Senior Director of Event Planning
About The Position
Berklee is where creativity meets purpose. With campuses in Boston, New York City, Valencia, and a powerful global presence online, Berklee empowers students to discover who they are and how they can shape the future of music, dance, theater, and beyond. As the leading institution for contemporary arts education, Berklee is fueled by innovation, driven by community, and united by a commitment to artistic excellence. The Senior Director of Event Planning is a key leader in making Berklee’s mission come alive through high-impact experiences that inspire, elevate, and connect. From presidential galas and trustee events to Commencement and global showcases, this role orchestrates the moments that define Berklee’s story—and ensures they’re told with precision, passion, and purpose.
Requirements
- A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in business, arts administration, or related field (or equivalent experience).
- 5+ years of leadership experience in high-level event planning—preferably in higher ed, nonprofits, or cultural institutions.
- A proven track record of producing large-scale events with complex logistics and multiple stakeholders.
- Strategic vision, operational expertise, and a collaborative spirit that thrives across departments and disciplines.
- Experience managing high-profile guests and audiences with professionalism, discretion, and cultural awareness.
- Comfort working nights and weekends as needed during peak times of year (e.g., orientation, Commencement, donor events).
- A deep commitment to equity, creativity, and inclusive excellence in everything you do.
Responsibilities
- Lead the vision, strategy, and execution of Berklee’s most high-profile and mission-driven events, from start to standing ovation.
- Oversee a centralized team that supports a wide range of institutional priorities—including presidential, advancement, donor, academic, and student engagement events.
- Collaborate closely with senior leaders, faculty, artists, and partners to ensure events align with Berklee’s brand, values, and strategic goals.
- Manage event planning from top to bottom: logistics, production, budgets, staffing, communications, and post-event analysis.
- Provide first-class service to internal and external guests—including celebrities, trustees, donors, dignitaries, and families—with discretion and grace.
- Lead and mentor a passionate, high-performing team of event professionals, fostering a culture of creativity, service, inclusion, and operational excellence.
Benefits
- Hybrid work flexibility with four in-office days.
- Generous time off and holidays to recharge.
- Tuition benefits for you and your family.
- Access to unforgettable performances, guest artists, and events.
- A diverse and inclusive community committed to lifelong learning and collaboration.
- comprehensive benefits program to help our employees achieve their personal, professional, and financial goals.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Director
Number of Employees
1,001-5,000 employees
