Festival Manager

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Festival Manager to lead the planning, organization, and execution of the annual Human Rights Are Universal Festival.

The Festival Manager will work closely with the artistic team, partners, and stakeholders to ensure the successful delivery of a world-class event that promotes human rights awareness through art and culture.

Key Responsibilities:

• Overall management and coordination of the festival program
• Budget management and financial reporting
• Team leadership and supervision
• Venue management and logistics coordination
• Partnership development and stakeholder engagement
• Risk assessment and management
• Marketing and communications oversight

Detailed Responsibilities

Program Management

• Oversee the development and implementation of the festival program
• Coordinate with artists, performers, and speakers
• Ensure all events align with the festival's mission and values

Operations & Logistics

• Manage venue selection, contracts, and relationships
• Coordinate technical requirements and production elements
• Oversee all logistics including transportation, accommodation, and catering
• Implement health and safety protocols

Financial Management

• Develop and manage the festival budget
• Track expenses and ensure financial targets are met
• Prepare financial reports for stakeholders and donors

Team Leadership

• Lead and motivate the festival team
• Coordinate volunteers and temporary staff
• Facilitate effective communication among all team members

Partnerships & Stakeholder Relations

• Develop and maintain relationships with partners, sponsors, and donors
• Represent the festival at external meetings and events
• Ensure all stakeholders are engaged and informed

Required Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of experience in festival or event management
• Proven track record of successfully delivering large-scale cultural events
• Experience in arts administration, particularly in a human rights context
• Excellent project management skills with attention to detail
• Strong leadership abilities with experience managing diverse teams
• Financial management experience, including budget development and oversight
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
• Passion for human rights and the arts
• Bachelor's degree in arts management, event management, or related field

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in East Africa or other international contexts
• Knowledge of human rights issues and advocacy
• Multilingual abilities (English plus one or more local languages)
• Experience with grant writing and fundraising
• Network of contacts in the arts and human rights sectors

Application Process

To apply for this position, please submit the following:

1. A detailed CV highlighting relevant experience
2. A cover letter explaining your interest and qualifications
3. Names and contact information for three professional references
4. A brief proposal (maximum 2 pages) outlining your vision for the next festival

Please send all application materials to jobs@hraufestival.org with the subject line "Festival Manager Application".

Application Deadline: July 30, 2025

Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview and may be asked to complete a practical exercise related to festival planning.

We are an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. We encourage applications from all qualified candidates regardless of background.