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Director of Special Events and Space Rentals

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Role and Function

The New York Hall of Science (NYSCI) is seeking a highly-motivated and experienced Director of Special Events and Space Rentals to join our dynamic Business Development team. Your primary goal will be to maximize revenue by attracting a diverse range of clients to host events at NYSCI, and to ensure exceptional service throughout the rental process. You will work closely with clients, vendors, and internal NYSCI teams to ensure successful event execution and client satisfaction. This position will report directly to the Chief Marketing and Business Development Officer (CMBDO).

Responsibilities

1. Strategy and Business Development:

  • Develop and implement a comprehensive events and space rentals strategy to attract a diverse client base and increase revenue.
  • Identify and target potential clients, including corporate organizations, non-profit groups, community organizations, and private individuals.
  • Conduct market research and stay updated on industry trends to identify new opportunities for growth.
  • Build and maintain relationships with existing and potential clients through effective communication and networking.

2. Client Management:

  • Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, providing exceptional customer service throughout the rental process.
  • Understand client needs and objectives, and collaborate with them to create customized event plans.
  • Conduct site visits and meetings with clients to showcase event spaces, discuss logistics, and address any concerns.
  • Negotiate rental agreements, pricing, and terms, ensuring a win-win situation for both NYSCI and the client.

3. Event Coordination and Execution:

  • Collaborate with internal teams, such as visitor experience, operations, facilities, and security, to ensure smooth event planning and execution.
  • Coordinate event logistics, including space setup, audiovisual requirements, and equipment rentals, to meet client expectations.
  • Develop and maintain event planning resources, such as floor plans, event timelines, and vendor lists, to facilitate seamless operations.
  • Oversee on-site event management, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring client satisfaction.

4. Marketing and Promotion:

  • Develop and implement marketing strategies to promote event spaces, including online and offline channels.
  • Create compelling marketing collateral, such as brochures, websites, and social media content, to showcase and sell the use of NYSCI’s iconic indoor and outdoor spaces
  • Collaborate with the marketing team to leverage digital marketing tools, such as search and social media advertising, to attract potential clients.
  • Represent NYSCI at select industry trade shows, conferences, and networking events to promote NYSCI’s spaces and establish business connections

5. Financial Management:

  • Together with the CMBDO and the finance team, develop and manage the Special Events and Space Rentals budget, including establishing and hitting revenue targets, controlling expenses, and ensuring profitability.
  • Monitor and analyze financial performance, prepare regular reports, and make data-driven recommendations for improvement.
  • Collaborate with the finance team to ensure accurate and timely invoicing, payment processing, and financial reconciliations.
Qualifications and Role Requirements
  • Bachelor’s degree is required; a degree or certification in hospitality management, event management, business administration, or a related field is a plus.
  • 5+ years of experience in event management, venue management, or a related role, with a focus on sales, business development and client management.
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse clients and stakeholders, as well as internal teams
  • Proficiency with G-Suite, MS-Office, and video conferencing tools; CRM software understanding is a plus
  • Strong financial acumen and experience in budgeting and financial management.
  • Must be present for most events, which may require work on weekends and evenings.
  • Must be fluent in English; conversational Spanish and/or Mandarin Chinese is a plus.

The Director of Special Events and Space Rentals will play a pivotal role in building NYSCI’s reputation as a premier event destination and driving revenue growth through exceptional event experiences. This position offers an exciting opportunity for a motivated professional to contribute to the success of a renowned institution while showcasing NYSCI’s iconic spaces and grounds.

BENEFITS

NYSCI strives to be an inclusive and equitable place to work. We work to foster diverse voices and perspectives, empower staff as problem solvers, and support professional growth for all. The New York Hall of Science also offers generous benefits and perks for all regular full-time employees. These include:

  • Health, dental and vision insurance options
  • Flexible spending accounts for healthcare, dependent care and commuter benefits
  • Pension plan and 401k plan
  • Free life insurance coverage
  • Paid vacation and sick leave
  • 13 paid holidays off
  • Flexible work schedules
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Free onsite parking
  • Professional development growth opportunities
  • A collaborative, professional and supportive environment within the Institutional Advancement team
  • Colleagues who are passionate about the different ways we provide engaging science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) learning experiences and the communities we serve
  • The chance to see first-hand the work you are supporting by walking the floor of the museum and being inspired by the exploration and wonder of science experienced by our young visitors and their families!
How to Apply

Please send cover letter and resume to jobs@nysci.org. Resumes without a cover letter will not be accepted. Please include job title in subject line. No phone calls.

The New York Hall of Science is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering an inclusive and innovative environment with the best employees. We provide employment opportunities without regard to age, race, color, ancestry, national origin, religion, disability, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, military service, marital status or any other protected status in accordance with applicable law. We support a drug-free workplace. If there are preparations we can make to help ensure you have a comfortable and positive interview experience, please let us know.

Organizational Background

NYSCI is New York City's science center, a place where everyone is invited to explore how science and engineering shape our world, and how we can use scientific tools and ideas to answer questions and solve problems. Visitors pose questions, design solutions, explore phenomena, and work together to make amazing things happen.

Located in Queens, one of the most diverse counties in the U.S., NYSCI welcomes 400,000 visitors annually, including families, students on field trips, and camp and after school groups. NYSCI also works with thousands of teachers each year to make classroom science more relevant, exciting and meaningful to students, and conducts innovative research about how science learning happens through everyday experience.

Our exhibitions, programs, and products are informed by strategies of engagement called Design, Make, Play. The defining characteristics of Design Make Play — open-ended exploration, imaginative learning, personal relevance, deep engagement and delight — are the ingredients that inspire passionate STEM learners.

Compensation

Commensurate with education, skills and experience; salary range is $75,000 to $85,000 per annum.