JOB DESCRIPTION: Special Events Manager

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Position Description:

The Special Events Manager is responsible for reaching fundraising goals through special events, managing event committees and boards, and executing special event logistics. This position manages all aspects of the production of the Middle Market Open (MMO) Golf Tournament, NKFI Golf Classic and endurance events, including, but not limited, to Chicago Marathon. The goal of these events is to raise funds to support the programs and initiatives of the National Kidney Foundation of Illinois as well as expand the awareness of and involvement in the organization and its mission. The Special Events Manager reports to the Senior Director of Development.

 

We are looking for a passionate, innovative-thinker who can creatively engage potential new donors and partners, work in partnership with internal and external teams and is accomplished in project management with a primary focus on golf tournaments. Success in this role demands exceptional strategic and organizational abilities coupled with superb interpersonal and communications skills, multi-tasking skills, excellent time-management and a highly developed collaborative nature.

 

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Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Oversee/manage Special Events Coordinator staff

• Increase revenue of and grow participation in all assigned events

• In conjunction with the Special Events Coordinator, this position manages the MMO Golf Tournament Board and their event, the NKFI Golf Classic and endurance events.

• Work collaboratively with Board, staff and volunteers to cultivate donors and solicit individual and corporate contributions

• Recruit, manage and support board members, committees and event related volunteers

• Procure donations, silent auction items, and in-kind services

• In conjunction with event chairs, participate in and/or lead event-related meetings

• In conjunction with Senior Director of Development, develop and implement annual plan for assigned events, including goals, objectives, follow up and evaluation

• Work with Director of Marketing and Communications on event promotion to target audiences and increase participation

• Responsible for research, site visits, selection of and contract negotiations with third-party vendors

• Serve as a strong representative of the National Kidney Foundation of Illinois, its work, mission, programs and services

• Evening and weekend work required as needed, occasional travel to Chicago suburbs for meetings as needed

• Other duties as assigned

 
Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree required, with 2-4 years of relevant fundraising/business/event management experience

• Experience managing large scale golf event logistics, including auction and auction item procurement and planning committee management.

• Experience soliciting and securing donations from corporations, foundations and individuals

• Volunteer management experience, including ability to organize, motivate, and recruit committee members

• Experience with managing the selection, contract negotiation, invoicing and payment for partners and vendors, including venues, food and beverage, mobile bidding, A/V, photography/videography and experience/entertainment

• Oversee and execute on-site event operations and logistics, including food and beverage, vendor/volunteer/staff management, venue set-up and facilitation of auctions and raffles

• Familiarity with both marketing and growing large scale golf events

• Strong verbal and written communication skills; must be comfortable and able to present in front of large groups

• Ability to interface with all levels of Board, staff and volunteers

• Ability to work and make sound decisions independently and take initiative to work with a team

• High capacity to manage, assess value and importance, and prioritize multiple tasks and activities

• Ability to meet deadlines and work with tremendous attention to detail

• Proficient in building strong relationships, demonstrating initiative and taking responsibility

• Must be proficient working with and developing budgets, tracking income and expenses and meeting financial goals

• Proficient in Microsoft Office and donor management systems (Donor Perfect, preferred)

• Must have a valid driver’s license

• Must be able to lift at least 35 pounds

 

To apply, please send cover letter and resume to Heidi Merritt at hmerritt @nkfi.org. No phone inquiries, please.

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