Special Events Manager

PURPOSE: The planning, management and effective execution of high-level special events with an emphasis on event strategy, creativity, fundraising, guest experience and donor stewardship.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
PROJECT MANAGER
- Serves as project leader on all events
- Develops event fundraising strategies and works to grow revenue
- Manages event logistics
- Provides onsite event management
- Manages relationships with vendors and negotiates contracts
- Manages event budgets and timelines
- Coordinates the design, editing and production of event-related materials; invitations, letters, and programs
- Oversees the production of marketing materials, including brochures, e-blasts and day-of event collateral
- Secures in-kind donations, and auction items
- Secures corporate funding and cultivates corporate relationships
- Supervises Events and Marketing Associate
- Works closely and collaboratively with San Francisco Opera Guild Board of Directors and San Francisco Opera staff
- Acts as an ambassador for the organization in all interactions with patrons, vendors, Board of Directors and staff
- Initiates and leads event committee meetings

SECONDARY FUNCTIONS:
- Organizes and maintains comprehensive files for each event.
- Performs other job-related duties as assigned

EQUIPMENT OR MACHINES, IF ANY, THAT MUST BE OPERATED TO PERFORM THE POSITION ACCEPTABLY: Computer, printer, copier, telephone and other general office equipment and machines

WORKING CONDITIONS: Indoor with temperature and noise levels typical of this environment

EDUCATION:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.

EXPERIENCE:
- A minimum three (3) years of progressive experience in a high-level, high-volume event environment including customer service and administrative skills.

SKILLS & REQUIREMENTS:
- Knowledge of practices and principles of fundraising
- Knowledge of events management
- Knowledge of general office practices and procedures, including efficient recordkeeping
- Experience in training and supervising director reports, interns and volunteers
- Creative and original thinker and problem solver
- Ability to sustain productivity and accuracy under pressure
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, rapidly changing environment
- Ability to manage multiple, competing priorities successfully
- Ability to produce accurate work products
- Ability to work independently; prioritize tasks; and exercise good judgment and initiative
- Ability to complete projects with a high degree of accuracy, detail and timeliness
- Outstanding project management and organizational skills, with a high-level attention to detail
- Outstanding interpersonal skills including the ability to work well with a wide range of people - Board of Directors, Executive staff, donors and event patrons - in a diplomatic, professional, confidential and tactful manner
- Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing
- Comfortable with public speaking
- Ability to supervise staff and volunteers with a positive, teams-oriented attitude
- Ability to work evenings and weekends as dictated by event schedules
- Proficiency with technology platforms: Microsoft Office and event databases; Adobe Creative Suite skills desired
- Must perform the functions of the position in a safe manner
- Ability to lift up to 35 lbs.