Special Events Manager

Job Title: Special Events Manager

Position Summary:
The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research ("the Foundation") is seeking top talent for its Special Events Manager position.  Reporting to the Senior Manager of Special Events, this position plays a vital role in contributing to the high-quality production of Foundation events across business units. This includes all aspects of event support across a portfolio of special events as well as coordinating logistics for leadership and business unit retreats, the all-staff summit, and other events as needed.   

This is a hybrid-flex position that will require in-person attendance at The Michael J. Fox Foundation’s headquarters in New York City. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist team with planning and executing key elements of a portfolio of special events including collateral creation, website development, on-site event support, event invoicing and reconciliation 

• Support the all-staff summit, leadership and business unit retreats, as needed, with vendor sourcing, contract negotiations, scheduling, travel and logistics 

• Serve as a key contributor in the project management of special events, providing strategic support and coordination to assist the event leads in planning, execution, and post‑event follow‑up. 

• Assist in mailing list reviews when necessary 

• Partner with the special events data quality specialist where necessary 

• Communicate with attendees and donors to collect appropriate details including guest information 

• Coordinate and execute travel planning and itineraries for VIPs and staff 

• Assist the Community Fundraising & Events department and campaign team with other events and opportunities that arise, as needed 

Qualifications & Skills:

• Demonstrated experience in event logistics, execution, and stakeholder engagement for high-level events with 500+ in attendance  

• Comfortable with data and analytics for special events and fundraising purposes, decision-making deftness, and the ability to problem-solve in a dynamic environment  

• Ability to take initiative, incredible attention to detail, and a strong interest in planning and executing first-rate events  

• Possess excellent time management, organization skills 

• Able to work independently and as part of a team in a collaborative environment  

• Enthusiasm for being hands-on with all aspects of event preparation and logistics   

• Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills  


• Proficient in database management and MS Office (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint)   

How to Apply: 
Interested candidates should submit a resume and thoughtful cover letter describing through examples, their specific qualifications and interest in the position. If you think that your skills are transferable and can add value to this role, please apply. Applicants who best match the position’s needs will be contacted. 

 
About Us: 
The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research was founded in 2000 with one clear objective: accelerating meaningful therapeutic advances and, ultimately, a cure for Parkinson’s disease (PD). The Foundation applies extraordinary scientific, business and media assets to this singular focus—thus creating a unique and dynamic organization. Since inception, MJFF has quickly grown into the largest nonprofit funder of Parkinson’s disease research, having funded over $2 billion in research projects in both academic and industry labs worldwide. 

Visit www.michaeljfox.org for more information. 

 
  Research has shown that people from marginalized communities apply to roles only when they meet 100% of the job requirements. If you think that your skills are transferable and can add value to this role, and you are someone who will contribute to our efforts to build and support a diverse, equitable and inclusive workforce, we strongly encourage you to apply.