Public Programs Manager

Position Summary:

The Public Programs Manager oversees the coordination, implementation, and evaluation of creative, mission-based programs both onsite and in the community that connect children and families to museum exhibits, experiences and key themes of STEM, creativity, and literacy. Through community partnerships and public programs, this position will deepen visitor engagement, increase attendance, strengthen community representation, and demonstrate the value of playful learning in the lives of children. This position is responsible for ensuring that the planning and implementation of these programs are in alignment with the organization’s mission, vision, and strategic direction. This position works closely with colleagues to support the development of programs and delivery of playful learning experiences.

Essential Function/Major Responsibilities:

Coordinate program logistics and provide event support for public programs, workshops, festivals, and education programs or events including:

• Prepares and manages appropriate public program budgets; monitors expenses accordingly.
• Developing and managing program budgets
• Scheduling spaces and confirming set-up details
• Making travel arrangements
• Procuring and preparing supplies
• Managing A/V needs and set up
• Producing related correspondence and documents
• Processing payments
• Creating and processing program registrations
• Producing event-related documents (Internal Event Forms, event maps, contracts)
• Works collaboratively to plan and implement programming and events
• Work with Communications Departments to develop content and plans for advertisements, press coverage, web content, and other promotional materials in a timely manner
• Maintain timely and accurate program statistics. Prepare reports as needed
• Collect and administer surveys to track visitor engagement and satisfaction
• Develop clear goals, expectations, and measures for in-person programs that align with overall institutional goals and appeal to a broad general audience and connects with diverse communities at the local and regional levels.
• Available to deliver programming and mentor strong delivery and engagement as necessary.
• As requested, participates in the grant-writing and reporting processes.

Position Requirements:

• Creative thinker that is able to synthesize content into compelling, audience-centered experiences for children ages 1-12, drawing on their interests, and motivations.
• Engage comfortably and consistently with the public with an aptitude to program management
• Highly organized and detail oriented
• Professionally and courteously handle inquiries via telephone and email
• Proven track record of creating mission-driven programming that aligns audience needs with collections and exhibitions
• Experience cultivating a wide range of performing and creative artists for public programs
• Superior written and verbal communication skills, including excellent public speaking abilities
• Proven ability to manage multiple programs for multiple audiences concurrently
• Manages stressful situations calmly, while remaining hospitable
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications.
• Strong written and oral communication skills, effective problem solving, flexibility, and sense of humor
• Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with a variety of individuals.
• Displays an awareness and sensitivity to cultural and other differences when working with representatives of public and private organizations, volunteers, vendors, museum staff and the public.
• Experience working with artists and/or arts organizations is a plus.
• Must be a self-starter, show attention to detail, and possess excellent organizational skills.
• Ability to work accurately and efficiently and keep track of numerous projects simultaneously.
• Willing to work evenings and weekends, on and off site. Scheduling flexibility is a must.
• Committed to welcoming, valuing, and engaging positively with people of all backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences, as well as supporting and promoting an environment that welcomes differences and diversity.
• Well-developed commitment to collaborative leadership and the ability to manage and grow a team’s skills
• Serve as back up Manager on Duty (MOD) for the floor.
• Perform other duties and tasks as assigned

Education and/or Experience:

• 3+ years of experience coordinating public programs for children and families, including: developing activities/performances/programs that meet organizational goals, overseeing contracted staff, managing event support staff, complying with facilities requirements, and collaborating with the marketing department on publicity
• 1-3 years of staff supervisory experience including hiring, performance management, goal setting
• Knowledge and familiarity of museums and museum education practices, particularly interpretation, volunteer management, and evaluation; understanding of teaching techniques, including approaches to formal and informal learning.
• Expertise in arts or arts education, visual literacy, or creativity a plus.

Supervisory Responsibility:

Creative Arts and Tinker Shop Staff/Leads, Public Program Staff, volunteers, interns, and contracted artists as needed.