Full-time Assistant Director, Special Events

Come work with us at Houston Ballet!
Join a leading nonprofit arts organization that’s redefining what ballet can be. We’re committed to inspiring a lasting love of dance through bold performances, new choreography, and nationally recognized education programs.  At Houston Ballet, your creativity meets purpose—and your passion takes center stage.  Whether on stage or behind the scenes, every role here contributes to something bigger.

✨ Your Passion. Our Stage.

Visit: www.houstonballet.org for more information.

* * * For full consideration, please be sure to combine your resume and cover letter into one document to upload when you apply. 

*Please note: This position requires work outside normal business hours

Summary: The Assistant Director of Special Events position is responsible for multiple projects and managing all aspects of Houston Ballet special events including planning, implementation and execution. The position requires an organized, self-motivated and proactive individual that has excellent interpersonal communication skills and attention to detail.

Duties:

• Work closely with the Senior Director, Special Events and other directors within the development department to formulate the special events fundraising strategy and efforts for Houston Ballet
• Manage all aspects of Houston Ballet special events (signature and supporting events) including: Onstage Dinner, Nutcracker Market Preview Party, Snow Queen’s Fashion Show and Luncheon, Sugar Plum’s Fashion Show and Luncheon, Ballet Ball and Raising the Barre including planning, implementation, and execution
• Provide leadership and direction in the planning and execution of additional high-quality events and functions including Market and Ball Kickoff Events and Ball silent auction fulfillment events and/or experiences
• Develop strategy for cultivation and stewardship of special events donors and Event Chairmen
• Oversee Ballet Ball Committee, support the volunteer leaders and their meetings and functions
• Prepare, manage and monitor budgets for each fundraising event and for the special events area of development
• Provide oversight with special events solicitations and mailings, event communications and materials, reservations, seating, ticketing and event logistics as assigned
• Attend events and provide performance support as needed potentially outside of standard business hours
• Dates required for availability outside of standard business hours. Immediate dates required include – Friday, September 5, 2025 and Saturday, September 6, 2025; Wednesday, November 12 through Sunday, November 16, 2025. Other required event and performance dates in 2026 and beyond
• Manage a personal portfolio of prospects and donors (exact number to be determined) 
• Effectively manage Special Events Coordinator and provide oversight of event calendars, communications, financial tracking and gift acknowledgement process for event related revenue and expenses
• Operate as an integral member of the Development Department team
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications:

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor’s Degree required
• Minimum three years development/fundraising and event planning experience
• Ability to proactively manage multiple tasks, prioritize work and be able to meet tight deadlines
• Ability to create fundraising strategies and manage budget and sales tracking
• Demonstrated ability to work in a fast-paced environment