Events & Programming Coordinator

The Events and Programming Coordinator supports creation, implementation, and impact evaluation of engaging experiences that make Downtown Houston an even more welcoming, vibrant, and attractive place. This key team player brings exceptional customer service skills and professionalism to interactions with internal and external clients and vendors. This person helps the Downtown Houston+ Engagement Team to produce events ranging from festivals and markets attracting thousands of attendees, to daily programming that creates a hum of activity in public spaces at the micro-neighborhood level. While embracing a challenging, dynamic atmosphere, the Events and Programming Coordinator is adept at multitasking, organizing, and managing schedules, budgets, and timely correspondence.

About Downtown Houston+

Downtown Houston+ (DTH+) comprises organizations that champion and enhance Downtown Houston, including Central Houston Inc. / Central Houston Civic Improvement, the Downtown Redevelopment Authority, and the Houston Downtown Management District.

Central Houston, Inc. / Central Houston Civic Improvement

Founded in 1983, Central Houston, Inc. creates a community to advocate and advance the vision for Downtown. Led by a prestigious board of corporate and community leaders, it is a non-profit organization funded by its members. Central Houston Civic Improvement is a 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable affiliate of Central Houston, Inc., and serves as the fiscal agent for catalyst projects.

Houston Downtown Management District

In 1996, the Texas legislature created the Houston Downtown Management District to protect and beautify the public realm, provide programming and marketing, and plan and catalyze economic development. Guided by a diverse board, it is funded through a fair and proportionate assessment of real property.

Downtown Redevelopment Authority / TIRZ #3

Downtown Redevelopment Authority/TIRZ #3 improves Downtown's economic well-being through capital and operational investments in parks, infrastructure, safety, and other public realm improvements. It is governed by a city-appointed or confirmed board. These improvements are made possible by reinvesting incremental property taxes within its zone's boundaries.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

1. Plan and execute logistics for ongoing programming and special events, including setup, registration processing, email communication, collaboration with Engagement and Operations Teams, Park staff, and any other partners, gathering impact metrics, and event breakdown.
2. Create, maintain, and track timelines, budgets, and implementation plans to ensure smooth daily programming and special event execution.
3. Provide day-of event support for Engagement Team, Operations and Parks staff and vendors to ensure smooth execution of all event components.
4. Assist with evaluating event outcomes, financial performance, and participant engagement while preparing post-event debrief materials.
5. Build positive relationships with key stakeholders, including Downtown residents, business owners, programming partners, and third-party event producers.
6. Support administrative functions of programming and special events, including responding with courtesy and professionalism to interested parties seeking reservations for public spaces Downtown Houston+ manages.
7. Collaborate with third-party vendors and suppliers to  plan, coordinate, and implement events, ensuring all aspects conform to predetermined specifications and standards.
8. Support  Operations Team with safety and related measures for all events to ensure adherence to local regulations and permits required for public gatherings.
9. Use feedback and data analysis to improve future events, which could involve distributing surveys and other tools to gather feedback and measure satisfaction.
10. Train and oversee event staff and volunteers, providing clear instructions and support throughout event planning and execution.
11. Coordinate post-event follow-up, including, without limitation, thank you letters to stakeholders and related communication, as appropriate.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree preferred, with relevant certifications such as Certified Special Event Professional (CSEP), Certified Meeting Professional (CMP), or equivalent in event and meeting planning desirable, or Associate’s Degree in related field with at least five years of relevant experience.
• Proven expertise in live events, hospitality, and meeting coordination, with familiarity in managing timelines, budgets, and deliverables.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and CRM tools, Hubspot preferred, with experience leveraging technology for efficient project management.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse audiences, including vendors, stakeholders, and community members.
• Demonstrated ability to thrive both independently and as an integral part of a collaborative team, contributing to a positive and productive work environment.
• Willingness and flexibility to occasionally work irregular hours, including evenings and weekends, to support events and programs.
• Familiarity with Downtown Houston is a plus.
• This position requires the ability to lift and carry objects of up to 50lbs for short distances, as well as the ability to stand for extended periods of time, as needed, for up to eight hours at a time.

Core Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Interpersonal Skills: Thrives in collaborative team environments, contributing to a positive workplace culture while demonstrating professionalism in interactions with community stakeholders.
• Detail-Oriented: Pays close attention to the particulars of programming and event production processes, delivering high-quality outputs with minimal errors.
• Organizational Skills: Manages multiple priorities effectively, keeping all activities, events, and administrative tasks on track to meet deadlines and organizational objectives.
• Creative Problem Solving: Identifies potential challenges and proactively implements solutions to address them while supporting broader organizational goals.

Benefits

Compensation & Benefits:

Salary ranging from $60,000 - $75,000, commensurate with experience. The position offers a generous benefit package, including health + dental + vision + life insurance, health savings account, parking stipend, and 401k retirement contributions. Vacation and sick time are also included.