Development Event Manager
Schedule: Seasonal, contract position; hours vary based on event schedule and production calendar
Season: Performance season (Mid-May to Mid-September)
Location: Pittsfield, MA
Department: Development
Employment Type: Seasonal Contractor
Reports to: Deputy Director of Development
Housing: Housing is not provided. Candidates are responsible for their own local accommodations and have reliable personal transportation, as public transit options in the Berkshires are limited.
Barrington Stage Company (BSC) is an award-winning professional theatre located in the heart of the Berkshires. Our mission is threefold: to produce compelling, top-quality theatre; to develop new plays and musicals; and to engage our community through vibrant, inclusive education and outreach programs.
Barrington Stage is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment. We strongly encourage candidates of color, and/or from diverse backgrounds/underrepresented groups to apply.
Position Overview
The Development Event Manager is a seasonal, contract position responsible for planning and executing approximately 18–20 donor and cultivation events during the performance season. This role provides professional leadership for development-led events, including pre-show receptions, opening night celebrations, donor receptions, and special gatherings. Working closely with the Development team, the Event Manager oversees event logistics from advance planning through on-site execution, ensuring events are organized, polished, and reflective of Barrington Stage Company’s standards and donor relationships. This role is well suited for an experienced events professional who brings strong organizational skills, and a calm, solutions-oriented presence.
Primary Responsibilities
Event Planning & Execution
- Plan, manage, and execute approximately 18–20 donor and cultivation events.
- Develop and manage event timelines, budgets, run-of-event documents, and staffing plans
- Coordinate vendors, rentals, catering, and on-site logistics
- Oversee event set-up, execution, and strike
- Manage event budgets and track expenses
Collaboration & Oversight
- Work closely with the Development team to align with fundraising goals
- Direct and support on-site event staff and seasonal assistants during events
- Coordinate with other departments
Donor & Guest Experience
- Ensure events provide a welcoming, well-organized experience for donors, sponsors, and guests
- Troubleshoot issues calmly and professionally as they arise during event
Qualifications
- Minimum 3–5 years of experience in event planning, production, or event management
- Demonstrated ability to manage multiple events and deadlines simultaneously
- Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills
- Experience managing vendors, budgets, and event logistics
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
- Professional, calm demeanor in fast-paced, live-event environments
- Experience in nonprofit, arts, or fundraising events is a plus
Physical & Schedule Requirements
- Availability to work evenings and weekends as required by event schedule
- Ability to lift up to 40 pounds and work on-site during event set-up and strike
Compensation: Hourly, commensurate with experience, not to exceed $10,000 for the season.