Special Events Manager
The Opportunity:
Palm Beach Opera’s Special Events Manager will play a pivotal role in producing elegant, mission-driven events that deepen relationships and drive philanthropic engagement. This role is ideal for someone who thrives at the intersection of creativity, strategy, and relationship-building — someone who finds joy in crafting meaningful experiences that unite people around a shared love of the arts. In this position, you will lead the planning and execution of donor-centric events that support fundraising goals, strengthen our donor programs, and celebrate the transformative power of opera. You’ll work collaboratively across departments, analyze data to enhance impact, and bring energy and polish to every aspect of your work. You will be joining a mission-driven team that’s dedicated to advancing the arts in our community and shaping the future of opera while living in one of the most desirable coastal communities in the country.
Why Palm Beach Opera?
Palm Beach Opera is a dynamic and nationally recognized company with over 60 years of artistic excellence. Based in the vibrant West Palm Beach, PBO is celebrated for world-class productions, transformative education programs, and one of the industry’s top resident artist training pipelines. We’re passionate about creating extraordinary experiences—on stage, in classrooms, and throughout our community. Our culture thrives on collaboration, mentorship, and innovation, whether we’re launching emerging talent or partnering with local youth organizations to create their own operas.
What you’ll do:
- Plan and execute all donor-centric and fundraising events — including receptions, opening night dinners, a Lunch & Learn series, Board of Directors trips, and a 400-person annual gala at The Breakers — ensuring that each event reflects the mission and elevates the patron experience.
- Develop creative event concepts and thematic elements that align with institutional goals, donor interests, and artistic programming.
- Create and manage detailed event budgets, timelines, and run-of-show schedules to ensure seamless execution and positive financial outcomes.
- Secure and coordinate with venues, caterers, A/V teams, florists, and other vendors while negotiating favorable terms and ensuring exceptional service.
- Recruit, train, and lead event staff and volunteers, cultivating a collaborative and guest-focused event culture.
- Collaborate with internal departments — particularly marketing and artistic — to ensure event messaging, branding, and programming are consistent and compelling.
- Design and implement fundraising strategies within events to drive engagement, secure sponsorships, and inspire giving.
- Manage guest registration and RSVPs, oversee seating plans, and provide high-touch service to VIP donors and sponsors.
- In collaboration with marketing department, develop and execute event materials using email, social media, printed collateral, and press outreach.
- Conduct post-event evaluation, track attendance and giving data, and prepare internal reports that inform future planning.
- Lead aspects of donor programs, including recruitment events, renewals, increases, and benefit fulfillment.
- Analyze donor engagement data to refine strategies, identify trends, and maximize impact across events and fundraising initiatives.
- Serve as an enthusiastic ambassador for Palm Beach Opera at all events — cultivating lasting relationships and delivering outstanding guest experiences.
- Represent Palm Beach Opera’s mission and values with integrity, warmth, and professionalism in all external communications.
- Represent Palm Beach Opera at performances and community events, and build and maintain personal relationships with individuals and organizations that deepen the commitment of the Palm Beach philanthropic community to the company and its mission.
What you’ll bring:
- 3+ years of relevant experience in event planning, fundraising, and/or donor engagement — preferably in a nonprofit or arts organization.
- Demonstrated success planning and executing special events of varying scale with impeccable taste, including experience managing event budgets, logistics, and vendor relationships.
- A track record of meeting or exceeding fundraising goals through events, donor cultivation, and creative engagement strategies.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build meaningful relationships with donors, sponsors, vendors, volunteers, and staff.
- Strong organizational and project management skills — detail-oriented and able to juggle multiple deadlines and priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- A proactive, solutions-driven mindset with the ability to troubleshoot on the fly and adapt to changing circumstances with professionalism.
- Proficiency in CRM and event software platforms (such as PatronManager, Raiser’s Edge, OneCause, or similar), as well as Microsoft Office Suite.
- Familiarity with annual fund programs, including donor benefit fulfillment, stewardship, and engagement strategies.
