Strategic Director, Private Events & Rentals

Harvard University; Cambridge (MA); Hybrid; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous paid time off

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Retirement plans

Wellbeing resources

Tuition assistance and reimbursement

Commuter benefits and campus perks

Job summary

Harvard University’s American Repertory Theater (ART) seeks a Director of Event Sales and Rentals to build a strategic earned income model around private events and hospitality at the new Goel Center. You will partner with artistic, development, production, and marketing teams to maximize occupancy and revenue.

Reporting to the Managing Director, you will lead a small team, develop pricing, manage contracts, coordinate catering and AV, and maintain SOPs.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree related field or equivalent relevant training and experience.
• Minimum of 7 years relevant work experience.
• Supervisory experience.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Word, Outlook and Excel.
• Knowledge of event management software applications.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work with diverse stakeholders.
• Experience in nonprofit events is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop 3-5 year sales goals based on production schedule and space availability.
• Identify ideal client mix and marketing strategies with leadership and boards.
• Negotiate complex contracts for events of varying scale.
• Coordinate staff, catering, AV, and vendor options for events.
• Maintain event calendars, budgets, and client records.
• Lead and train event staff, ensuring high hospitality standards.
• Manage facilities, inventory, and storage for events.
• Ensure rental policies and safety standards are followed.

Skills

Event management

Sales negotiations

Leadership

Staff management

Strong communication

Nonprofit events experience

Education

Bachelor’s Degree related field

Tools

Microsoft Word

Outlook

Excel

Event management software

Job description

Harvard University’s American Repertory Theater (ART) seeks a Director of Event Sales and Rentals to build a strategic earned income model around private events and hospitality at the new Goel Center. You will partner with artistic, development, production, and marketing teams to maximize occupancy and revenue.

Reporting to the Managing Director, you will lead a small team, develop pricing, manage contracts, coordinate catering and AV, and maintain SOPs.