Manager, Public Programming

National Geographic•Washington, DC

5d•Onsite

About The Position

The National Geographic Society headquarters, based in Washington, D.C., is undergoing a significant renovation project on its campus (called Base Camp). In 2026, we are opening the Museum of Exploration, featuring a state-of-the-art pavilion entrance, auditorium, iconic photo gallery, exhibition space, immersive walk-through attraction, retail, food and beverage, education center, archives, tours, and exciting new event space. The capstone of the renovation is a one-of-a-kind nighttime experience in the courtyard. This position sits within the Campus and Experiences division, and is responsible for creating ticketed and free experiences at the Museum of Exploration that engage local and global audiences, showcase National Geographic Explorers, and highlight the Museum’s exhibitions and collections. In addition to enriching the on-campus guest experience, the division currently manages two other Public Programming business lines: the National Geographic Live touring speaker series, which brings Explorer-led storytelling to performing arts venues worldwide, and the Speakers Bureau, which provides compelling speakers for private engagements around the globe. These programs are designed to advance the Society’s mission by deepening public understanding of science, exploration, and storytelling, while driving sustainable revenue for the organization. The Manager will report to the Director, Museum Programming, focusing on the logistical, operational, and production elements of both free and ticketed events.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree preferred
5+ years of experience in public programming, event management, or performing arts curation with a strong emphasis on developing and delivering programs.
Proven ability to manage complex, multi-stakeholder public events from concept to execution.
A passion for science, exploration, culture, or the arts , with the ability to translate complex topics into engaging experiences for children and families.
Experience working with speakers, artists, or content creators; familiarity with working with nonprofit or mission-based organizations a plus.
Effective written and oral communications skills
Proficiency Nonprofit Cloud, Monday.com, Google Office, Microsoft Office Suite, Keynote and ticketing software is desired
Astute attention to detail
Ability to manage competing priorities and multitask while under tight deadlines
Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate well with all levels
Availability to attend evening and weekend events
Excellent organizational, communication, and cross-functional collaboration skills

Nice To Haves

Background in museum programming, performing arts, or educational events
Experience developing family or educational programs in close collaboration with Educational teams
Experience with revenue-generating public programs and/or grant-funded initiatives
Supervision 1+ direct report

Responsibilities

Program Development & Curation (30%): Develop and advance a year-round slate of public programs for the Museum of Exploration, including but not limited to: lectures, workshops, tours, family days, performances, film screenings, and community festivals while aligning with the Society’s mission and strategic goals. Collaborate with internal teams and National Geographic Explorers to develop compelling program content and themes accessible and inspiring for a variety of audiences. Work closely with the Education division to develop and implement museum education programs
Event Production & Management (40%): Manage the end-to-end advancement of assigned programs, including planning, staffing, logistics, ticketing, and vendor coordination. Maintain and optimize program budgets to ensure cost-effective execution while meeting revenue and impact goals. Ensure a high-quality guest experience through thoughtful program design, considerations specific to audience age, and attention to detail. Coordinate with internal departments (A/V, Facilities, Security, Marketing) to ensure seamless execution of events. Develop marketing materials in collaboration with the Marketing team to support successful event attendance
Strategy, Evaluation & Impact (20%): Develop programs that achieve annual revenue/attendance targets. Track key performance metrics (attendance, revenue, guest feedback, educational outcomes) and use data to iterate and improve on programming. In collaboration with the Director, help to develop and implement departmental processes and best practices Support the scaling of successful programs for touring or virtual formats. Work with the Advancement team to support event sponsorship, including providing, assets and logistics support as needed
Management (10%): Contribute to a strong team culture, focused on creativity, teamwork, innovation, and service of the overall National Geographic mission Manager the work of the Family & Educational Programming Event Specialist, providing guidance, support, and day-to-day supervision to ensure successful planning and delivery of events.

Benefits

medical, dental, and vision insurance
engaging and comprehensive wellness program
401(k) retirement savings plan with matching contributions after 6 months of employment
flexible paid time off benefits with up to 22 days of paid annual leave per calendar year (15 days for new hires in their first year, prorated based on the number of pay periods remaining in the year) and 10 days of sick leave
12 paid holidays and a paid winter break between December 25 and 31 (May not apply to all roles that are required to work during high volume seasons or essential workers. Please check with the hiring manager for confirmation.)
paid parental leave, adoption and surrogacy expense reimbursement, fertility benefits
learning and development opportunities
Lifestyle Spending Account
pet adoption assistance and insurance
pre-tax transportation benefits with a generous employer subsidy
employer-paid life insurance and disability benefit
a variety of National Geographic discounts and perks