- A collaborative spirit with the ability to work independently and cross-functionally in a team-oriented environment.
- A passion for the performing arts and a strong commitment to the mission of Palm Beach Opera.
- Discretion and sound judgment when working with confidential and sensitive information.
- Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and extended hours for donor events, performances, and meetings.
- Access to reliable transportation for travel to work, meetings, performances, and off-site events.
What we offer:
- Competitive salary range.
- Comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, paid time off, remote and flexible work-schedule during off-season, and 403 (b) with company match.
- A collaborative and supportive team environment where ideas are valued and contributions are recognized.
Ready to Increase your Impact?
Submit a resume and a brief cover letter in PDF format, highlighting relevant experience and why you’re excited about this opportunity at Palm Beach Opera, via email to pboHR@pbopera.org. Please address communications to Holland Sunyak, Director of Development.
This job description is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, skills, requirements, or working conditions associated with the job. While this listing is intended to be an accurate reflection of the current position, the company reserves the right to revise the position or to require that other or different responsibilities and tasks be performed or assigned.
Box Office Associate
Reports to: Director of Marketing & Communications and Box Office Manager
Classification: Seasonal, exempt
Palm Beach Opera seeks a Box Office Associate for seasonal work from September 2025 through March 2026. This position is a key member of the sales and marketing team, assisting with the day-to-day operations of the Box Office to ensure impeccable customer service for Palm Beach Opera’s patrons.
Primary Responsibilities
- Assist with Subscription Sales, Individual Ticket Sales, and Group Sales for all Palm Beach Opera events.
- Maintain accurate customer data in PatronManager to support Palm Beach Opera’s fundraising, publicity, and sales efforts.
- Ensure a high level of customer service in all Palm Beach Opera interactions.
- In patron communications, identify prospects who may become subscribers or donors, and collaborate with the development department on cultivation.
- Receive and respond to a wide range of public inquiries, concerns, and special issues.
- Assist Box Office Manager in generating regular management reports with accurate, up-to-date data on sales as needed.
- Build ticketed events in the PatronManager Database, as needed.
- Reconcile sales reports between Box Office data and the Finance department, as needed.
- Work with Marketing staff to create segmented database lists for the marketing department to deploy targeted ticket sales campaigns.
- Work with staff members to set up events, maintain seating manifests, and manage the preparation, presentation, and settlement of all Box Office records.
- Assist Box Office Manager and Director of Marketing & Communications with various projects, including proofreading digital and printed materials, coding of invoices, and more.
- Follow all policies outlined in the Box Office Operations Manual.
Qualifications and Requirements
- A cheerful and warm personality with a passion for customer service. An empathetic and patient listener with a positive and friendly attitude.
- An enthusiasm for the company’s mission and an eagerness to learn about and promote the company’s activities. A familiarity with Opera and/or Classical Music is an advantage.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills, and the ability to interact with a wide range of personalities.
- Ability to establish priorities and multitask, with strong organizational and creative problem-solving skills, a collaborative nature, and meticulous attention to detail.
- Discretion with confidential and sensitive information.
- Knowledge of computerized information systems and their application, including Microsoft Outlook and Microsoft Office. Experience working with CRM-style ticketing systems is preferred, and knowledge of PatronManager is an advantage.
- Must have the ability to work flexible hours for company’s performances, including extended hours, evenings, and weekends.
- Access to reliable transportation.
This job description is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, skills, requirements, or working conditions associated with the job. While this listing is intended to be an accurate reflection of the current job, the company reserves the right to revise the job or to require that other or different tasks be performed or assigned.
Please forward your cover letter and résumé in pdf format to: pboHR@pbopera.org. Please address communications to Tim Hill, Director of Marketing & Communications.
Director of Education & Community Engagement
Reports to: General Director
Classification: Full-time, exempt
Palm Beach Opera seeks a Director of Education & Community Engagement to begin full-time work in September/October 2025. This position is a member of the senior management team, leading the department responsible for the creation and implementation of the company’s Douglas and Delphine Daft Education & Engagement Programs.
