Director National Special Events, Galas & Gatherings

Job Title

Director National Special Events, Galas & Gatherings

Department

Development & Community Giving

Classification

Grade 8: Range $81,000.00 - $105,000.00

FLSA Status

Exempt | Full Time

Supervisor (title)

Sr. Director, National Special Events

Location

Remote

As a non-profit health organization, the Arthritis Foundation is committed to putting the health and safety of our team members and constituents first. In order to provide and maintain a workplace that is free of known hazards, we have adopted a Mandatory Vaccination Policy. All employees of the Arthritis Foundation are required to provide proof of the COVID-19 vaccination prior to employment unless a reasonable accommodation is approved.

POSITION SUMMARY (Basic purpose or primary function of job)

The Director, National Special Events - Galas & Gatherings is part of an integrated team that aligns with field staff, volunteer leadership, mission execution, and revenue generation to expand and empower individuals nationwide to boldly address arthritis through living better lives and funding cures boldly. The Director, National Special Events - Galas & Gatherings is responsible for the overall direction and management of gala, sporting, gatherings, mission-aligned community events, and innovative fundraising events, ensuring its seamless integration within the team and that resources and strategy are deployed in collaboration with key stakeholders to build a nationwide network of volunteers, supported by highly trained foundation experts whom executive special events to achieve maximum success in fundraising for the Arthritis Foundation priorities.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES (Principal responsibilities or job duties)

Oversee all national aspects of the special event fundraising campaigns by developing strategically executed gala, sporting, gathering, mission-aligned community events, and innovative fundraising opportunities. A combined fundraising portfolio of $5.2M gross with ambitions to reach $6.1M gross revenue by 2026 and incremental growth moving forward.

In collaboration with key stakeholders across the organization, develop a three-year strategic vision and plan for Special Event campaigns, including fundraising goals, budget recommendations, vendor relationships, volunteer leadership structure and goals, and timelines.

Direct the implementation and execution of special event campaigns and national strategies focusing on fundraising, event experience, sponsors, and volunteer committees.

In partnership with the Sr. Director, National Special Events - Galas & Gatherings, lead national special event campaign committees to develop recruitment, activation, and succession pipelines.

Develop resources to support staff and volunteers, including committee guides, timelines, event experience, working with auctioneers, and support materials.

Be an expert in fundraising tools such as event fundraising websites.

Enhance special event campaigns’ overall event experience, including brand consistency, mission funding, and revenue enhancers.

Stay informed and keep the organization’s leadership apprised of industry trends and emerging strategies within fundraising.

Develop and implement national campaign strategies, including standards of excellence, assessment of year-round fundraising plans, and market benchmarks and KPIs.

Provide training and player-coach support to ensure staff and volunteers understand and implement fundraising strategies.

Communicate campaign strategies, develop collateral, identify areas of opportunity, and troubleshoot challenges to ensure successful event execution and campaigns meet or exceed revenue goals.

Coach market staff and volunteers; help them stay on track, reach goals, and best communicate with their sponsors and fundraisers.

Manage Special Event campaigns, as assigned, such as vetting vendors, developing surveys, and piloting new initiatives.

Produce financial growth by focusing on individual philanthropy opportunities and corporate engagement.

Develop effective internal partnerships to advance events and support the Foundation’s mission.

Annually grow the number of volunteer-led DIY fundraisers, live streaming activities, and Facebook challenge fundraising activities. Identify and recruit supporters, influencers, communities, and potential partners for livestream opportunities.

Create and prepare internal and external communications, including fundraising document production and donor correspondence.

Support live streaming platforms like Tiltify by providing entry-level technical support and fundraising guidance.

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE & EDUCATION

5 – 7 years of related experience.

National fundraising campaigns, proven track record in fundraising events, marketing, and PR experience.

Proven capability of working with various leadership styles in a matrixed organization and externally with volunteers and corporate partners.

Demonstrated ability to think strategically, generate revenue, and analyze data to drive results.

Demonstrated organizational, project management, and relationship-building skills.

Bachelor’s or master’s level is appropriate (Communications, nonprofit management, marketing/PR)

Proficiency in MS Office suite.

Expertise in OneCause and DonorDrive fundraising platforms.

Knowledge of Salesforce CRM.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS AND TIME ALLOCATIONS

Strategic planning, metrics, and innovation of Special Event campaigns nationwide events.

40%

Market volunteer and staff support and collaboration in creating resources, best practices, and training. Including technology, brand resources, and procurement.

50%

Focus on Innovative Fundraising

10%

Total

100%.