Campus Programs Manager — Live Events & Community

Esplanade Association; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k)

Dental insurance

Free uniforms

Health insurance

Opportunity for advancement

Paid time off

Training & development

Job summary

Esplanade Association in Boston seeks a seasoned Programs Manager to expand year‑round programming across the Charles River Esplanade and the new Charlesbank Campus. Reporting to the Director of Visitor Services, you will shape the visitor experience through development, coordination, and execution of diverse programs that engage residents and visitors.

You will lead planning and delivery of stage performances, concerts, leagues, wellness activities, and community events, partnering with

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in event management or related field.
• 3–5 years of experience in events, community programming, venue operations, stage management, or public-facing programs.
• Experience coordinating performances, athletic events, educational programs, or public events.
• Strong collaboration skills with staff, vendors, volunteers, partners, and the public.
• Commitment to a positive visitor experience.
• Knowledge of event production, stage operations, sound, lighting, RFPs, procurement, sponsorships, and partnerships preferred.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Bilingual or multilingual skills a plus.

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage a robust annual slate of programs across the Charles River Esplanade and the Charlesbank Campus.
• Coordinate performances, concerts, festivals, theatrical productions, and community events utilizing indoor and outdoor spaces.
• Determine and respond to audience interest and capacity for different styles and types of programs.
• Identify opportunities to attract innovative performers and partners.
• Oversee program logistics including scheduling, permits, equipment, registration, safety, and vendor coordination.
• Lead RFP development and evaluation related to programming, entertainment, concessions, and vendor partnerships.
• Serve as liaison between performers, producers, and campus stakeholders.
• Coordinate program site layouts and production requirements with operations staff.
• Develop best practices for use of programmable spaces on the Charlesbank Campus.
• Monitor vendor performance and ensure contractual obligations are met.
• Evaluate program success through attendance, feedback, and revenue goals.
• Reflect on program strengths and propose enhancements.

Skills

Collaboration

Project management

Communication

Stakeholder engagement

Budget management

Event production

RFP & procurement

Sponsorships

Microsoft Office

Vendor networks

Esplanade knowledge

Multilingual skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Event Management, Recreation Management, Arts Administration, or related field

Job description

Esplanade Association in Boston seeks a seasoned Programs Manager to expand year‑round programming across the Charles River Esplanade and the new Charlesbank Campus. Reporting to the Director of Visitor Services, you will shape the visitor experience through development, coordination, and execution of diverse programs that engage residents and visitors.

You will lead planning and delivery of stage performances, concerts, leagues, wellness activities, and community events, partnering with