Full-time Assistant Director, Nutcracker Market (Event, Trade Show)

Houston Ballet • Houston, TX

7d • Onsite

About The Position

The Houston Ballet Nutcracker Market is one of the largest and most iconic holiday shopping events in the nation, welcoming more than 100,000 attendees annually and supporting Houston Ballet Foundation’s mission through critical fundraising. Its success relies on exceptional logistics, vendor coordination, operations management, and guest-experience execution. We are seeking an Assistant Director, Nutcracker Market who will also serve as our Master Logistics & Event Manager, leading two large-scale event operations, the annual November Nutcracker Market and the Spring Nutcracker Market. Both events strive for precision, creativity, and excellence. This is an in-person position in Houston, Texas This role is responsible for the full operational planning, logistics strategy, vendor and merchant management, and on-site execution of both Markets. The ideal candidate is organized, highly detailed, solutions-focused, technologically savvy, and thrives in a fast-paced, high-volume environment. This position operates within Houston Ballet’s Development Department and plays a key role in supporting major fundraising events. Work on evenings and weekends is required.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in project management or a related field, OR a minimum of 5+ years of relevant experience in event operations, logistics, trade shows, large-scale events, or similar environments.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multi-day, high-traffic event logistics with complex vendor and merchant needs.
• Intermediate to advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Exceptional verbal, written, and presentation skills.
• Strong proofreading and editing skills.
• Ability to work extended hours during peak seasons (primarily September–November and during Spring Market).
• Ability to perform hands-on event work, including walking the event floor and overseeing setup operations.

Nice To Haves

• Intermediate to advanced experience with Adobe Suite is a significant plus.
• Intermediate proficiency in Tessitura is a significant advantage.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement the full operational and logistical strategy for both Markets.
• Create, manage, and execute detailed event timelines, run-of-show documents, and contingency plans.
• Lead all aspects of load-in/load-out operations, facility logistics, floor plan layouts, safety compliance, and contractor coordination.
• Collaborate closely with NRG Park staff, security, decorators, electricians, transportation teams, and other service providers.
• Ensure all ADA requirements, safety regulations, permitting, and fire marshal guidelines are met.
• Serve as the primary contact for merchants from application through event completion.
• Track, organize, and manage merchant information, compliance, booth assignments, and communication.
• Oversee the Merchant Chairmen, Merchant Review Committee, and all merchant approval and fulfillment processes.
• Manage relationships, reporting protocols, and procedures related to Merchant Reporting.
• Provide on-site support and troubleshooting for merchants throughout the Markets.
• Manage two Market Managers and a part-time Associate, providing oversight, mentorship, and delegation.
• Collaborate with Communications, Development, and Special Events teams to support operational and promotional needs.
• Coordinate and train temporary staff, volunteers, and on-site teams as needed during the Markets.
• Operate as a key member of the Development Department, participating in meetings, planning, and cross-departmental initiatives.
• Support front-of-house operations including ticketing flow, signage placement, visitor experience, and crowd movement.
• Provide timely solutions to operational issues and ensure a seamless guest experience.
• Attend assigned Houston Ballet events and performances, including the full run of both Markets.
• Assist with budgeting for operations, vendor contracts, invoicing, and cost monitoring.
• Maintain operational documentation, merchant databases, and event inventory.
• Prepare reports, materials, and correspondence with exceptional accuracy.
• Perform additional responsibilities as assigned to support the success of the Markets and the Development Department.

Benefits

• Healthcare Benefits: We've got your back (and your teeth and your eyes)! Embrace our comprehensive coverage for medical, dental, and vision care. Choose from plans with low-cost or zero monthly premiums, complemented by provisions for paid life and AD&D insurance, and versatile spending accounts.
• Retirement Plan: Secure your future through our 403(b) plan, bolstered by a substantial 5% annual contribution from Houston Ballet, empowering you to save and thrive.
• Paid Time Off: Embrace a healthy work-life balance with 3 weeks of paid vacation, 10 paid sick days, and 10 paid holidays. Paid parental leave is also available to support your personal milestones.
• Professional Development: Fuel your career ambition with access to online training and professional growth resources specific to arts management, empowering you to advance your career on your terms.
• Discounts and Perks: Immerse yourself in the vibrant Houston performing arts scene with discounted and complimentary tickets to captivating ballet performances and other Houston theater district venues. Enjoy exclusive partnerships with local businesses and eateries for unforgettable experiences.
• Wellness Programs: Prioritize your well-being with access to our on-site gym and counseling services through our employee assistance plan, providing comprehensive support for your physical and mental wellness.
• Flexible Scheduling: Acknowledging the evolving nature of work preferences, certain positions offer flexible work hours and remote work options.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Number of Employees: 101-250 employees