Program & Event Specialist

About the Position The Program & Event Specialist serves as a key driver of Mt. Cuba Center's visitor engagement strategy, responsible for designing, developing, and executing innovative programs and special events that enhance the guest experience while advancing our mission to inspire conservation and ecological gardening. This role works collaboratively with the guest experience and marketing department to create memorable experiences that connect visitors with native plant gardening. The position engages a unique blend of event management expertise and interpretive programming skills to deliver activations that are both engaging and educational. Essential Functions of the Role The following outlines key responsibilities of the role: Event Innovation & Development Design and develop innovative special events, seasonal celebrations, and unique programming that aligns with Mt. Cuba Center's mission and attracts diverse audiences Research and implement best practices from cultural attractions, museums, and public gardens to enhance program offerings Collaborate with marketing team to create compelling event concepts that drive visitor engagement and attendance Develop comprehensive event proposals including budgets, timelines, staffing requirements, and success metrics Event Execution & Operations Lead end-to-end execution of programs and events from initial planning through post-event evaluation Coordinate with multiple departments including horticulture, facilities, security, and food service to ensure seamless event delivery Manage event logistics including vendor relationships, permitting, equipment needs, and volunteer coordination Oversee on-site event management ensuring exceptional guest experience while maintaining garden preservation standards Develop and implement contingency plans for weather-dependent outdoor programming Conduct post-event analysis and reporting to measure success and identify improvement opportunities Exhibit & Interpretation Execution Collaborate with Guest Experience on the ideation, development and execution of compelling exhibits that connect Mt. Cuba's mission to a broad audience Collaborate with Guest Experience to identify and execute interpretative opportunities throughout all guest-facing spaces in our gardens and natural lands Assist in creating interpretive materials, signage, and resources that enhance self-guided garden experiences Work closely with Guest Experience to integrate programming and events with overall visitor experience strategy Participate in visitor feedback collection and analysis to inform future programming decisions Major Objectives/Projects for the First 6-12 Months The incoming Program & Event Specialist will be expected to make significant impacts in the following key areas during their first year: Program and Event Calendar Development: Develop a comprehensive program and event calendar for 2026 with a focus on creating compelling seasonal activations that effectively recruit new audiences, drive revenue and inspire a deeper understanding of our mission. Operational Excellence Framework: Create SOPs, communication plans and a project management structure to facilitate executional excellence for all programs and events, ensuring clear communication with stakeholders, collaborators and cross-functional partners. Strategic Event Pipeline: Build a pipeline of large-scale events and exhibits that will increase awareness of Mt. Cuba Center and expand our reach to new local and regional audiences. Education and Experience Bachelor's degree in event management, museum studies, recreation, or related field required 3-5 years of experience in event management and/or program development in cultural attractions, museums, botanical gardens, or similar outdoor/educational venues Event management certification or relevant professional development preferred

Created: 2025-09-25