Arts education has long been at the core of PBO’s mission, and the company is proud to serve students of all ages, families, and lifelong learners through free year-round educational programming in our fast-growing and diverse community. Last season, PBO reached over 6,500 children across South Florida, encompassing four counties (Palm Beach, Martin, Broward, and Hendry) and 26 Title I schools. Key department initiatives include bringing the power of live opera directly into schools with our Concerts in the Classroom featuring the company’s resident artists; welcoming students into the theatre to experience full productions with education stations during each mainstage final dress rehearsal; our popular Story Time Series for younger children which recently launched the sixth original book in our collection, based on Prokofiev’s fantastical opera, The Love for Three Oranges; and an innovative Opera Immersion partnership with the Boys & Girls Club which now reaches nearly 100 students annually who write, produce, and perform their own original operas with year-long mentorship from our staff. PBO’s adult programming currently includes ANIMA concerts which bring live opera performances to those who may not be able to attend mainstage productions, as well as partnerships with local libraries for Conversations, Forums, and Listening Clubs.
The new Director of Education & Community Engagement will build on the strong foundation established by their predecessor Catherine Hughes, who has recently been appointed executive director of a major university performing arts center. This current job opening is an exciting opportunity for a passionate educator to evaluate, enhance, and expand the important work of this department, with the support of a continuing full-time Education Manager as well as hourly teaching artists, volunteers, and an energized Board of Directors. The ideal candidate will be an enthusiastic ambassador for opera as an art form, and a natural teacher who inspires and connects easily with people of all ages.
Primary Responsibilities
- Plan and execute a comprehensive education and community engagement strategy with a focus on civic practice and overcoming barriers to access, resulting in sustained and meaningful impact and a deeper appreciation for opera among all residents in our community.
- Oversee all aspects of department programming for students and adults, from the booking process, to creating curricula and materials, to coordinating artists and staff participation, to leading sessions and evaluating outcomes.
- Collaborate closely with the artistic, marketing, and development departments on scheduling, messaging, and fundraising, including assisting with grant applications and reporting.
- Represent Palm Beach Opera at community events while networking to enhance the company’s relationship with community leaders and service organizations, school boards and teachers/administrators, libraries, and other arts organizations.
- Motivate and lead education department personnel, providing mentorship to the Education Manager, teaching artists, interns, and volunteers, and helping team members to develop skills and increase effectiveness.
- Create and manage the education department budget.
- Prepare and present reports for the Board of Directors.
Qualifications and Requirements
- Minimum of 3 years of experience in arts education.
- Extensive background in music, with a broad knowledge of opera repertoire and history.
- Demonstrated track record of building community collaborations and partnerships, as well as an understanding of protocols and procedures for public, private, and homeschool environments. Familiarity with the Palm Beach County education system and local service organizations is an advantage.
- Approachable personality with strong interpersonal skills and the ability to inspire and foster a love of opera in people of all ages.
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with an affinity for storytelling. Proficiency or fluency in Spanish is an advantage.
- Ability to establish priorities and multitask, with strong organizational, analytical, and creative problem-solving skills, a determination to succeed, and meticulous attention to detail.
- Effective leadership qualities. Experience managing a team is an advantage.
- Knowledge of computerized information systems and their application, including Microsoft Outlook and Microsoft Office.
- Must have the ability to work flexible hours, including extended hours, evenings, and weekends for department events and company performances.
- Access to reliable transportation.
- Successful completion of background checks through the School District of Palm Beach County, Children’s Services, and Boys & Girls Club of Palm Beach County.
This job description is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, skills, requirements, or working conditions associated with the job. While this listing is intended to be an accurate reflection of the current job, the company reserves the right to revise the job or to require that other or different tasks be performed or assigned.
Please forward your cover letter and résumé in pdf format to: pboHR@pbopera.org. Please address communications to James Barbato, General Director. As part of the interview process, candidates will be requested to submit work samples relevant to this position, such as study guides, writing samples, and curricula.
