The Fair and Festival Director is a full-time, year-round position based at the Salem Art Association and reporting directly to the SAA Executive Director. The Fair and Festival Director will be primarily responsible for planning the Salem Art Fair & Festival and, in partnership with the Salem Multicultural Institute, the World Beat Festival. These two events are Salem’s largest cultural events and year-round planning will consume approximately 70% of the Director’s time; the remaining 30% will be dedicated to planning and organizing 4-6 smaller fundraising and programmatic events that take place throughout the year.
Specific details include:
Fair and Festival Planning and Management
● Organize, market, and implement the Salem Art Fair & Festival and, in partnership with the Salem Multicultural Institute, the World Beat Festival
● Supervise the team of employees, volunteers and contractors involved in each major event.
● Ensure that all deadlines are met.
● Recruit vendors, exhibitors and performers for the events.
● Coordinate assignments for all event vendors, including booth layout and all other functions and activities related to the effective operation of the events.
Maintain financial discipline
● Because these events serve as fundraisers for the organization, strict adherence to budget is essential.
● Maintain accurate records for all event-related revenue and expenses, including time sheets for all personnel involved.
Organize Smaller Events Throughout the Year
● In addition to planning the two major events (i.e., Art Fair and World Beat), work to organize and implement smaller recruitment and fundraising events such as the Summer Arts Celebration and Fundraiser, the Holiday Night Market Fundraiser,
● Volunteer Appreciation Night, Monthly Gallery Opening, Spring Gala, and the annual Public Meet and Greet.
Volunteer Coordination
● Work with a team of Volunteer Coordinators to maintain and strengthen existing volunteer leadership positions.
● Recruit, schedule, and oversee between 300 and 400 volunteers for each event.
Public Relations and Marketing
● Participate in public relations and marketing activities to publicize and stimulate interest in the events.
● Attend event-related meetings with civic groups, businesses, and other community organizations.
Oversee Process for Permit Applications
● Working with City staff, the Director will draft and submit all required permit applications at least 6-9 months prior to the start of the event.
Submit Annual Reports to Executive Director and Board
● Within one month of each major event, the Director must complete and submit a full written report outlining attendance numbers, artist and performer participation, vendor and volunteer participation, and final budget.
Qualifications:
● Proven experience in event management and coordination.
● Strong leadership and team supervision skills.
● Excellent organizational and record-keeping abilities.
● Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
● Proficiency in public relations and marketing strategies.
● Familiarity with Willamette Valley arts and culture, or ability to learn a new environment quickly.
● Evenings and weekends required during festival dates.
● Bilingual abilities preferred.
Benefits:
● Paid Vacation, Sick Leave, and Personal Leave total $5,400 annually.
● Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Benefits totaling $6,026 annually.
● Total Annual Compensation of $63,426
To Apply: Please submit cover letter and resume.
Join us and play a key role in bringing exciting and engaging events to life, fostering community spirit, and celebrating local art and culture.
