Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Los Angeles
Manager of Special Events
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, United States, 90079
Join to apply for the
Manager of Special Events
role at
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Los Angeles Position Overview
Reporting to the Director of Development, the Manager of Special Events leads the revenue generation, planning, execution, evaluation and stewardship of high-impact fundraising events that advance BBBSLA's mission and revenue goals. In collaboration with staff, Board members and volunteer leaders, this role will plan and implement two to three signature events, a rolling online auction, and multiple smaller-scale events per year by building strong working relationships with internal and external partners, volunteers, and vendors. A successful candidate will strive to maximize philanthropic support and elevate the event experience for current and potential donors (individuals, corporations, foundations) by identifying additional fundraising opportunities, cost saving measures, and mission-engagement. In addition, this role works directly with high-level volunteer fundraisers to develop and execute plans to support the organization through event honoree campaigns, peer-to-peer fundraising, and sponsorship sales efforts. This is a full-time, benefits eligible, hybrid work position with a mix of virtual and in-office work. The position also requires travel for special events and face-to-face meetings with event honorees, volunteers, donors, corporate leaders, Board members, and vendors. Essential Job Activities And Responsibilities
Achieve revenue goals across BBBSLA's portfolio of events, including signature events, third-party events, peer-to-peer campaigns, and online auctions. Partner with the Director of Development and Development team to set realistic revenue targets, identify growth opportunities, and implement strategies that maximize fundraising and minimize expenses. Work with fundraising event honorees and peer-to-peer fundraising participants to maximize their impact on the mission of BBBSLA. Lead solicitation, development, and stewardship of auction items and packages; oversee donor recognition and cultivation tied to auction activities. Develop sponsorship pricing, benefits, and activation opportunities for all events. Work closely with donor relationship managers and Development staff to identify potential event sponsors or increased partnership opportunities via special events. Introduce and implement new revenue-generating opportunities to diversify income streams. Own and manage BBBSLA's Charity Buzz program, including idea generation, vendor relationship management, outreach coordination, auction package development and descriptions, stewardship of auction donors and board influencers, accurate Salesforce revenue tracking and crediting, and collaboration with Marketing on promotion and visibility. Create new fundraising revenue growth opportunities and strengthen current ones. Event Leadership & Execution
Lead all aspects of BBBSLA's fundraising events, from concept to execution, including logistics, budget management, production timelines, run-of-show scripting, awards creation, and on-site coordination. Serve as lead manager for signature events, overseeing honoree engagement, program development, venue research, vendor management, event software, guest relations, and real-time fundraising tracking. Manage the agency's relationship with third-party production and logistics vendors, venues, and contractors to ensure seamless execution, cost savings, and high production value. Oversee creation of event-related materials, including signage, presentations, invitations, sponsorship decks, and award recognition, working closely with the Marketing team and design vendors. Coordinate logistics for event communications and donor outreach/cultivation through electronic and printed mailings to send in a timely manner. Keep appropriate Board members, volunteer leaders and staff up to date on progress and support needs. Donor, Sponsor, & Volunteer Engagement
Elevate the event experience for current and potential donors by identifying meaningful mission-engagement opportunities and creating memorable event moments. In partnership with the Director of Development, support and guide high-level honorees, board members, and peer-to-peer fundraisers by providing tools, education, and personalized plans to maximize their fundraising impact. Collaborate with donor relationship managers and Development staff to identify and cultivate new sponsors, steward current supporters, and ensure donor engagement best practices. Coordinate and execute Board and donor participation in events through sponsorships, in-kind donations, auction donations, and event participation. In partnership with the Director of Development, support Gala and Golf Classic Committees, including recruitment, stewardship, meeting facilitation, and accountability for fundraising outcomes. Serve as volunteer coordinator for fundraising and stewardship events, managing recruitment, training, and the on-site experience. Event Innovation & Mission Integration
Research fundraising and event trends to ensure BBBSLA events remain competitive, engaging, and mission-driven within the Los Angeles philanthropic landscape. Infuse events with mission-based storytelling and experiential opportunities to deepen donor connections with BBBSLA's impact. Develop post-event communications and stewardship plans in collaboration with Corporate and Individual Donor Leads to strengthen long-term engagement. Data, Systems, & Compliance
Maintain accurate event records in Salesforce and ensure timely entry of sponsorships, donations, and auction revenue. Manage websites and on-site technology needs for all events. Ensure compliance with IRS regulations and nonprofit fundraising guidelines related to sponsorships, goods and services, raffles/gaming, auctions, and other event activities. Ensure all marketing recognition and sponsorship benefits are delivered according to agreements, with support from the Marketing team. Qualifications & Experience
