Talent Buyer

Mission:  The Auditorium, an Illinois not-for-profit organization, is committed to presenting the finest in international, cultural, community, and educational programming to Chicago and to the continued restoration and preservation of the National Historic Landmark Auditorium.

Vision Statement:  The Auditorium is the Theatre for the People because it aims to make the arts accessible to all, by bringing people from all across the city together to celebrate the performing arts and continuing to present and produce programming that reflects the rich diversity of the great city of Chicago.

Position Summary

The Talent Buyer will lead the engagement of live events and concerts. The Talent Buyer will ensure the highest quality experience for Agents, Artists & Promoters working with The Auditorium as well as have extensive knowledge about the entertainment industry. The Talent Buyer will work with all departments in the organization including Finance, Marketing, Development, Production and Operations.

The ideal applicant will be passionate about the arts and live entertainment while making it a top priority to ensure a seamless experience for the artist.

Major Areas of Responsibility/Essential Function

• Identify, source and secure events with agents, artists and artist managers and promoters. Respond, track and assess the viability of inquiries and potential opportunities, including cold calls. Maintain and grow existing relations and develop new business. Establish and maintain relationships with artist, managers and agents.
• Strive to establish entertainment that attracts a new population throughout the South Loop as well as new programming that the Auditorium controls.
• Manage booking calendar via Prism software system. Track all bookings from hold request to load-out.
• Develop offer sheets encompassing all revenue and expense. Oversee and maintain budget accuracy from cost estimates through final settlement.
• Serve as a liaison between agents/artists/promoters and internal teams. Set expectations, coordinate deliverables, handle approvals, contract prep, execution, and payment.
• Oversee the booking staff and the division of duties to ensure all booking responsibilities are handled efficiently and accurately including various event rentals.
• Conduct venue walkthroughs with prospective and existing clients.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities required:

Minimum educational requirement of a bachelor’s degree. At least 5-7 years of experience with an ability to work in a competitive marketplace. At least 3 years of supervising experience. Must possess excellent management skills, professional written and verbal skills, and organizational skills. Experience working with Prism, strongly preferred.