Full-time Assistant Director, Special Events

Description

Come work with us at Houston Ballet!  Picture yourself at an amazing organization committed to inspiring a lasting love and appreciation for dance through artistic excellence, exhilarating performances, innovative choreography, and superb educational programs. At Houston Ballet, you’ll be surrounded by creative teams who challenge you, support you, inspire you, and celebrate artistic achievement. 

Visit: www.houstonballet.org for more information.

* * * For full consideration, please be sure to combine your resume and cover letter into one document to upload when you apply. 

*Please note: This position requires work outside normal business hours

Summary: The Assistant Director of Special Events position is responsible for multiple projects and managing all aspects of Houston Ballet special events including planning, implementation and execution. The position requires an organized, self-motivated and proactive individual that has excellent interpersonal communication skills and attention to detail.

Duties:

• Work closely with the Senior Director, Special Events and other directors within the development department to formulate the special events fundraising strategy and efforts for Houston Ballet
• Manage all aspects of Houston Ballet special events (signature and supporting events) including: Onstage Dinner, Nutcracker Market Preview Party, Snow Queen’s Fashion Show and Luncheon, Sugar Plum’s Fashion Show and Luncheon, Ballet Ball and Raising the Barre including planning, implementation, and execution
• Provide leadership and direction in the planning and execution of additional high-quality events and functions including Market and Ball Kickoff Events and Ball silent auction fulfillment events and/or experiences
• Develop strategy for cultivation and stewardship of special events donors and Event Chairmen
• Oversee Ballet Ball Committee, support the volunteer leaders and their meetings and functions
• Prepare, manage and monitor budgets for each fundraising event and for the special events area of development
• Provide oversight with special events solicitations and mailings, event communications and materials, reservations, seating, ticketing and event logistics as assigned
• Attend events and provide performance support as needed potentially outside of standard business hours
• Dates required for availability outside of standard business hours. Immediate dates required include – Friday, September 5, 2025 and Saturday, September 6, 2025; Wednesday, November 12 through Sunday, November 16, 2025. Other required event and performance dates in 2026 and beyond
• Manage a personal portfolio of prospects and donors (exact number to be determined) 
• Effectively manage Special Events Coordinator and provide oversight of event calendars, communications, financial tracking and gift acknowledgement process for event related revenue and expenses
• Operate as an integral member of the Development Department team
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications:

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor’s Degree required
• Minimum three years development/fundraising and event planning experience
• Ability to proactively manage multiple tasks, prioritize work and be able to meet tight deadlines
• Ability to create fundraising strategies and manage budget and sales tracking
• Demonstrated ability to work in a fast-paced environment
• Detail oriented
• A respect for confidentiality
• Ability to collaborate, take initiative and make effective decisions
• Strong verbal, written, interpersonal communication, presentation and problem-solving skills
• Solid writing, proofreading, editing and presentation ability
• Experience with Windows based applications including knowledge of database, Internet, spreadsheet, and Microsoft Office

Computer Skills:

• Proficient personal computer skills including email, record keeping, routine database activity and processing systems, word processing, spreadsheet, graphics, etc.
• Knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite preferred, and the full Microsoft Office Suite required
• Tessitura experience a significant plus

Competencies:

• Organization/Planning Develops clearly defined, realistic, measurable objectives that are consistent with the company’s objectives. Organizes personal workload and sets priorities; Uses time efficiently. Meets deadlines consistently.
• Job Knowledge Possesses the skills, knowledge and expertise required to perform the essential aspects of the job as well as any other specific educational and/or certification requirements
• Communication Communicates effectively in writing and verbally; expresses complex ideas in simple terms. Clearly and concisely expresses ideas in individual or group situations. Comprehends and processes information and responds to communication form others. Communicates, empathizes, uses diplomacy, influences, and gains cooperation. Interacts effectively across functions and levels of the company.
• Flexibility/Adaptability Admits and corrects mistakes; ensures the integrity of work. Accepts constructive criticism or responsibility for outcomes. Effectively responds to change. Adjusts to and accepts changes in direction and priorities. Sees changes in the business or work environment, understands implications and adjusts priorities as needed on short notice.

Physical Demands:

• Exerting up to 25 pounds of force occasionally to lift, carry, pull, or otherwise move objects. 

Work Environment:

• Well-lighted, heated and/or air-conditioned indoor office setting with adequate ventilation
• Full Time, in-person position - occasional weekends and work time outside the normal business hours

Benefits:

Houston Ballet presents an enticing benefits package for eligible full-time employees, including:

• Healthcare Benefits:  We've got your back (and your teeth and your eyes)!  Embrace our comprehensive coverage for medical, dental, and vision care.  Choose from plans with low-cost or zero monthly premiums, complemented by provisions for paid life and AD&D insurance, and versatile spending accounts.
• Retirement Plan: Secure your future through our 403(b) plan, bolstered by a substantial 5% annual contribution from Houston Ballet, empowering you to save and thrive.
• Paid Time Off:  Embrace a healthy work-life balance with 3 weeks of paid vacation, 10 paid sick days, and 10 paid holidays.  Paid parental leave is also available to support your personal milestones.
• Professional Development: Fuel your career ambition with access to online training and professional growth resources specific to arts management, empowering you to advance your career on your terms.
• Discounts and Perks: Immerse yourself in the vibrant Houston performing arts scene with discounted and complimentary tickets to captivating ballet performances and other Houston theater district venues. Enjoy exclusive partnerships with local businesses and eateries for unforgettable experiences.
• Wellness Programs: Prioritize your well-being with access to our on-site gym and counseling services through our employee assistance plan, providing comprehensive support for your physical and mental wellness.
• Flexible Scheduling:  Acknowledging the evolving nature of work preferences, certain positions offer flexible work hours and remote work options.

Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Access Statement:

Houston Ballet is dedicated to creating meaningful change by cultivating a space that honors what is unique in all of us. Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Access (IDEA) are instrumental in the fulfillment of our mission and values. We recognize our responsibility to be an inclusive and open organization for students, artists, staff, trustees, and volunteers of all backgrounds.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.  We provide equal employment opportunities to all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

Join us, together we are Houston Ballet.

Core Values:

Houston Ballets shared values are essential to our success as a world-class ballet company and academy. These values guide our decisions and behaviors and shape our culture.

• EXCELLENCE: We are passionate about results. Our programs are recognized and awarded for excellence. We are committed to delivering quality programs at the highest standard. Work in all departments matches the caliber of the programming on stage.
• ENGAGED: We are proud to be a part of a company that produces art and trains artists. We attend performances and are tremendous advocates for the education and community engagement programs we offer. We are all in and well-versed in the mission of Houston Ballet.
• DRIVEN: We are driven to take goals and run with them. We are excited to deliver results beyond expectations. We are accountable for our actions and work. We reinvent Standard Operations Procedures, leaving our jobs better than we found them. Much of our work product becomes the standard for individuals who will fill our roles in the years to come.
• COLLABORATIVE: We unite around Houston Ballets mission and support each other in reaching goals. We share information widely and generously and treat our team members, customers, and patrons with respect and sensitivity. We embrace inclusion, diversity, equity, and access. We recognize our responsibility to be an open, welcoming, and anti-racist organization where students, artists, staff, trustees, and volunteers of all backgrounds collaboratively learn, work and serve. We nurture the growth and understanding of how each of us fits into the larger picture and we celebrate organizational achievements.
• PATRON-CENTERED: Our patrons (subscribers/supporters/donors/stakeholders) are at the center of all we do and are at the top of our minds in our decisions and actions. Our patrons are delighted by the excellent customer service they receive at every interaction at Houston Ballet.

Qualifications