Bachelor's degree required. Minimum 5 years of progressively responsible experience in nonprofit fundraising, event management, or a related development role. Proven track record in planning and executing high-impact fundraising events, including revenue achievement, budget oversight, sponsor cultivation, and donor engagement. Exceptional interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills; confident presenter with the ability to inspire diverse audiences. Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities, adapt quickly, and problem-solve with a solutions-focused mindset. Demonstrated creativity and innovation in event design, fundraising strategies, and donor engagement. Ability to manage multiple priorities and maintain a solution-based mindset. Skilled in tracking, analyzing, and reporting success metrics to inform strategy and decision-making. Knowledge of nonprofit best practices, fundraising compliance, and current trends in special events and philanthropy. Advanced proficiency with MS Office and experience using donor databases/CRM platforms (Salesforce preferred). Professional, proactive, and collaborative team player with a positive attitude, high energy, and emotional maturity. Willingness to travel locally and occasionally nationally for events and meetings; valid driver's license required. A sense of humor and the ability to bring levity and warmth to a fast-paced environment. Equal Employment Opportunity
BBBSLA is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified individuals. Employment decisions are based on organizational needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, sex, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital or domestic partnership status, military or veteran status, family or parental status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law. Americans With Disabilities Act
BBBSLA is committed to complying with all applicable provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and state disability laws. Applicants and employees who require a reasonable accommodation to perform the essential functions of their job are encouraged to notify the organization. Reasonable accommodations will be determined on a case-by-case basis, consistent with applicable law. Compensation, Hours And Benefits
Benefits include 21 days paid PTO, 14 paid holidays, comprehensive health plans covering 100% of the employee cost of medical, dental and vision insurance, as well as STD, LTD, life insurance and an employee assistance program. Optional pet insurance, critical care, and flexible spending accounts. Eligible for 403(b) retirement plan(s) immediately, with salary matching benefits (up to 4% of salary) after one year of service. Salary: $68000 - $75000 per year
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Manager of Special Events
role at
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Los Angeles Position Overview
Reporting to the Director of Development, the Manager of Special Events leads the revenue generation, planning, execution, evaluation and stewardship of high-impact fundraising events that advance BBBSLA's mission and revenue goals. In collaboration with staff, Board members and volunteer leaders, this role will plan and implement two to three signature events, a rolling online auction, and multiple smaller-scale events per year by building strong working relationships with internal and external partners, volunteers, and vendors. A successful candidate will strive to maximize philanthropic support and elevate the event experience for current and potential donors (individuals, corporations, foundations) by identifying additional fundraising opportunities, cost saving measures, and mission-engagement. In addition, this role works directly with high-level volunteer fundraisers to develop and execute plans to support the organization through event honoree campaigns, peer-to-peer fundraising, and sponsorship sales efforts. This is a full-time, benefits eligible, hybrid work position with a mix of virtual and in-office work. The position also requires travel for special events and face-to-face meetings with event honorees, volunteers, donors, corporate leaders, Board members, and vendors. Essential Job Activities And Responsibilities
Achieve revenue goals across BBBSLA's portfolio of events, including signature events, third-party events, peer-to-peer campaigns, and online auctions. Partner with the Director of Development and Development team to set realistic revenue targets, identify growth opportunities, and implement strategies that maximize fundraising and minimize expenses. Work with fundraising event honorees and peer-to-peer fundraising participants to maximize their impact on the mission of BBBSLA. Lead solicitation, development, and stewardship of auction items and packages; oversee donor recognition and cultivation tied to auction activities. Develop sponsorship pricing, benefits, and activation opportunities for all events. Work closely with donor relationship managers and Development staff to identify potential event sponsors or increased partnership opportunities via special events. Introduce and implement new revenue-generating opportunities to diversify income streams. Own and manage BBBSLA's Charity Buzz program, including idea generation, vendor relationship management, outreach coordination, auction package development and descriptions, stewardship of auction donors and board influencers, accurate Salesforce revenue tracking and crediting, and collaboration with Marketing on promotion and visibility. Create new fundraising revenue growth opportunities and strengthen current ones. Event Leadership & Execution
