Position Title: Manager, Special Events/Rentals
Organization: August Wilson African American Cultural Center (AWAACC)
Located at the gateway to Pittsburgh’s Cultural District, the August Wilson African American Cultural Center (AWAACC) honors the legacy of Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright and Pittsburgh native August Wilson. The Center is a hub for celebrating and reflecting the African Diaspora through world-class performing and visual arts, as well as nurturing the local arts community.
With multiple exhibition galleries, a 492-seat theater, versatile multipurpose spaces, a rehearsal studio, and gathering areas designed by award-winning architect Alison Williams, the Center fosters a rich environment for artistic expression, education, and community engagement.
AWAACC is seeking an enthusiastic and results-driven Manager, Special Events/Rental to lead the planning, coordination, and execution of rental events. This position requires meticulous attention to detail, creative vision, and strong organizational skills to ensure the success of events while adhering to budgets and timelines. The candidate will report to the Director of Special Events and Sales. This position requires that the candidate works onsite and is present for all AWAACC produced events and rentals, requiring weekend/evening work.
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Duties and Responsibilities
As a key member of the AWAACC team, the Manager, Special Events/Rentals will:
• Plan and execute rental events from inception to completion, aligning with client objectives and target audiences.
• Collaborate with the Operations team to promote AWAACC as a premier event venue at trade shows, sales events, and within the business community.
• Develop comprehensive plans to maximize the success and impact of rental events.
• Prepare and manage event budgets, ensuring adherence to financial constraints.
• Identify and negotiate with vendors and suppliers to ensure quality services.
• Supervise all event operations, including staff and third-party service providers (e.g., caterers).
• Conduct final approval of all event elements prior to execution.
• Troubleshoot and resolve any issues during events to ensure smooth execution.
• Evaluate event outcomes, prepare detailed pre and post-event reports.
• Brainstorm and implement innovative event plans and concepts.
• Train team members on AWAACC’s rental event procedures and best practices.
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Core Qualifications
The ideal candidate will possess:
• Demonstrated experience as a rental/event manager
• Professional appearance and polished presentation skills
• Strong customer service skills, friendly demeanor
• Proven experience as an event manager with a track record of executing successful events.
• Proficiency in event planning and diagram software such as Momentus or similar platforms.
• Exceptional organizational, problem-solving, and multitasking abilities.
• Creative vision with the ability to transform client ideas into memorable events.
• Strong communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Leadership skills, including the ability to train and manage teams.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and other presentation tools.
• Ability to create and manage event budgets effectively.
• Capacity to work under pressure and adapt to dynamic circumstances.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and varied schedules as required.
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Education and Experience
• Bachelor’s degree in Event Management, Public Relations, Communications, Hospitality, or a related field; equivalent experience may be considered.
• Minimum of three years of experience in event management, with expertise in wedding and conference planning.
• Proficiency in project management and event software.
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About AWAACC
The August Wilson African American Cultural Center is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering an inclusive environment for employees and patrons. We welcome applicants from diverse cultural, socioeconomic, racial, gender, age, and ability backgrounds.
Join us in creating extraordinary experiences that celebrate the richness of the African Diaspora and engage the broader community.
