Development Event Manager

Schedule: Seasonal, contract position; hours vary based on event schedule and production calendar
Season: Performance season (Mid-May to Mid-September)
Location: Pittsfield, MA
Department: Development
Employment Type: Seasonal Contractor
Reports to: Deputy Director of Development

Barrington Stage Company (BSC) is an award-winning professional theatre located in the heart of the Berkshires. Our mission is threefold: to produce compelling, top-quality theatre; to develop new plays and musicals; and to engage our community through vibrant, inclusive education and outreach programs.

BSC is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, or age.

Position Overview

The Development Event Manager is a seasonal, contract position responsible for planning and executing approximately 18–20 donor and cultivation events during the performance season. This role provides professional leadership for development-led events, including pre-show receptions, opening night celebrations, donor receptions, and special gatherings. Working closely with the Development team, the Event Manager oversees event logistics from advance planning through on-site execution, ensuring events are organized, polished, and reflective of Barrington Stage Company’s standards and donor relationships. This role is well suited for an experienced events professional who brings strong organizational skills, and a calm, solutions-oriented presence.

Primary Responsibilities

Event Planning & Execution

• Plan, manage, and execute approximately 18–20 donor and cultivation events.
• Develop and manage event timelines, run-of-event documents, and staffing plans
• Coordinate vendors, rentals, catering, and on-site logistics
• Oversee event set-up, execution, and strike
• Manage event budgets and track expenses 
  
  

Collaboration & Oversight

• Work closely with the Development team to align with fundraising goals
• Direct and support on-site event staff and seasonal assistants during events
• Coordinate with other departments 
  
  

Donor & Guest Experience

• Ensure events provide a welcoming, well-organized experience for donors, sponsors, and guests
• Troubleshoot issues calmly and professionally as they arise during event
  
  

Qualifications

• Minimum 3–5 years of experience in event planning, production, or event management
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple events and deadlines simultaneously
• Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills
• Experience managing vendors, budgets, and event logistics
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
• Professional, calm demeanor in fast-paced, live-event environments
• Experience in nonprofit, arts, or fundraising events is a plus
  
  

Physical & Schedule Requirements

• Availability to work evenings and weekends as required by event schedule
• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds and work on-site during event set-up and strike
  
  

Compensation: Hourly, commensurate with experience, not to exceed $10,000 for the season.