National Director – Distinguished Events

Role Overview

• Reporting to the Senior Director, Field Development, this pivotal role is responsible for enterprise-wide vision, strategic direction, growth plan and market coaching of gala, golf, CEO Soak and leadership events across the country.
• Ensure team goal achievement through the effective leadership, engagement, empowerment and mobilization of diverse partners, constituents, and volunteers.
• Play a critical role in supporting field teams through organizational change, particularly in unstaffed markets, by guiding development operations and ensuring effective local implementation of national strategies to sustain the long-term success of the Distinguished Events program.
• Responsible for leading the comprehensive strategic plan for the organization's distinguished events, aligning them with the overall mission and goals.
• Accountable for the achievement of a revenue target of approximately $4 million annually across all distinguished events, including but not limited to: golf, gala, CEO Soak and other leadership events.
• Conduct thorough market research to identify emerging trends and opportunities in event management and incorporate them into strategic planning.
• In partnership with territory leadership, monitor expenses, track financial performance, and provide regular reports to senior management and relevant stakeholders.
• Create event-specific objectives, key performance indicators (KPIs), benchmarks and metrics to measure the success of each event.
• Guide and partner with Regional Vice Presidents and Managing Directors of Development to coach and hold accountable their teams to ensure seamless execution and exceptional attendee experience.
• Coordinate with internal teams to establish event timelines, budgets, and logistical requirements.
• Collaborate with the marketing and communications team to develop effective, streamlined marketing strategies and promotional campaigns; and leverage digital platforms and technology to expand event reach and engage a broader audience.
• Work with field leadership to provide feedback, training needs, and ongoing coaching to enhance team members' skills.
• Additional responsibilities include interviewing, hiring, and training employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance; rewarding and disciplining employees; addressing complaints and resolving problems.
• Develop and manage overall department budget ensuring fiscal responsibility and efficient allocation of resources.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree (BA or BS) from four-year college or university and/or commensurate experience
• Seven to ten years development experience including experience in non-profit event and fundraising management experience is a must
• Experience building and executing large-scale distinguished events
• Team Player who can interface with all levels of staff and volunteers
• Must develop, maintain, and utilize relationships effectively
• Leader who can foster a collaborative and inclusive work environment that encourages creativity, innovation, and professional growth
• Strong practical foundation in building fundraising programs, consisting of staff orientation, training, stewardship and motivation in a local, regional or national management role
• Proven track record of strategic planning, budget management, volunteer management and team building
• Must exercise good judgement and know when to seek input from supervisor
• Detail-oriented and strong organizational skills
• Able to work through others to accomplish goals
• Able to work successfully in a diverse team environment
• The ability to travel up to 25% of the time and work occasional nights and weekends for Association business and conferences

Benefits

• Healthcare benefits
• 401(k) plan with employer match
• Short-term and long-term disability coverage
• Basic life insurance
• Well-being benefits
• Paid time off
• Several paid holidays