a transformative period. This role offers the chance to drive impactful events that directly advance Stages’ fundraising initiatives, enhance donor stewardship, and elevate the overall cultural presence of the organization within Houston’s arts scene. As a part of Stages’ welcoming and inclusive culture, the Special Events Manager will embody professionalism, creativity, and a deep passion for the performing arts, making a significant difference in the community through their leadership and dedication.
The Special Events Manager position at Stages offers a unique and impactful opportunity for a committed professional to lead the planning and execution of key fundraising and donor engagement events essential to the organization’s development. This full-time, exempt role reports directly to the Development Director and carries a starting salary of $60,000 annually, along with a comprehensive benefits package that includes paid time off, paid holidays, a matched retirement plan, disability and life insurance, as well as health, dental, and vision insurance.
In this role, the Special Events Manager will be instrumental in managing all facets of the annual Gala, donor cultivation events, stewardship activities, opening night receptions, and various other special events that support Stages’ fundraising goals and community engagement. The manager works collaboratively across multiple departments such as Development, Marketing, Production, Operations, and Front of House, ensuring seamless coordination of promotional materials, venue logistics, technical requirements, and overall event success. This leadership position is responsible for creating exceptional event experiences that not only foster meaningful relationships with donors, sponsors, board members, artists, and stakeholders but also underpin the organization's mission and growth strategy.
Ideal candidates for the Special Events Manager role will possess strong project management and organizational skills, a proven ability to handle complex events involving diverse stakeholders, and an entrepreneurial mindset balanced with a collaborative approach. The individual thrives under pressure, excels in details management, and is enthusiastic about contributing to a vibrant arts organization during a transformative period. This role offers the chance to drive impactful events that directly advance Stages’ fundraising initiatives, enhance donor stewardship, and elevate the overall cultural presence of the organization within Houston’s arts scene. As a part of Stages’ welcoming and inclusive culture, the Special Events Manager will embody professionalism, creativity, and a deep passion for the performing arts, making a significant difference in the community through their leadership and dedication.
Job Requirements
- 3-5 years of experience in event management, fundraising events, nonprofit development, hospitality or related field
- demonstrated experience planning and executing complex events with multiple stakeholders
- strong entrepreneurial spirit, with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively
- strong project management, organizational, and time management skills
- excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
- experience managing event budgets and vendor relationships
- a positive, customer-focused approach to work
- experience juggling concurrent tasks and deadlines while maintaining quality
- flexibility to work a varying schedule including days, some evenings and occasional weekends
- passion for Stages’ work and desire to play a vital role during a transformational period of growth
Job Qualifications
- 3-5 years of experience in event management, fundraising events, nonprofit development, hospitality or related field
- demonstrated experience planning and executing complex events with multiple stakeholders
- strong entrepreneurial spirit, with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively
- strong project management, organizational, and time management skills
- excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
- experience managing event budgets and vendor relationships
- a positive, customer-focused approach to work
- experience juggling concurrent tasks and deadlines while maintaining quality
- flexibility to work a varying schedule including days, some evenings and occasional weekends
- passion for Stages’ work and desire to play a vital role during a transformational period of growth
- confidence in a variety of business and social settings, and building relationships with people in a wide range of roles and industries
- experience working in a nonprofit, arts, or cultural organization
Job Duties
- Lead planning and execution of Stages' annual Gala, donor cultivation and stewardship events, opening night receptions, sponsor hospitality, board functions, and other engagement activities
- develop comprehensive event plans, timelines, production schedules, run-of-show documents, and logistics
- serve as the primary event lead during assigned events, overseeing successful on-site execution and post-event evaluation
- partner with the Development team to advance fundraising, sponsorship, donor cultivation, and stewardship goals through special events
- coordinate sponsorship fulfillment, donor recognition, sponsor benefits, and event-based fundraising activities, including auctions, raffles, and paddle raises
- create exceptional hospitality and engagement experiences for donors, sponsors, board members, artists, and community stakeholders
- coordinate guest lists, invitations, RSVPs, seating, event communications, volunteers, and event committees
- collaborate with the Development Director on event budgets and financial projections
- track event expenses, revenue, sponsorship commitments, and fundraising outcomes
- negotiate and manage vendor contracts and service agreements
- maintain event documentation, reporting, and planning materials
- ensure event activities comply with organizational policies and procedures
- partner with Development, Marketing, Production, Operations, and Front of House teams to coordinate promotional materials, venue logistics, and technical requirements necessary for successful events
- other duties as assigned
Job Criteria
Experience
Mid Level (3-7 years)
Job Location
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