Summary/Objective
Job Description
ABOUT THE BSO
Founded in 1881, the Boston Symphony Orchestra (BSO) is one of the premier orchestras in the world. The BSO is committed to bringing world class music and performances to the local and international communities. The key to our success has been our employees, from the musicians onstage to those behind the scenes.
About the Role
The Director of Gala Events leads the planning and execution of the Boston Symphony Orchestra’s (BSO) fundraising gala events. While the Senior Director of Special Events sets fundraising strategy, the long-range events plan, and key stakeholder relationships, this position turns that vision into polished, memorable events that deepen donor relationships and advance and achieve giving goals.
This role is hands-on in event design, production, and day-of execution, and owns event-level operations and logistics from planning through breakdown. It manages two direct reports and partners with multiple departments including, but not limited to: Facilities, Development Operations, Marketing, and IT to secure the support needed. The Director is a creative, detail-oriented leader who is calm under pressure, collaborative, and committed to excellence in the guest experience.
Responsibilities
Event Planning & Design
Lead end-to-end planning for development events, including three (3) annual fundraising galas and three (3) family-oriented donor engagement events, translating the Senior Director’s strategic direction into clear, executable plans.
Develop event concepts, guest flow, programming, and event flow documents that reflect Development House Standards and the goals of each event.
Build and manage event calendars, planning and production timelines, and project trackers covering all internal and vendor deliverables.
Coordinate production of invitations and event collateral with Marketing and vendors, and proofread and circulate all materials ahead of final sign-off.
Event Operations & Logistics
Manage venue logistics, contracts, permitting, insurance, and equipment rentals.
Ensure compliance with health, safety, accessibility, and regulatory requirements.
Develop contingency plans and risk mitigation strategies for each event.
Event Execution
Serve as the lead on site, directing staff, volunteers, and vendors to deliver a seamless guest experience.
Lead pre-event briefings and manage the event-day command structure, including real-time problem solving and quick response to on-site changes.
Oversee event setup, load-in, load-out, and breakdown in coordination with relevant stakeholders.
Fundraising and Donor Experience
Collaborate with the Director of Development Strategy and Analytics to set, track, report on and achieve fundraising goals,
Coordinate closely with frontline fundraisers to follow up on solicitation assignments.
Work with Senior Director of Events and frontline fundraising to align event plans with donor needs and stewardship objectives.
Elevate the donor experience through thoughtful guest services, hospitality, and consistent, high-quality touchpoints before, during, and after events.
Provide fundraisers with the briefings, materials, and day-of support they need to engage donors effectively.
Cross-Departmental Collaboration
Partner with Facilities, Development Operations, Marketing, IT, and other departments to secure the venue, facilities, ticket holds, invitation list generation, and technical support each event requires.
Communicate event needs, timelines, and deliverables clearly and proactively, and hold partners accountable to agreed timelines, so colleagues can plan and deliver their areas efficiently.
Participate in the cross-departmental meetings led by the Senior Director and maintain transparency across functions to prevent silos and reduce friction.
Vendor & Creative Partner Collaboration
Serve as the internal point of contact for event vendors and creative partners, including caterers, florists, designers, production teams, and rental…