Talent Buyer/ Programming Director

About the Role

A rare opportunity to join one of City Winery's flagship locations and the premier listening room in Boston, contributing to the company’s growth as we expand across the United States and internationally. This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to program at one of Boston’s best venues and collaborate with a nationwide team of programmers.

The Programming Director will oversee two spaces within the same facility: the Main Room (288 seated / 500 standing) and The Lounge (75 seated / 120 standing).

Responsibilities

• Program a full schedule of profitable shows throughout the year through effective communication, coordination across departments, and aggressive outreach with talent management.
• Expand programming in line with City Winery’s philosophy of combining culinary and cultural experiences.
• Drive programming that maximizes ticket sales, attendance, and food and beverage revenue.
• Collaborate with departments to announce shows efficiently and on time.
• Nurture relationships between City Winery, artist management, and operations teams.
• Scout, source, and secure talent to build a successful calendar through cross-departmental coordination.
• Build offers and negotiate contract terms with music agents and artists.
• Work with the Concert Manager, Box Office Manager, and Marketing Department to announce shows efficiently.
• Maintain a system for storing, sending, and tracking offers, contracts, and deposits.
• Direct the marketing of all ticketed events developed by the programming department.
• Supervise all aspects of programming and promotion for 200+ events annually, including calendar management, marketing, hospitality, production advance, and settlement.
• Develop creative programming with potential to grow into annual events.
• Monitor ticket sales and ensure timely updates to agents.
• Research and identify artists and potential supporting acts.
• Maintain a talent database with contact information, venue history, and media links.
• Update spreadsheets for month-end reports (concert totals, artist payments, press lists, confirmed payments) and provide financial breakdowns to Accounting.
• Pursue new programming ideas and partnerships beyond City Winery’s core offerings.
• Manage website updates for shows as needed.
• Organize hospitality logistics, including relationships with hotels and transportation providers.
• Supervise and review artist offers, contracts, and day-of settlements to ensure accurate and timely compensation.
• Act as a liaison between artists/artist teams and on-site management.
• Manage programming interns through recruitment, training, and oversight.
• Seek partnerships with external organizations to expand City Winery’s reach.
• Attend music conferences, festivals, and networking events to identify talent and cultivate industry relationships.
• Utilize marketing tools (website, newsletter, social media, media relationships) to promote the venue and increase attendance.
• Collaborate with the local marketing director to develop brand personality and event content.
• Assist with production and advance work for onsite and offsite events as needed.
• Prepare event budgets for special programming outside the normal schedule.
• Ensure profitability by maintaining at least a 30% profit margin, reducing expenses, and maximizing ticket sales.
• Handle additional projects and duties as business needs arise.

Requirements

• 5+ years of talent buying, music booking, or event industry experience.
• Passion for live music, deep in-market connections, and significant industry experience.
• Extensive network of industry contacts, including artists, managers, and agents.
• Deep knowledge of the local music scene and trends.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills (written and verbal).
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with impeccable organizational skills.
• High proficiency in MS Office (Outlook, Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
• Flexible schedule, including nights, weekends, and travel as needed.

About Us

City Winery blends wine, food, and live entertainment to create a dynamic and unique workplace. Since 2008, we’ve delivered unforgettable experiences through live performances, award-winning wines, and delectable cuisine. Founded by music industry veteran Michael Dorf, City Winery is a haven for community and creativity, where hospitality is a way of life. We offer world-class music venues, sustainably produced wines (rated 90+ points), and top-tier events.