Events Assistant Manager

Rizzoli International began its publishing operation in 1974 and has become a leader in the fashion, interior design, culinary, art, architecture, and photography fields. Rizzoli Universe—formerly Universe Publishing—was added in 1990 and publishes books, decks, and calendars in a range of subjects including popular culture, art, photography, humor, gaming, cooking, craft, interior design, sports, music, entertainment, street culture, LGBTQIA, counterculture, and travel. Rizzoli produces its museum and exhibitions publishing under the imprint Rizzoli Electa, in collaboration with leading Italian book publisher and sister company Mondadori Electa. Acquired in 2024, Chelsea Green Publishing is at the forefront of promoting sustainable practices; focusing on organic and regenerative farming and gardening; nature and environment; healthy food; local economies and resilient communities; and integrative health and wellness.

In addition to our publishing house, the company maintains the Rizzoli Bookstore—widely considered one of the foremost independent booksellers in America—which specializes in literature, photography, architecture, interior design, culinary, and the fine and applied arts. The bookstore also stocks a selection of Italian, French and Spanish-language fiction and non-fiction literature, a unique find in New York City, located in the trend-setting NOMAD neighborhood.

We are seeking an Events Assistant Manager with a minimum of two years' experience in event management to lead and oversee a vibrant, high-profile cultural programming calendar at our bookstore. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong written and oral communication skills, proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, and familiarity with a range of social media platforms. This role requires creativity, organizational excellence, and flexibility, along with a deep passion for literature, the arts, and community engagement. The position is on-site in New York City, five days a week.

Key Responsibilities:

• Plan, organize, and execute a wide range of in-store cultural events, including author book launches, readings, panel discussions, and music concerts.
• Manage customer outreach through website updates, blog posts, newsletters, and promotional materials for events.
• Maintain an active presence on the sales floor, engaging with customers and demonstrating a strong knowledge of inventory.
• Develop and maintain relationships with community organizations, businesses, and corporate partners for event collaborations and special sales opportunities.
• Generate revenue through event ticketing, sponsored lecture series, seasonal catalog advertising, and venue rentals.
• Oversee the creation and coordination of window displays, including in-house designs, publisher-provided materials, and collaborations with guest curators.
• Identify and engage corporate partners for paid promotional opportunities.
• Coordinate and manage occasional off-site events.

• Proven experience in event planning, publicity, or promotions required (book or cultural programming experience a plus)
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong presentation and interpersonal abilities
• Proficiency with social media platforms and online marketing tools
• Interest in and familiarity with literature, publishing, and the arts
• Strong organizational and multitasking skills
• Computer literacy and comfort with standard office and marketing tools (Knowledge of Adobe Suite is a required)

Salary: $45k-$50k depending on experience 

Benefits:

• Medical
• dental
• 401k