Assistant Manager, Special Events

About The Kennedy Center

“I am certain that after the dust of centuries has passed over our cities, we, too, will be remembered not for victories or defeats in battle or in politics, but for our contribution to the human spirit.” – President John F. Kennedy

The Kennedy Center is the nation’s cultural center and living memorial to President John F. Kennedy. Located on the banks of the Potomac River in Washington, D.C., the Center presents performances across all genres, and is also home to artistic affiliates Washington National Opera and National Symphony Orchestra. 

At the Kennedy Center, we strive to foster belonging and empowerment at work. We are able to advance our mission because of our committed and passionate employees. We are fortunate to be able to leverage their diverse perspectives, life experiences and skills to inform how our workplace can be a safe, transparent, and replenishing community. The Kennedy Center is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant based on race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy or related condition, or any other basis protected by law. 

Mission Statement: As the nation's performing arts center, and a living memorial to President John F. Kennedy, we are a leader for the arts across America and around the world, reaching and connecting with artists, inspiring and educating communities. We welcome all to create, experience, learn about, and engage with the arts. 

Why Join Us

We offer a comprehensive range of benefits to all full-time employees including: 

• Staff offers for discount tickets
• Retirement plan with organization matching (after 1 year of employment)
• Qualifying employer for the Public Student Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF)
• Commuter programs including pre-tax options for discounted parking and SmartBenefits (WMATA)
• Annual Leave, Sick Leave, and Personal Days available immediately upon hire
• 11 paid holidays per year 
• Medical, Dental, and Vision benefits with FSA and HSA options, and paid FMLA
• Flexible work arrangements
• We like to have fun! Check out the Kennedy Center National Dance Day 2023 staff video!

Job Description

The Development Office at the Kennedy Center is a vibrant, dynamic, and creative group of over 50 professionals responsible for finding new, creative, sustainable, and efficient ways to meet or exceed the institution’s over $70M annual contributed income goal.  These funds support the organization’s extraordinary programming—world class performances on our many stages at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.; local, regional, and national education programs reaching students, teachers, families, and budding artists; and community-driven social impact programming that upholds the legacy of President Kennedy in our role as his presidential memorial. 

The Special Events team directs and manages all development events, including fundraising and benefit-fulfillment events for the Kennedy Center, National Symphony Orchestra, and the Washington National Opera.

Manage all facets of the event process including planning and implementation timelines for small to large events (10-500+ guests). The Assistant Manager must be able to exercise discretion in order to prioritize assignments and work under significant pressure, as many projects are time sensitive, involving concurrent deadlines, and have a direct impact on the donor base of the Kennedy Center.

This highly collaborative individual is able to prioritize assignments and work under significant pressure. This person must have the ability to multi-task, independently plan and organize activities to prioritize daily workloads and projects, and meet deadlines. Unfailing attention to detail is critical. Sensitivity to potential difficult situations, ability to communicate and problem solve with a positive attitude is extremely important. Willingness to develop and implement new methods for improving effectiveness and efficiency in the event planning and logistics process is extremely important.

Key Responsibilities

Event Management

• Manage all facets of the event process including planning and implementation timelines for small to large events (10-500+ guests)
• Work collaboratively with key stakeholders for events to identify format, inventory and capacity, and location, to create design concept, and to manage the overall guest experience
• Work with internal and external vendors to create innovative event concepts, inspired menus, and unique designs aligning with industry trends.
• Manage all event logistics and pre-event walkthroughs, including coordination of load in/out, production set up, deliveries, vendor time management, security, facilities, and parking.
• Provide clear communication and guidance to the Development team on event timelines, details, and guest experience, including registration and RSVP process, and performance and dinner seating.
• Work collaboratively with Artistic Programming teams to coordinate VIP guest movement and full run of show.

Relationship Management

• Serve as liaison for event hotel partners, managing room blocks and coordinating on-site activity, as necessary. Collaborating with Development and Programming to ensure all VIP and guest needs are accommodated.
• Serve as liaison for event photography and entertainment, such as bands, DJs, musicians, comedians, and other performers who are part of the pre- and post-event celebrations, receptions, and dinners.

Budgeting

• Ensure all event expenses are recorded, paid, and remain within budget guidelines
• Collaborate on post-event financial reconciliation

Teamwork

• Work collaboratively with the Special Events team to maintain a healthy, professional and vibrant working relationship within the office and across the institution. Support new ideas and creative development of events under supervision of the Director or Special Events

Additional

·         Other duties as assigned.

Key Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years’ experience in event management. The position requires a full appreciation and understanding of event planning and logistics as it applies to matters of food and beverage services, production services and other vendor negotiations that are in line with Kennedy Center standards.
• College degree or applicable professional experience.
• Excellent project management skills
• Work independently and in a collaborative team environment with ease.
• Proficiency in database management, Microsoft Office Suite, and other computer skills, as required.  Experience with Tessitura strongly preferred.
• Have flexibility for extended hours, including nights and weekends.
• Investment in the Kennedy Center’s mission. Interest in arts, culture, and arts education is ideal.
• Experience navigating large, complex organizations, and collaborating across teams to achieve shared goals.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Exceptional project management skills.
• Professional, resourceful, collaborative, and organized worker. Ability to work independently and as a team player, to take initiative and prioritize multiple projects.
• Willingness and ability to regularly participate in evening and weekend events.
• Candidate must be local or willing to relocate to the DMV area.