Manager, Live Events & Programming

IN-PERSON - HOUSTON, TX.
Houston First recognizes and appreciates the importance of cultivating an environment that nurtures talent; that is equitable and values different perspectives and backgrounds; and, above all, is respectful to everyone. Our Mission is to create value and enhance economic prosperity by promoting the Houston region.
Houston First Corporation (HFC) is the city’s official destination marketing organization. We are seeking a dynamic Manager, Live Events and Programming to bring unforgettable experiences to life. This role is key to strengthening client relationships while driving the successful execution of event goals. From concept to curtain call, the Manager leads the planning and delivery of live events and programming, ensuring every detail runs seamlessly and every experience leaves a lasting impression.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
- ☒ Supervises: Specialist and contractors during events
- ☒ Maintain staff by recruiting, selecting, orienting, and training and supervising team members.
- ☒ Plan, assign and appraise performance; rewarding and disciplining team members, addressing complaints, and resolving problems.
DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES/ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
- Assists Director, Live Events with planning and executing Avenida, Theater District and other Houston First programmed events.
- Develops programs, event plans and budgets. Leads production and entertainment teams and coordinates participating partner vendors.
Assists George R. Brown Convention Center (GRBCC) and Theater District Events’ team with GRB client events, especially those that cross–over into Avenida Programs – whether they be private client events taking place on the Avenida or open to the public.
Participates on Lynn Wyatt Square for the Performing Arts programming team to further develop live events
Manages Programming budget, specific to entertainment.
Conducts site visits and advance planning meetings as applicable.
Manages all pre-planning, identifying, and communicating event needs and requirements.
Manages vendor contracts and agreements.
Monitors events from move-in, set-up, event performance, breakdown to move-out.t.
Ensures that the event follows all building and City of Houston Fire Codes
Completes and closes all event paperwork and files.
Ensures that all event information is accurate and up to date in the system.
Develops and maintains a collaborative working relationship with other departments, partners, and stakeholders.
Other duties and special projects as needed.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
Bachelor’s Degree or professional designation through IAVM
5 years’ experience as an Event Manager in a convention center, arena, hotel, or similar environment
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
Computer literacy with knowledge of MS Word, Excel, and Momentous (formally Ungerboeck)
Ability to work independently and pro-actively on a variety of events and projects.
Ability to manage changing program elements and prioritize effectively.
Outstanding organizational skills, excellent judgment, and attention to detail
Ability to work cooperatively (grace under pressure) with a variety of internal and external clients.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
- ☒ No major sources of discomfort; normal office environment
- ☒ Routine discomforts from exposure to moderate heat, cold, moisture and unpleasant air conditions may involve routine exposure to soiled materials and chemical substances such as cleaning solutions.
- ☒ Ability to work weekend, evening, and nights on a regular basis
- ☒ Extra hours required occasionally to meet deadlines or work events
- ☒ Ability to travel to local/ tradeshows/conventions/ conferences/ training and development (less than 5% of the year)