Grants & Stewardship Manager
The Opportunity:
Palm Beach Opera’s Grants & Stewardship Manager will drive our grant-seeking efforts and deepen our donor relationships. This role is designed for an individual who seeks to blend data, storytelling, and strategy to secure critical funding and ensure meaningful, lasting engagement with supporters. In this position, you will harness both your analytical and creative skills —building connections, managing complex projects, and making a tangible impact through your work. You will be joining a mission-driven team that’s dedicated to advancing the arts in our community and shaping the future of opera while living in one of the most desirable coastal communities in the country.
Why Palm Beach Opera?
Palm Beach Opera is a dynamic and nationally recognized company with over 60 years of artistic excellence. Based in vibrant West Palm Beach, PBO is celebrated for its world-class productions, transformative education programs, and one of the industry’s top resident artist training pipelines. We’re passionate about creating extraordinary experiences — on stage, in classrooms, and throughout our community. Our culture thrives on collaboration, mentorship, and innovation, whether we’re launching emerging talent or partnering with local youth organizations to create their own operas.
What you’ll do:
- Identify and pursue new funding opportunities by researching local, state, federal, and private grant sources.
- Develop compelling grant proposals and budgets in collaboration with program and finance teams.
- Manage the full lifecycle of grant applications — from submission through reporting — ensuring deadlines and compliance requirements are met.
- Track grant expenditures, evaluate outcomes, and produce timely financial and narrative reports for funders.
- Cultivate strong relationships with institutional funders and individual donors through proactive, personalized communication.
- Design and implement stewardship strategies to engage, recognize, and retain donors at all levels.
- Communicate the impact of giving through clear, creative storytelling and data-driven reports.
- Maintain accurate donor and grant records, ensuring data integrity and donor confidentiality.
- Use analytics to assess donor engagement and refine strategies for long-term support.
- Represent Palm Beach Opera’s mission and values with integrity, warmth, and professionalism in all external communications.
- Represent Palm Beach Opera at performances and community events, and build and maintain personal relationships with individuals and organizations that deepen the commitment of the Palm Beach philanthropic community to the company and its mission.
What you’ll bring:
- 3+ years of experience in fundraising, grant writing, or nonprofit management.
- Proven success in fundraising and grant writing, with experience securing support from foundations, corporations, and individuals.
- Strong financial acumen, including the ability to develop budgets, track expenses, and produce accurate reports.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a talent for persuasive storytelling and donor engagement.
- Effective project management abilities — highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
- Experience cultivating and maintaining positive relationships with donors, funders, and stakeholders.
- Proficiency in CRM and grant management platforms (e.g., Salesforce, Foundant, PatronManager, Raiser’s Edge) and Microsoft Office Suite.
- A collaborative spirit with the ability to work independently and cross-functionally in a team-oriented environment.
- A passion for the performing arts and a strong commitment to the mission of Palm Beach Opera.
- Discretion and sound judgment when working with confidential and sensitive information.
- Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and extended hours for donor events, performances, and meetings.
- Access to reliable transportation for travel to work, meetings, performances, and off-site events.
What we offer:
- Competitive salary range.
- Comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, paid time off, remote and flexible work-schedule during off-season, and 403 (b) with company match.
- A collaborative and supportive team environment where ideas are valued and contributions are recognized.
Ready to Increase your Impact?
Submit a resume and a brief cover letter in PDF format, highlighting relevant experience and why you’re excited about this opportunity at Palm Beach Opera, via email to pboHR@pbopera.org. Please address communications to Holland Sunyak, Director of Development.
This job description is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, skills, requirements, or working conditions associated with the job. While this listing is intended to be an accurate reflection of the current position, the company reserves the right to revise the position or to require that other or different responsibilities and tasks be performed or assigned.
