Senior Director of Programming & Production

Tennessee Theatre | Knoxville, TN
Full-Time | Exempt Leadership Role

Lead the Team. Shape the Experience.

The Tennessee Theatre is seeking a seasoned, strategic, and collaborative leader to serve as our Senior Director of Programming & Production. This role is central to ensuring the artistic and operational excellence of one of the region’s most iconic performing arts venues.

About the Tennessee Theatre
The Tennessee Theatre is a historic and fully-restored 1,600-seat venue hosting more than 175 events annually, including nationally touring concerts, comedy, and Broadway; local performing arts organizations; and mission-driven educational and community programming.

With the recent expansion into a newly renovated multi-level adjacent facility, the Theatre is entering a dynamic phase of growth—creating new opportunities to expand programming and deepen community impact.

We are committed to fostering an inclusive, welcoming environment where diversity strengthens our mission and enriches our work.

WHAT YOU’LL DO
Programming & Industry Leadership

Serve as the primary liaison with the Theatre’s exclusive talent buyer, Live Nation, reviewing/approving offers and advocating for the Theatre’s interests and priorities

Guide booking strategy across touring acts, resident partners, and rental clients

Advise executive leadership on programming decisions, including financial and reputational considerations

Calendar & Strategic Oversight

Lead management of the full event calendar across all Theatre spaces

Align bookings with organizational priorities, balancing mission-driven and revenue-generating events

Develop and refine booking policies for expanded venue spaces

Production & Event Execution

Oversee key aspects of event preparation and execution, including contracts, production logistics, technical requirements, and settlements

Ensure consistency and excellence across every event experience

Lead production meetings and drive operational coordination across departments

Leadership & Collaboration

Lead and develop a diverse team of production and event professionals

Collaborate with leadership across Audience Services, Advancement, and Facilities to develop short- and long-term strategic goals and priorities

Build strong relationships with artists, vendors, community leaders, and stakeholders

Financial & Organizational Stewardship

Develop and manage departmental budgets, with a focus on revenue growth and financial sustainability

Analyze financial performance and identify strategic improvements

WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR
This is a high-impact leadership role requiring deep expertise in live entertainment and venue operations.

Required Experience

6–8+ years in live entertainment, touring, or venue management

Proven experience booking touring events and managing artist/agent relationships

Strong background in production logistics, contracts, and event settlements

2–4 years of leadership or supervisory experience

Key Skills & Capabilities

Strategic decision-making in high-pressure environments

Exceptional communication and stakeholder management skills

Strong leadership presence with the ability to inspire and develop teams

Deep understanding of live event industry trends and market dynamics

Commitment to a mission-driven organization and inclusive workplace culture

Work Environment & Schedule

Full-time, exempt leadership position

Requires flexibility, including evenings, weekends, and occasional holidays in alignment with event schedules

Physically active role involving extended standing, walking, and occasional lifting

WHO SHOULD APPLY
We’re looking for candidates who are:

Experienced leaders in live entertainment or venue operations

Comfortable balancing strategic vision with hands‑on execution

Driven to create exceptional experiences for artists, audiences, and community

JOIN US
If you’re ready to lead programming and production at a landmark performing arts venue—and make a lasting impact on a thriving cultural institution we invite you to apply by selecting the link below:

Senior Director of Programming & Production – The Historic Tennessee Theatre Foundation

Equal Opportunity Commitment
The Historic Tennessee Theatre Foundation is committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming workplace. We encourage all qualified candidates to apply.

DISCLAIMER
This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice. This job description does not in any way constitute a contract or guarantee of employment.

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