The Cultural Programs Manager is responsible for planning, implementing, and enhancing recurring as well as new cultural programming activities at Portland Japanese Garden (PJG), both in-person and virtual. This position is great for someone who has had exposure to Japanese culture and traditions through either living or studying/working in Japan, with program and event management experience, and an interest in broadening the scope of PJG’s cultural programs at the new Japan Institute ("The Institute") to be launched in 2022. This position will work from the primary Garden campus, located at 611 SW Kingston Avenue.
The Cultural Programs Manager reports to the Director of Cultural Programs.
COVID-19 Vaccination Policy: For the safety of our staff, volunteers, and guests, Portland Japanese Garden is requiring all staff and volunteers to be vaccinated against the COVID-19 virus. Candidates must be fully vaccinated by their hire date. ‘Fully vaccinated’ means 2 shots of either the Moderna or Pfizer vaccine, or 1 shot of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine – plus 2 weeks after the final shot.
Primary Duties
- With oversight from the Curator of CAE and the Director of Cultural Programs, plan, implement, and enhance recurring cultural programming activities at PJG, both in-person and virtual. They include, but are not limited to, Japanese annual festivals, music programs, demonstrations of traditional art forms such as tea, ikebana, bonsai, calligraphy and painting, and cultural workshops.
- Serve as the primary staff person during in-person and virtual cultural programs, especially larger annual festivals.
- With oversight from the Curator of CAE and the Director of Cultural Programs, develop new cultural programs. The focus of the first year is to develop hybrid (virtual + in-person) cultural workshops.
- In doing the above, work closely with local, national, and international cultural organizations, experts, and practitioners.
- Maintain ongoing, clear communications with such supporting individuals and organizations.
- Assist CAE’s programmatic efforts in community outreach, working with other departments as necessary.
- Work with the Curator of CAE and the Director of Cultural Programs in planning for the programmatic direction of the Japan Institute, especially that of the Global Center for Culture and Art.
- Work cooperatively with staff in other departments, including the Operations/Events Department, Garden Department, Marketing, Development, and Executive Office to coordinate activities that relate to cultural programs and activities
- Write and edit descriptions and supporting text for programs and collateral materials
- Work with the Director of Cultural Programs to create and manage annual Cultural Programs budget.
- Keep the database of PJG's cultural partners updated.
- Assist Director of Cultural Programs in providing consulting and advice on Japanese culture to other departments and enhancing staff's understanding on Japanese culture in general.
- Assist Directors of Volunteers and Cultural Programs with volunteer continuing education opportunities.
- Supervise the CAE Assistant together with the Special Programs Manager.
- Other duties as assigned.
Other Responsibilities
- Communicate with cultural partners, staff, and other community partners in a friendly and professional manner
- Continue learning about Japanese culture and art
- Familiarize oneself with the organization and the Employee Handbook
- Get to know fellow staff members, developing trust, establishing credibility, encouraging teamwork, and creating an atmosphere of open, honest, two-way communication
- Serve as a role model for Garden volunteers, providing support and encouragement to volunteers in their roles across the Garden
- Maintain a high level of professionalism in manner and appearance
- Adhere to Garden Dress Code (business casual)
Qualifications
Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe they meet every one of the qualifications as described in a job description. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the position, and that candidate may be one who comes from a less traditional background. If you are interested in applying, we encourage you to think broadly about your background and qualifications for this role.
- Bachelor's degree required, or equivalent experience
- At least three years of experience in cultural program development and management, or equivalent combination of different experiences. Some experience in Japanese cultural programs is a big plus.
- Proficiency in Japanese language not required, but preferred
- Strong communication abilities – clear writing and articulate speaking ability. Public speaking experience preferred.
- Ability to use proper modes of communication depending on situations and people (cultural partners, colleagues, members, visitors, etc.)
- Ability to work under pressure, and/or with frequent interruptions
- Ability to meet multiple demands and priorities
- Ability to adapt to ever-changing organizational and social environment
- Ability to operate well in a fast-paced environment
- Ability to handle unexpected situations calmly and flexibly
- Detail-oriented and organized
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (e.g., Outlook, Word, Excel and PowerPoint)
Special Requirements
- Must be able to periodically work evenings and weekends, especially during the months of May-September
- Must be able to work effectively in an open office environment
- Must be able to work outdoors in all types of weather conditions (for events)
- Must be able to remain in a stationary position for several hours
- Must be able to lift 25 lbs on occasion (for events set-up, etc.)
- Wage: $50,000 - $55,000/year (DOE)
- This is a full-time, benefitted, salaried position with approximately 40-45 hours per week.
- Shifts are typically 8 hours (plus ½ hour lunch), Sunday – Thursday or Monday – Friday
- Benefits:
- health, dental, and vision insurance (premium 100% covered for employees)
- 401k plan (after 90 days, with 4% employer match after 1 year)
- flexible spending accounts for medical and dependent care expenses
- paid vacation, sick, and holiday time
- free access to the Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
To apply, please submit a resume, cover letter, and three work-related references through our online Career Center (https://recruiting.myapps.paychex.com/appone/MainInfoReq.asp?R_ID=4072602). Incomplete applications will not be considered. Please no phone calls or hand delivered applications. Applications accepted until the position is filled.
Portland Japanese Garden is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We recruit, employ, train, compensate, and promote without regard to race, color, national origin, creed, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, parental status, disability, age, veteran status, or any other status protected by law.