Director of Special Events

Description

The Catholic Education Foundation (CEF) transforms the lives of children and their families by providing access to education for at-risk students at the lowest poverty levels. The CEF currently provides over $5 million in financial-assistance scholarships to nearly 1,900 local children who qualify for free and reduced lunches. The Director of Special Events is responsible for coordinating and fundraising for a gala that raises over $3 million and attracts over 1,300 guests. This position is full-time, will average 40 hours per week, with the opportunity for a flexible work schedule. This position is hybrid, with work completed in the office and remotely.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Recruit, train and lead volunteer committee members to meet event fundraising, attendance and program goals.
• Coordinate successful Patrons gatherings leading up to the event.
• Sell tables and secure sponsorships.
• Develop and implement planning strategies for gala including fundraising, logistics and marketing.
• Coordinate committee meetings with volunteer leaders and Executive Director.
• Track and report on event progress.
• Assist with board and staff meetings.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Verbal and written communication skills including with executive level individuals.
• Polished interpersonal skills (sales, presentation) in group and individual settings.
• Highly organized in managing tasks and projects; detail oriented. 
• Build and maintain constructive and collaborative relationships.
• Ability to speak authentically about the benefits of Catholic education. 

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Non-Profit Administration or related field is preferred. 
• Minimum of five (5) years of direct professional fundraising experience or corporate sales is required.
• Experience raising large donations and securing sponsorships.
• Previous experience working with and managing volunteer leaders. 
• Intermediate skill level in MS Office, including Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
• Previous experience with donor database software is preferred. 
• Practicing Catholic in good standing is preferred. 

Note: All employees are required to consent to a background check, commit to our Code of Conduct and Statement of Foundational Principles as they Relate to Employment policies and complete Safe Environment training before hiring.
 

The Catholic Education Foundation offers a comprehensive health and welfare benefits plan including medical, dental and vision, a 401k plan that includes matching contributions, as well as generous paid time off policies such as vacation, sick leave and paid holidays.