Special Events Manager

About the Role

The Special Events Manager at Stages is responsible for leading the planning and execution of key fundraising and engagement events including the organization's annual Gala, donor cultivation and stewardship activities, opening night receptions, and other special events aligned with fundraising objectives. Reporting to the Development Director, this full-time exempt role collaborates across departments to deliver outstanding event experiences that strengthen relationships with donors, sponsors, board members, and community partners.

About Stages

Stages is a nonprofit performing arts producer based in Houston, founded in 1978. It is the city's sixth largest nonprofit theatre producer and the largest outside downtown, hosting about 10 productions yearly with thousands of attendees. In 2020, Stages opened a new $35.4 million three-theater complex called The Gordy. The organization fosters a welcoming, collaborative culture encouraging initiative and idea sharing.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee planning and execution of the annual Gala, donor cultivation and stewardship events, board functions, sponsor hospitality, and other special activities.
• Develop detailed event plans, timelines, production schedules, and run-of-show documents.
• Lead onsite event execution and conduct post-event reviews.
• Collaborate with Development to align events with fundraising, sponsorship, and donor cultivation goals.
• Manage sponsor fulfillment, donor recognition, auction and fundraising activities.
• Craft exceptional hospitality experiences for donors, sponsors, artists, and stakeholders.
• Handle guest lists, invitations, RSVPs, seating, communications, volunteers, and event committees.
• Coordinate event budgets and financial forecasts with the Development Director, track expenses and revenue.
• Negotiate and administer vendor contracts and service agreements.
• Maintain comprehensive event documentation and ensure compliance with organizational policies.
• Work cross-functionally with Marketing, Production, Operations, and Front of House teams to execute promotional and logistical event elements.
• Perform additional duties as required.

Required Qualifications

• 3 to 5 years of experience in event management, nonprofit fundraising events, hospitality, or related areas.
• Proven ability to plan and manage complex events involving multiple stakeholders.
• Entrepreneurial mindset, able to work independently and in teams.
• Strong skills in project management, organization, and time management.
• Excellent communication abilities, both written and verbal.
• Experience managing budgets and vendor relationships.
• Customer-focused attitude and ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines effectively.
• Flexibility to work variable hours including some evenings and weekends.
• Genuine passion for Stages' mission and eagerness to contribute to a period of growth.

Preferred Attributes

• Comfort and confidence in diverse business and social environments, adept at relationship-building across industries.
• Experience in nonprofit, arts, or cultural organizations.

Compensation and Benefits

Starting salary is $60,000 annually. Benefits include paid time off, paid holidays and celebration days, matched retirement plan, disability and life insurance, health, dental, and vision insurance.

Diversity and Inclusion Statement

Stages is committed to fostering equity, diversity, and inclusion, maintaining a safe creative environment for all staff and artists. The organization values diversity on and off stage and is dedicated to creating an equitable and inclusive workplace, welcoming applicants regardless of race, color, religion, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, veteran status, or any other status.

Application Process

Applicants should submit an introduction describing their fit for the position (cover letter, statement, or video) along with supporting materials such as a resume, event portfolio, writing samples, or website. Qualified candidates will be contacted for an initial interview, followed by further conversations with staff to explore organizational culture and mutual fit.