Manager of Special Events

Department: Development

Position Title: Manager of Special Events

Reports to: Director of Development

Classification: Full-time, Exempt

Salary Range: $80,000 - $85,000

Location: In-person, 3515 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20016

The Manager of Special Events is a key member of The Washington Ballet's Development team, responsible for overseeing a robust $2 million events program. This mid-level management role leads the planning, execution, and evaluation of three signature annual fundraising and cultivation events, as well as a full calendar of supporting events tied to the Company's five season productions. The Manager of Special Events plays a vital role in deepening donor relationships, elevating the Ballet's community presence, and driving contributed revenue.

Responsibilities

Signature Annual Events

Plan, manage, and execute three signature annual events, including:

• 50th Anniversary Celebration - a milestone event honoring the Ballet's history and legacy
• Nutcracker Tea Party - a beloved family cultivation event coinciding with the holiday season production
• Annual Gala - the organization's flagship fundraising event

Production & Supporting Events

Coordinate a calendar of cultivation and engagement events in support of five season productions, including:

• Studio Sessions - intimate behind-the-scenes experiences for donors and prospects
• Lunch and Learns - educational engagement events for supporters
• Special Groups Attending Studio Rehearsals - coordination of group cultivation opportunities
• Theater Hospitality - management of patron lounges, post-performance receptions, and opening night events

Event Management & Operations

• Develop and manage event budgets totaling approximately $2 million, ensuring fiscal responsibility and strong return on investment
• Source, negotiate, and manage vendor contracts including venues, catering, audio/visual, florals, and entertainment
• Create and maintain detailed event timelines, run-of-show documents, and post-event reports
• Oversee event logistics from concept through execution, including day-of coordination and staffing
• Manage event communications including invitations, RSVPs, acknowledgment letters, and follow-up

Donor Engagement & Collaboration

• Partner with the Development team to leverage events as cultivation, stewardship, and fundraising tools
• Work collaboratively with Artistic, Marketing, and Executive staff to align event programming with the Ballet's brand and mission
• Manage event committees and volunteer leadership, providing direction and support
• Maintain accurate donor and guest records in the organization's CRM database
• Actively participate in creating a work culture that embodies the core values of TWB; Creativity, Commitment, Communication, Collaboration, Compassion, and Community.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's degree in nonprofit management, communications, arts administration, or a related field
• Minimum 4–6 years of progressive experience in event management, preferably in a nonprofit or arts environment
• Demonstrated experience managing large-scale events with budgets of $500,000 or more
• Strong project management skills with exceptional attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple deadlines simultaneously
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite; experience with CRM or event management software
• Collaborative team player with the ability to work effectively across departments
• Availability to work evenings and weekends as required by event schedules

Preferred

• Experience in performing arts, ballet, or cultural nonprofit settings
• Familiarity with Tessitura or similar arts-sector CRM platforms
• Experience managing event committees and volunteer leadership
• Passion for dance and the performing arts

Equal Opportunity Statement

The Washington Ballet is dedicated to fostering a welcoming environment in all aspects of its work, from artistic performances and ballet education to community engagement and workplace culture. We prioritize presenting artists and perspectives that reflect the dynamism of DC. Through our community partnerships and campus locations, we intentionally bring opportunities to communities throughout the DMV, ensuring fairness in hiring and employment practices.

Benefits

• Employer-paid Health, Dental and Vision Insurance
• Short Term Disability and Life Insurance fully paid by TWB
• 403b Retirement Plan Option for Employee's Pre-tax & Roth Contributions
• Two weeks annual leave +10 holidays + 2 personal days+ floating holiday
• Six sick days annually
• Free ballet classes
• Access to free or discounted tickets to performances
• Professional development opportunities

Application Instructions

Please submit your resume, cover letter, and three references. We encourage all interested applicants to apply even if they do not feel they meet 100% of the qualifications. We are dedicated to considering a wide array of candidates including those with non-traditional background and experience. Please use your cover letter to elaborate on what you hope to bring to this role and how your prior experience has prepared you for this opportunity.

About The Washington Ballet

Founded more than 80 years ago, The Washington Ballet grew out of the success of The Washington School of Ballet, founded and directed for years by legendary dance pioneer Mary Day. Today, The Washington Ballet's mission is threefold: To bring the joy and artistry of dance to the nation's capital and the world's stage through the professional presentation of the best in classic and contemporary ballet; To provide the highest caliber of dance training through a preeminent school of ballet; and To serve and involve the entire community through extensive dance education and community engagement programs.