Summary:

As the Executive Director of Norsk Hostfest, you will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of the festival's operations, ensuring its success, growth, and sustainability. You will be the driving force behind the festival's strategic vision, community engagement, programming, fundraising efforts, and overall management. This role requires a dynamic leader with a passion for Scandinavian culture, excellent organizational skills, strong communication abilities, and a proven track record in event management or cultural festival administration.

Responsibilities:

1) Strategic Leadership: Develop and execute a long-term strategic plan for the festival, focusing on growth, innovation, and community impact.

2) Program Development: Curate and coordinate a diverse range of cultural, artistic, culinary, and educational programs and activities that showcase the richness and diversity of Scandinavian heritage.

3) Financial Management: Manage the festival's budget, monitor expenses, and implement strategies to maximize revenue through corporate sponsorships, ticket sales, grants, and other fundraising initiatives.

4) Community Engagement: Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with stakeholders, including local businesses, cultural organizations, government agencies, volunteers, and the Scandinavian community at large.

5) Marketing and Promotion: Develop and implement marketing campaigns to promote the festival locally around Minot, as well as the state of North Dakota, utilizing various channels such as social media, traditional media, and community outreach.

6) Logistics and Operations: Oversee all logistical aspects of the festival, including venue selection, vendor coordination, permits, transportation, security, and volunteer management, to ensure smooth and successful execution of the event.

7) Team Leadership: Recruit, train, and supervise a team of staff and volunteers, delegating tasks and responsibilities effectively to ensure efficient operation and collaboration.

8) Risk Management: Identify potential risks and develop contingency plans to address emergencies, weather-related issues, or other unforeseen challenges that may arise during the festival.

9) Evaluation and Improvement: Conduct post-event evaluations and analysis to assess the festival's success, gather feedback from participants and stakeholders, and identify areas for improvement for future editions.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree: Preferred emphasis in Event Management, Arts Administration, Business Administration, Cultural Studies, or related field (but not required).

• Experience in event management, festival administration, or cultural programming, with a focus on leadership and strategic planning.

• Strong knowledge and appreciation of Scandinavian culture, traditions, and arts.

• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to engage and inspire diverse audiences.

• Demonstrated experience in budget management, fundraising, and revenue generation.

• Exceptional organizational and multitasking abilities, with keen attention to detail and deadlines.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and event management software.

• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and extended hours during the festival period.