Costume Director
- Job Title: Costume Director
- Reports to: Director of Production & Facilities
- Classification: Seasonal, exempt
Palm Beach Opera seeks a Costume Director to begin work in fall 2025. This position is responsible for the procurement, alteration, and construction of all costumes and related items required for the Palm Beach Opera season. The Costume Director will supervise wardrobe personnel at the shop for fittings and alterations, and supervise wardrobe crew at the theatre for rehearsals and performances. This position requires a full-time commitment from November through March, with part-time remote hours in the off-season for future season planning.
Primary Responsibilities
- Serve as the company’s primary costume liaison with Stage Directors, Costume Designers, Director of Production, and Renting Company Supervisors.
- Research packages of rental costumes for upcoming seasons and potential titles, and make artistic and budgetary recommendations.
- Coordinate the acquisition, purchase, alteration, and return of all costume materials.
- Design and supervise the construction of additional, alternate, and/or special costumes as needed.
- Provide rehearsal costumes as requested by Stage Directors and Stage Management.
- Advise Stage Directors and support the artistic vision of each production, ensuring costumes are realized at a high artistic standard and within budget.
- Attend and supervise all fittings, any rehearsals when costumes are being worn, and all production meetings.
- Supervise all Wardrobe related activities, from managing workflow and scheduling adequate crew within budgetary parameters, to assigning projects and ensuring their timely completion, tracking hours, and overseeing the crew in the shop and at all rehearsals and performances.
- Maintain updated measurement sheets for all artists, coordinating with the artistic staff and other costume departments to collect recent measurements, updating onsite as necessary, and organizing in company’s files and on ArtsVision.
- Maintain accurate tracking of expenses, payroll, and petty cash.
- Maintain a clean, safe and well-stocked workspace.
- Collaborate with other company departments for donor engagement, social media, and presentations as necessary.
Qualifications and Requirements
- Minimum of 3 years of experience in a costume department or related position. Previous costume design experience and work with an IATSE crew are advantages.
- Extensive knowledge of costume history, construction techniques, fabric, and costume shop procedures, as well as a thorough understanding of current best practices for fittings and costume alterations. Knowledge of art history and the traditions and literature of opera are advantages.
- Dedication to PBO’s mission to set the benchmark for artistic excellence.
- Effective leadership qualities, with a positive and respectful attitude.
- Ability to establish priorities and multitask, with strong organizational, quantitative, and creative problem-solving skills, excellent written and verbal communication, and meticulous attention to detail.
- Knowledge of computerized information systems and their application, including Microsoft Outlook and Microsoft Office. Familiarity with ArtsVision is an advantage.
- Must have the ability to work flexible hours, including extended hours, evenings, and weekends.
- Must have the ability to stand for long hours, climb stairs and use step ladders, lift and carry up to 30 pounds, and tolerate exposure to common laundry chemicals.
- Access to reliable transportation.
This job description is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, skills, requirements, or working conditions associated with the job. While this listing is intended to be an accurate reflection of the current job, the company reserves the right to revise the job or to require that other or different tasks be performed or assigned.
Please forward your cover letter and résumé in pdf format to: jbruckerhoff@pbopera.org. Please address communications to Jeff Bruckerhoff, Director of Production & Facilities.
SUPERNUMERARIES
We are always looking to expand our talent pool of supernumeraries. Whether an expert or a novice, all are welcome! Each production has a limited number of supernumerary roles (or extras). These people perform as guards, sailors, townsfolk, matadors, clergy, etc. according to the needs of the production.
We are looking for enthusiastic and dependable people of all ages and types. As a member of our silent but critically important supernumerary cast, you’ll receive a stipend, get tickets to dress rehearsals, meet new people, and have lots of fun! To be considered and added to our active list, please email our Super Captain Wayne Mclead: rugbypalmbeach@gmail.com
VOLUNTEERS
Palm Beach Opera offers exciting volunteer opportunities to both students and adults. Volunteers provide vital support by assisting various departments with mailings, customer service, attending opera functions and so much more. If you are interested in becoming a Palm Beach Opera volunteer please contact us at 561.833.7888 or email volunteer@pbopera.org.