Director of Events & Operations

Full-Time | Providence, RI Reports to: Executive Director WaterFire Providence is a nationally recognized leader in creative placemaking, dedicated to transforming communities through art and cultural experiences. For nearly 30 years, our nonprofit has brought life to Providence’s waterfront and downtown, fostering connections and community through our iconic installations and programs. The WaterFire Arts Center (WFAC), our first permanent home, enables us to expand our impact, a multi-use space hosting arts and cultural events that enrich the community. Joining our team offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to the growth of a mission-driven organization that thrives on community and relationship-based support. You’ll be part of a passionate group dedicated to using art to make Rhode Island a place where residents are proud to live and work, and visitors love to experience. Position Summary: The Director of Events & Operations is a strategic leader responsible for overseeing the planning, execution, and management of all WaterFire Providence events and operational logistics. This role ensures the seamless coordination of production, events, and volunteer teams to deliver exceptional experiences that embody WaterFire’s mission. The Director collaborates with internal teams, city and state agencies, and community partners to maintain and enhance the organization’s high standards of event production, safety, and community engagement. The ideal candidate is resourceful, detail-oriented, and skilled at problem-solving. They have a strong background in event management and can effectively lead diverse teams. This role requires expertise in logistics, operations, and relationship management to meet WaterFire Providence’s short—and long-term objectives. Employer contribution towards a healthcare package Paid time off Location: WaterFire Providence is located in Providence, Rhode Island. Our lighting events take place in Downtown Providence, and our offices and other programs are located in the WaterFire Arts Center in the Valley neighborhood of Providence. Key Responsibilities: Lead and manage the Production, Events, and Volunteer teams to ensure smooth operations and successful event execution. Oversee the planning and execution of all WaterFire events, ensuring operational excellence and high-quality experiences. Maintain and manage event equipment, river installations, storage areas, and the fleet of trucks and boats. Execute event activations, including torch processions, vendor programs, live entertainment, and sponsor receptions. Develop and maintain interdepartmental event plans, layouts, timelines, and staff communications. Secure and manage permits, licensing, and compliance with safety regulations. Cultivate and maintain relationships with trade vendors, sponsors, city officials, and other key stakeholders to optimize event success and resource allocation. Recruit, train, mentor, and manage seasonal staff, interns, and volunteers, fostering a culture of engagement, recognition, and excellence. Manage budgets, contracts, and in-kind partnerships to optimize event operations and resources. Collaborate with internal teams to deliver sponsor benefits and ensure seamless execution of sponsor activations. Ensure department policies and procedures meet industry standards, increasing efficiency and operational effectiveness. Skills and Qualifications A college degree or proven relevant work experience, or equivalent vocational training, is required. Experience in event management, preferably in large-scale, multi-faceted environments Highly organized and detail-oriented; possess a strong sense of quality control Ability to operate effectively in a team, contributing positively to team operations and working relationships Ability to handle flexible hours (availability on weekdays, weekends, and evenings is required, including all partial and full lighting events) Excellent oral and written communication skills Creativity, drive, enthusiasm, and initiative to carry out projects to conclusion Proficiency in Google Workspace required, experience with project management software and design applications preferred Must be able to lift 50lbs Bilingual (Spanish) candidates are encouraged to apply Compensation Salary – $75,000 – $85,000 Compensation will be for a full-time salaried position, which will be competitive and commensurate with experience. Employee opt-in benefits include health insurance, dental insurance, and retirement savings plans. Paid time off. This is an in-person position with remote work as needed. The job schedule is typically Monday through Friday, adjusted during events/programming, with nights and weekends required. WaterFire Providence is an equal opportunity employer. #J-18808-Ljbffr