Summary
The exact nature of a Box Office Manager differs according to the type and size of the box office. Generally, they are responsible for overseeing ticket prices, sales, orders, arrangements, schedules and subscriptions of the box office. They maintain all financial records; ensure all tickets arrive at the venue on time, and that the staff provides excellent customer service.
Duties
The Box Office Manager is responsible for all aspects of ticket sales. They schedule large groups visiting the box office; arrange schedules for special staff operations; and work with the financial department to ensure all daily ticket sales and money brought in are balanced; otherwise, they may work with the staff to find out reasons for discrepancies and provide a solution for it. They are also the ones who hire, train, and supervise all staff, making sure they are knowledgeable in operating the latest software, using the cash register, handling credit card payments and other tasks related to running a box office. In some cases, it is also the task of box office managers to come up with daily, weekly, and monthly financial statements, and accounting reports. They are also the ones assisting and evaluating the overall effectiveness of their marketing programs and campaigns.
Education and Training Requirements
Depending on the size of the box office, the minimum educational requirement is usually a bachelor’s degree in Business Management, Business Administration, Technical Management, or any related field and a year of related experience. Large box offices prefer candidates with a master’s degree in any business related field and at least three to five years of experience in a similar working environment.
Knowledge and Skills Requirements
Most of a Box Office Manager’s job requires communicating with promoters, ticketing personnel, and patrons so it is very important for them to have excellent communication and interpersonal skills. They must be resourceful, innovative, entrepreneurial, committed and a forward-thinker. They should be highly organized and is able to motivate his staff. Knowledge in sales, computer operation and other related software such as a computerized box office system, MS Word, MS Excel, MS Outlook, and MS Access is also necessary.
Working Conditions
The job often requires a flexible schedule, reporting for work on evenings, weekends, and holidays. Hand use is regularly required to handle and count coins and currency. It may also be necessary to climb stairs and walk long distances; and they may have to do some lifting, transporting, and installing equipment required in ticket sales, including ticket printers which may weigh up to 50lbs. Work hours is usually 40 hours per week.
Salary
The median salary of a Box Office Manager is $50,000 per year. This varies greatly due to the size of the box office, location, type of box office, experience, and benefits. Common health benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance; life insurance; flexible spending program; and paid vacations.
