Overview
The Cleveland Orchestra is seeking an Event Services Manager who will be responsible for the successful planning, coordination, and execution of rental and SMC Presents events at Severance Music Center (SMC) and Blossom Music Center. This role serves as the primary liaison between clients, vendors, and internal departments following the completion of the sales process. The Event Services Manager translates client needs into detailed operational plans, oversees all logistical elements, and ensures events are delivered smoothly, safely, and in alignment with organizational standards. The Event Services Manager supports client satisfaction and operational efficiency by managing cross-department communication, resolving issues in real time, and maintaining consistent service quality throughout the event lifecycle.
Responsibilities
* Event Execution & Operational Planning
o Coordinate all logistical elements for rental and SMC Presents events, including room setups, audiovisual and stage needs, catering, staffing, security, and vendor services to ensure seamless delivery.
o Develop detailed operational documents including Details Sheets, run-of-show timelines, floor plans, and stage plots to translate client requirements into executable plans.
o Oversee event setup and breakdown, ensuring compliance with safety, accessibility, and venue standards.
* Client & Vendor Coordination
o Serve as the primary point of contact for rental and SMC Presents clients following the completion of the sales process, providing guidance, communication, and execution oversight.
o Coordinate directly with artists, agents, tour managers, caterers, security providers, SEIU staff, stagehands, FOH teams, and other internal departments to confirm technical, hospitality, and service requirements.
o Conduct pre-event meetings, walkthroughs, and post-event evaluations to ensure alignment and continuous improvement.
* Technical Advancement & Production Support
o Advance all technical and logistical elements of SMC Presents events, confirming production requirements and coordinating stage crew, backstage operations, runners, catering, and security per event specifications.
* Systems, Documentation & Process Improvement
o Maintain accurate event records, documentation, and operational details within ArtsVision and SharePoint to ensure system integrity and cross-department visibility.
o Coordinate parking and transportation logistics with Lot 29 and Case Western Reserve University, including development and distribution of weekly and monthly parking calendars and facilitation of planning meetings.
o Participate in refining operational procedures by identifying gaps and recommending improvements based on client feedback and event performance.
* On-Site Authority & Issue Resolution
o Serve as Back-of-House Event Manager and/or Front-of-House Manager on Duty as scheduled, providing operational direction to event personnel.
o Exercise independent judgment during events to address last-minute requests, logistical challenges, and service issues while maintaining safety and policy standards.
o Represent the organization professionally during events, ensuring strong stakeholder relationships and a consistent guest experience.
Qualifications
* Bachelor’s degree in business, hospitality management, arts administration, event management, or a related discipline required.
* Three to five years of experience in performing arts, live event management, venue operations, or special event coordination required.
* Demonstrated experience advancing technical and logistical event elements, including production coordination, staffing alignment, and vendor management.
* Strong operational planning skills with ability to develop detailed event documents such as timelines, run-of-show schedules, floor plans, and stage plots.
* Demonstrated ability to work independently with minimal supervision and exercise sound judgment in high-pressure, real-time event environments.
* Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills with ability to represent the organization professionally to clients, vendors, and internal stakeholders.
* Proficiency with event management systems such as ArtsVision, SharePoint, and standard office software applications.
* Ability to obtain and maintain First Aid, CPR, and AED certification and respond calmly in emergency situations.
* Ability to work evenings, weekends, and occasional holidays as required by event schedules.
Benefits
We offer a competitive salary ($56,000 - $62,000), excellent medical and dental plan benefits, generous paid time off, 403(b) plan with employer match, complimentary concert tickets, and the opportunity to work in two of the best music venues in the country.
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