Job Description:  Events Manager

About Ashé

Ashé unapologetically celebrates Blackness in New Orleans—the very city rooted in and founded on Black Culture—using art and culture to support human, community, and economic development. Producing over 350 music, theater, dance, spoken word, drum circles, and multi-disciplinary events a year, Ashé believes in art as a paradigm-shifting call to action. As ecosystem builders, we deliver programming and direct services that support, leverage, and celebrate the people, places, and philosophies of the African Diaspora.

But we don’t stop at art. For example, the “I Deserve It!” community health worker project, addresses the 25-year difference in life expectancy between New Orleans’ Black and white residents. The Community Investment Fund project allows low-income residents to partner with Ashé in building a Black-owned boutique hotel. Ashé maintains a high-value, high-profile real estate portfolio in Central City, a neighborhood where historic residents are being aggressively displaced.  

Location: New Orleans, La – In Office

Position Type: Full-Time

Position Summary

Ashé maintains 10,000 square feet of gallery space and 20,000 square feet of performance space to create and preserve opportunities for the curation, exhibition, and commission of fine, folk, and fine-folk art. Our events at Ashé Cultural Arts are a vital tool in celebrating and communicating not only what we do but “why” we do it. The Events Manager position is key to our success and requires a highly organized, creative, detail oriented and motivated person to serve as lead for event and production planning, revenue generation and management. Events include fundraising galas, art exhibitions, retreats, conferences, festivals, concerts, and other community gatherings.

The overall role of the Events Manager is to ensure events are successful and cost-effective, paying attention to budget, time, and labor constraints. This position is accountable for the planning and execution of events, ensuring they run smoothly, are under budget, and meet client expectations. The Events Manager should have a passion for special event management, provide outstanding customer service, have stellar communication skills, and be an enthusiastic professional. 

Reports to: Chief Operations Officer (COO)

Key Responsibilities: 

Event Planning & Administration 

Create and manage event work plans including timelines, program and task lists for Ashé produced events 

Coordinate logistics such as venue preparation, special layouts, seating arrangements for events 

Manage on-site production and clean-up for events.

Coordinate audiovisual equipment rentals & facilities integration 

Manage organizational events calendars

Track event revenue and expenses including check requests, invoicing, and reporting as necessary

Assist COO with preparing budgets and provide progress reports to the Executive Team.

Manage and route venue rental Requests and bookings

Oversee the proper cleaning and storage of event materials and supplies

Vendor Management and Procurement

Develop and manage event budgets.

Manage food and beverage, equipment, decoration and other supply procurement and inventory

Negotiate with vendors and suppliers to ensure cost-effective services.

Prepare and modify event contracts per negotiated and standard terms

Procure catering, waitstaff, security and other event related services per signed rental contracts

Community Connection

Engage with the local community to promote events and foster partnerships.

Ensure that events are accessible and inclusive, reflecting the diverse cultural fabric of New Orleans.

Coordinate and Schedule walk-throughs and site visits 

Communicate clearly Ashé venue rental rules and expectations with clients and partners

Share key details timely with Marketing team to inform promotional material and collateral production

Manage client relations and outreach

Staff and Volunteer Management

Lead events team

Recruit and manage event volunteers

Provide Managerial oversight and on-site leadership for staff and volunteers working events

Develop, communicate, and manage work plans

Prepare monthly reports on events schedules, venue usage per budget  

Coordinate with different departments within the center to ensure smooth event execution.

Skills and Qualifications:

A passion for the arts and a commitment to community engagement.

Strong organizational and project management skills.

Strong leadership abilities and team-orientation

Creative problem-solving abilities and adaptability in a dynamic environment.

A self-starter, self-motivated, and innovative problem solver.

Strong engagement with diverse audiences and communities.

Strong negotiation skills

Ability to effectively communicate both verbally and in writing.

Must possess exceptional customer service skills.

Adept at understanding and communicating client needs 

Knowledge of the cultural dynamics and history of New Orleans.

Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, as needed.

Education and Training:

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

Minimum of 3 years of experience in event planning, preferably in a cultural or artistic setting.

Experience with project and event management software a plus.

Proficiency in Microsoft and Google Suites a plus

Benefits:

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.

• Professional development opportunities.

• A supportive, mission-driven, and family-friendly work environment.

Application Instructions:

Interested candidates are invited to submit their resume and a cover letter detailing

their qualifications and interest in the Events Manager position at Efforts of Grace, Inc. Please email your application to patricia@ashenola.org

Efforts of Grace, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences to join our diverse and inclusive team.

Application Deadline: December 15, 2023

Thank you for considering a career with Efforts of Grace, Inc. We appreciate all applicants; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.