NCTA Seeks Local Festival Manager for the National Folk Festival

The City of Jackson, in partnership with the NCTA, is seeking an experienced and dynamic individual to serve as the Local Festival Manager for the National Folk Festival, a critical role in bringing this iconic event to life in Jackson. Over the next three years, this position will offer a unique opportunity to lead a large-scale cultural event that fosters community building, celebrates diverse traditions, and enhances Jackson’s cultural legacy.

The Local Festival Manager will be a key figure in ensuring the success of the festival’s residency in Jackson, overseeing planning, execution, and community engagement. This individual will be the bridge between the NCTA, the City of Jackson, and local partners, working to secure broad participation, financial support, and media attention to establish Jackson as a national hub for folk arts.

This role is ideal for someone with a passion for cultural festivals, a commitment to community development, and the leadership experience to manage a complex, large-scale event.

The ideal candidate for this position will possess the following qualifications:

• Education and Professional Experience: A bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience, with five or more years in festival management, large-scale event planning, or related fields.
• Fundraising and Marketing Expertise: Proven success in managing fundraising campaigns, sponsorships, and marketing strategies for large events.
• Leadership and Communication Skills: Demonstrated ability to lead teams, coordinate with multiple stakeholders, and effectively manage relationships with partners, sponsors, and the public.
• Attention to Detail: The ability to multitask, meet tight deadlines, and problem-solve in a fast-paced environment.
  Technological Proficiency: Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite, virtual meeting platforms, and other relevant technology tools.
• Commitment to Community: A genuine passion for culture, arts, and community development, and the personal qualities of integrity, honor, and dedication to the festival’s mission.
• Local Residency Requirement: Candidates must already reside in or be willing and able to travel to Jackson, MS, for all meetings. Within 2 months of acceptance, the selected applicant must reside within a 50-mile radius of downtown Jackson.
• Valid Driver’s License: A valid state-issued driver’s license is required. Within 30 days of relocating to Mississippi, the selected applicant is expected to obtain a Mississippi driver’s license.

This is a contract position with a salary range between 65,000 – 70,000 with work on-site in Jackson, Mississippi.

Applications must be submitted by 4:00 PM CST on Tuesday, October 1, 2024.

Learn more on the AFS Career Center.