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Lifelong

Associate Director of Special Events

Lifelong, Seattle, Washington, us, 98127

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Associate Director of Special Events

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Position Overview Lifelong is a community health organization on a mission to make health and food accessible. We remove barriers to health with relentless compassion so that no one faces illness and injustice alone. For 40 years, Lifelong has fought health inequities so that everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Our comprehensive services include food and nutrition, healthcare navigation, aging and disability support, and connection to housing and other vital resources. The Associate Director of Special Events plays a vital role in advancing Lifelong’s mission by planning, managing, and executing multiple successful special fundraising events that engage current and potential supporters and funders, cultivate donor relationships, and increase revenue. The ideal candidate has exquisite taste and is a dynamic, highly organized, and creative individual with a proven track record in special event design, production, logistics, talent booking and management (performers, hosts, influencers), and vendor negotiation. Reporting to the Vice President of External Relations, this key agency leader works to maintain and expand Lifelong’s strength and sustainability and collaborate closely with development, marketing, communications, PR, program leadership, and external partners.

Responsibilities

Oversee the planning, design, and execution of events of varying scales, from elevated bespoke intimate gatherings to large-scale productions

Ensure event execution reflects the quality, integrity, and mission of Lifelong events and creates memorable experiences

Lead large team meetings with internal stakeholders, including the CEO, to ensure events remain on schedule, align with objectives, and meet key performance indicators

Identify appropriate third-party vendors and negotiate vendor proposals (i.e., entertainment, venue, caterers, lighting, sound, décor, etc.)

Carefully manage event financials in adherence to the designated budget and submit timely payments

Manage relationships with special events consultants, producers, and vendors, and develop relationships with in-kind partners to find cost savings and enhance event experiences

Stay ahead of industry trends to drive innovation and continually elevate the creativity and impact of Lifelong’s event offerings

Serve as Event Lead for sponsorship ideation, collaborating closely with marketing and development colleagues to develop customized sponsorship opportunities aligned with Lifelong’s mission and brand to enhance overall event experience and value

Collaborate with marketing, PR, and communications to promote events and drive attendance, ensuring P&L goals are clearly identified and achieved

Require evening and weekend work; travel as needed

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree and a minimum of seven years of experience in events management and production, or a combination of related education and work experience

Experience planning nonprofit events, particularly in the arts, culture, or health sector, is desired

Proven track record in the planning and execution of a major fundraising event with at least 500 guests

Demonstrated success raising a minimum of $1 million through a single major fundraising event

Strong understanding of philanthropic trends and best practices in fundraising is desired

Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including grant writing and public speaking

Demonstrated leadership skills and experience managing a team

Proficiency in using fundraising software, donor databases, and Microsoft Office Suite

Ability to build and maintain relationships with donors, board members, and other stakeholders

Strong organizational skills and attention to detail

Passion for Lifelong’s mission and a commitment to ethical fundraising practices

Portfolio or Event Documentation If you have a portfolio showcasing your event work, please share a link or attachment in the application materials. If you do not have a formal portfolio, you may instead upload or link to a few examples such as photos, event programs, or other materials that represent events you have managed or contributed to. These samples are not a formal requirement and will not be used as the sole basis for evaluation.

Benefits

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits

Generous vacation (3 weeks in your first year), sick leave, and 2 personal days a year

401(k) match

Flexible spending accounts

Life insurance options

Long-term disability

Mass transit subsidy

15 paid holidays per year

Work Environment

This position operates in a professional office environment and routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, and printers. The role requires regular interaction with colleagues, leadership, and external stakeholders. The position may involve occasional evening or weekend work to support organizational activities or events, as well as limited travel as needed.

Any offer of employment is contingent upon passing a criminal background check. Some programs may require additional background checks or frequency.

About Lifelong Lifelong is a community health organization committed to removing barriers to health with relentless compassion so that no one faces illness and injustice alone. We lead with heart. For 40 years, Lifelong has fought health inequities so that everyone can have the opportunity to thrive. Our comprehensive services include food and nutrition, healthcare navigation, aging and disability support, and connection to housing and other vital resources.

EEO Statement Lifelong is committed to creating an accessible, supportive environment and experience that recognizes diversity and cultural competence as integral components of what we do. We are an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.

Seniority Level Mid‑Senior level

Employment Type Full Time

Salary Range $80,833 – $100,000 per year

Location Georgetown neighborhood of Seattle, Washington (onsite required at least three days per week, Tuesday – Thursday)

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