Gala & Special Events Assistant (part-time, temporary) - Ordway Center for the Performing Arts

The Ordway: The Ordway is the arts epicenter of Saint Paul, Minnesota, and one of the leading nonprofit performing arts centers in the country. Founded on the belief that performing arts should be wide-ranging and accessible to all, the Ordway is home to a variety of performances that encompass the finest in Broadway musicals, concerts, dance and vocal artists. Known as the most comfortable place to catch a show in Minnesota, the Ordway includes a magnificent 1,900-seat Music Theater, a state-of-the-art 1,100-seat Concert Hall and spacious lobbies. The Ordway aims to reflect the communities it serves and address barriers to ensure everyone can experience the power of the performing arts. 

Position Purpose: The Gala & Special Events Assistant will assist the Ordway’s Events Manager with the planning and execution of the Garden Gala, the Ordway’s largest fundraising event of the year, and the planning and execution of donor cultivation and stewardship events. This includes all aspects of event concept, development and management. The ideal candidate will thrive in a high-pressure environment, be flexible with task assignments, and have an interest in special events and fundraising.

Benefits of the position:

•    Exposure to nonprofit fundraising. 

•    Gain event management skills and experience.

•    Develop database and office skills.

•    Develop professional contacts with Ordway staff and volunteers.

•    Logistical knowledge of special events.

Position Details:

• Posting Date: 11/13/24
• Closing Date: The Ordway is dedicated to building an equitable environment and strongly encourages applications from Black, Indigenous, People of Color, women, transgender and non-binary candidates. This position will remain open until a diverse and qualified pool of candidates is identified. Applicants from populations underrepresented in the theater field are strongly encouraged to apply.
• Pay: Starting at $17 per hour
• Schedule: 10-15 hrs/wk January-April 2025 and 20-25 hrs/wk May–July. Some evening and weekend work. Full days late into the evening June 25-27.
• Employee Type: Hourly, Part-time, Temporary
• Department: Advancement    
• Reports to: Events Manager

Key Performance Areas:  

• Assist the Events Manager in the organization of Gala activities to ensure event meets fundraising goals.
• Assist in writing for the Gala including for social media, emails, auction descriptions, and event descriptions.
• Assist in coordinating in-person and Zoom committee meetings. Take meeting notes.
• Provide on-site event support to the Events Manager leading up to, and the day of, the Garden Gala on Thursday, June 26, 2025, to ensure a successful and efficient event.
• Provide support to the Events Manager with post-Gala activities to ensure all are closed out and properly archived.
• Assist the Events Manager with planning and coordination of donor cultivation and stewardship events to foster and strengthen donor relations.
• The Ordway is especially interested in candidates who can contribute to the diversity and inclusive excellence of the organization through their communication skills.

Other Qualifications:

• Ability to anticipate and plan for the unexpected and juggle multiple projects simultaneously.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative/team setting.
• Ability to demonstrate positive, proactive and self-motivated behavior.
• High school diploma or GED required, BA or BS preferred.
• Experience in event planning, administration, or nonprofits strongly preferred.
• Reliable transportation required.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends as needed.

The Ordway requires all employees to adhere to the COVID safety standards set by the artists and tours that perform on our stages. This means that at times Ordway employees may be required to wear masks, to take COVID tests, and possibly, to provide proof of COVID vaccination. The Ordway is an equal opportunity employer and will consider requests for reasonable accommodation for employees and applicants based on disability or sincerely-held religious beliefs.

To Apply: For more information or to apply, visit ordway.org/employment.

Ordway is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, creed, marital status, familial status, public assistance status, age, local human rights commission activity, national origin, and veteran, or disability status.  The Ordway Theater and administrative office are wheelchair accessible and service animals are welcomed. All applicants who have questions or needs regarding access accommodations or interpreting assistance for job interviews are encouraged to reach out to Human Resources.   

We know there are great candidates who may not fit into the criteria we’ve outlined here, or who have important skills we haven’t listed. If that’s you, please don’t hesitate to apply anyway and tell us about yourself.