Lead all aspects of BBBSLA's fundraising events, from concept to execution, including logistics, budget management, production timelines, run-of-show scripting, awards creation, and on-site coordination. Serve as lead manager for signature events, overseeing honoree engagement, program development, venue research, vendor management, event software, guest relations, and real-time fundraising tracking. Manage the agency's relationship with third-party production and logistics vendors, venues, and contractors to ensure seamless execution, cost savings, and high production value. Oversee creation of event-related materials, including signage, presentations, invitations, sponsorship decks, and award recognition, working closely with the Marketing team and design vendors. Coordinate logistics for event communications and donor outreach/cultivation through electronic and printed mailings to send in a timely manner. Keep appropriate Board members, volunteer leaders and staff up to date on progress and support needs. Donor, Sponsor, & Volunteer Engagement
Elevate the event experience for current and potential donors by identifying meaningful mission-engagement opportunities and creating memorable event moments. In partnership with the Director of Development, support and guide high-level honorees, board members, and peer-to-peer fundraisers by providing tools, education, and personalized plans to maximize their fundraising impact. Collaborate with donor relationship managers and Development staff to identify and cultivate new sponsors, steward current supporters, and ensure donor engagement best practices. Coordinate and execute Board and donor participation in events through sponsorships, in-kind donations, auction donations, and event participation. In partnership with the Director of Development, support Gala and Golf Classic Committees, including recruitment, stewardship, meeting facilitation, and accountability for fundraising outcomes. Serve as volunteer coordinator for fundraising and stewardship events, managing recruitment, training, and the on-site experience. Event Innovation & Mission Integration
Research fundraising and event trends to ensure BBBSLA events remain competitive, engaging, and mission-driven within the Los Angeles philanthropic landscape. Infuse events with mission-based storytelling and experiential opportunities to deepen donor connections with BBBSLA's impact. Develop post-event communications and stewardship plans in collaboration with Corporate and Individual Donor Leads to strengthen long-term engagement. Data, Systems, & Compliance
Maintain accurate event records in Salesforce and ensure timely entry of sponsorships, donations, and auction revenue. Manage websites and on-site technology needs for all events. Ensure compliance with IRS regulations and nonprofit fundraising guidelines related to sponsorships, goods and services, raffles/gaming, auctions, and other event activities. Ensure all marketing recognition and sponsorship benefits are delivered according to agreements, with support from the Marketing team. Qualifications & Experience
Bachelor's degree required. Minimum 5 years of progressively responsible experience in nonprofit fundraising, event management, or a related development role. Proven track record in planning and executing high-impact fundraising events, including revenue achievement, budget oversight, sponsor cultivation, and donor engagement. Exceptional interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills; confident presenter with the ability to inspire diverse audiences. Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities, adapt quickly, and problem-solve with a solutions-focused mindset. Demonstrated creativity and innovation in event design, fundraising strategies, and donor engagement. Ability to manage multiple priorities and maintain a solution-based mindset. Skilled in tracking, analyzing, and reporting success metrics to inform strategy and decision-making. Knowledge of nonprofit best practices, fundraising compliance, and current trends in special events and philanthropy. Advanced proficiency with MS Office and experience using donor databases/CRM platforms (Salesforce preferred). Professional, proactive, and collaborative team player with a positive attitude, high energy, and emotional maturity. Willingness to travel locally and occasionally nationally for events and meetings; valid driver's license required. A sense of humor and the ability to bring levity and warmth to a fast-paced environment. Equal Employment Opportunity
BBBSLA is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified individuals. Employment decisions are based on organizational needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, sex, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital or domestic partnership status, military or veteran status, family or parental status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law. Americans With Disabilities Act
BBBSLA is committed to complying with all applicable provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and state disability laws. Applicants and employees who require a reasonable accommodation to perform the essential functions of their job are encouraged to notify the organization. Reasonable accommodations will be determined on a case-by-case basis, consistent with applicable law. Compensation, Hours And Benefits
Benefits include 21 days paid PTO, 14 paid holidays, comprehensive health plans covering 100% of the employee cost of medical, dental and vision insurance, as well as STD, LTD, life insurance and an employee assistance program. Optional pet insurance, critical care, and flexible spending accounts. Eligible for 403(b) retirement plan(s) immediately, with salary matching benefits (up to 4% of salary) after one year of service. Salary: $68000 - $75000 per year
#J-18808-Ljbffr