First review of applications will be on Monday, May 4, 2026, and weekly thereafter as needed.
The Performing Live Program Manager oversees the booking, contracting, management, and settlement of all Performing Live events at the Mesa Arts Center (MAC). This position manages the Performing Live calendar, budget, and oversees a variety of live events that include music, comedy, theater, dance, fine arts, and co-presentations in a multi-venue municipal environment. The Performing Live Program Manager is responsible for achieving established annual fiscal and programmatic goals; delivering high-quality, relevant programming to a diverse community; booking a diverse pool of artists; creating exceptional guest experiences; and maximizing attendance and earned revenue.
Duties performed include: managing key industry relationships; establishing and maintaining partnerships with performers and promotors, managing revenue, budgeting, and services for Performance Live; developing and implementing sales, advertising, and marketing strategies in conjunction with Deputy Director - Arts and Culture; researching and booking talent for future events and performances; cultivating and fostering relationships with local, national, and international promoters, artists, and agents; creating community partnerships; maintaining professional relationships with other citywide departments; and creating budgets, offers, and settlements for review by the Deputy Director - Arts and Culture, and closing settlements after performances.
In addition, this class assists the Contract, Marketing, and Box Office team with administering event and performance contracts; ensuring adherence to operational procedures; attending events and fulfilling show duties as required; and maintaining clear and collaborative communication with the Marketing and Production team. This position represents the Mesa Arts Center at booking conferences and industry events to secure presentations. The role supervises assigned staff, including the Event Services Coordinators, by planning, coordinating, and assigning work; managing timekeeping; conducting performance appraisals; directing execution of marketing plans and initiatives; providing guidance and support; and ensuring compliance with department policies and procedures. The Program Manager oversees the Performance Live revenue and expense budget to ensure fiscal accountability. The nature of the work requires a good working relationship with the general public, as well as clients of the division. This class performs related duties as required.
Incumbents in this class have full supervisory responsibility. A Performing Live Program Manager exercises considerable discretion and judgment in analyzing and resolving complex and/or sensitive inquiries or complaints referred by staff and works with the Deputy Director - Arts and Culture to facilitate solutions. Work is performed with considerable independence under the general supervision of a Deputy Director - Arts and Culture - who evaluates work through meetings, conferences, reports, and results achieved. Employees in this class may work irregular hours, evenings, weekends, and may be required to travel. This class is FLSA exempt-administrative.
Please refer to the link below for the full job description and additional information regarding assignments, preferred qualifications, and essential functions.
Employee Values (Download PDF reader): All employees of the City of Mesa are expected to uphold and exhibit the City's shared employee values of Knowledge, Respect, and Integrity.
Minimum Qualifications Required. Any combination of training, education, and experience equivalent to graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor's Degree in Arts Administration, Philanthropy, Art Education, Business Administration, Marketing, Public Relations, Hospitality, or a closely related field. Considerable (3 - 5 years) progressively responsible experience in the organization and management of performing arts programs, including direct performance bookings and one year of supervisory experience.
Special Requirement. Must possess a valid Class D Arizona Driver’s License by hire or promotion date.
Preferred/Desirable Qualification. A background in concert promotion, performing arts, artistic presentation, or managing an arts program is highly desirable.
