Director of Events

Full-Time | Reports to Executive Director

The Director of Events leads all event strategy, production, and execution for the Austin Wine & Food Foundation. As an events-driven organization, AWFF hosts 3-4 signature, large-scale events each year -- including the Annual Wine Auction & Gala -- alongside a robust calendar of smaller programs, dinners, and community events.

The Director of Events will also oversee management and programming of our new event space, creating a platform for elevated member experiences and new revenue opportunities. This is a senior role requiring a seasoned event professional who can lead with vision, operate with precision, and inspire excellence across every touchpoint.

The Events Director manages all relationships with event contractors and vendors, and reports to the Executive Director.

Event Production & Execution

• Own full planning, production, and execution for all AWFF events, from concept through final accounting
• Lead production of the Annual Wine Auction & Gala and other signature large-scale fundraising events
• Elevate the quality, creativity, and guest experience of AWFF's smaller programs and cultivation events
• Develop and maintain production calendars and planning task lists; manage team, board, and vendors as necessary Create and manage event budgets; deliver final reconciliations and post-event reporting
• Creation and maintenance of Production Schedule and Run-of-Show documents

Venue & Space Management

• Serve as primary manager of AWFF's new permanent event space, including scheduling, setup standards, and operational protocols
• Develop and maintain a venue rental program, including pricing, policies, contracts, and client relations
• Coordinate with building management on facility readiness, maintenance needs, and vendor access
• Establish and uphold presentation and setup standards that reflect AWFF's brand and mission

Leadership & Vendor Management

• Directly manage the Marketing & Events Coordinator ; provide mentorship, clear direction, and performance oversight
• Source, contract, and manage all event vendors and contractors; hold vendors accountable to quality and budget standards
• Collaborate closely with the Development & Marketing team on event promotion, sponsorship fulfillment, and donor experience
• Work in close partnership with the Executive Director and Board on event strategy and major event planning

Availability

• Must be available to work evenings and weekends in accordance with the event schedule

• Proven leader who takes full ownership of events from concept through execution
• Exceptional attention to detail and commitment to producing excellent, polished experiences
• Strong communicator -- written and verbal -- with the ability to manage multiple stakeholders
• Collaborative team player who thrives in a small, mission-driven organization
• Solutions-oriented with a calm, proactive approach to challenges
• High integrity, accountability, and professionalism in all interactions
• Mission-driven and genuinely invested in food, wine, and community
• Receptive to feedback and committed to continuous improvement
• Adaptable and comfortable with change in a growing organization

• 7-10 years of progressive event production experience, with demonstrated expertise in large-scale galas, fundraising events, or comparable productions
• Experience managing staff and/or event contractors
• Nonprofit Gala event experience strongly preferred; auction experience a plus
• Venue or hospitality operations experience a plus
• Knowledge of the food and beverage industry a plus
• Proficiency with event management tools, event budgeting, and standard productivity platforms

• Salary range: commensurate with experience
• Health insurance provided through United Healthcare
• Generous PTO plus paid holidays

Please email a cover letter and resume to [email protected]. No calls, please.

The Austin Wine & Food Foundation is a nonprofit organization that cultivates a community that celebrates the art, culture, and enjoyment of wine and food through educational programs and unparalleled events. We harness the collective power of this community to support our philanthropic initiatives.

We are a small, dedicated team supported by an engaged Board of Directors. With 40 years of history and a new permanent home on the horizon, AWFF is entering an exciting chapter of growth -- and this role is central to it.