Director of Events

YMCA•San Francisco, CA

91d•$76,000 - $90,000

About The Position

The Director of Events is a key leader in advancing the YMCA of San Francisco’s philanthropic and community engagement goals. This role provides strategic direction and execution for association-wide fundraising and mission-driven events. The Director develops and implements event strategies that generate significant philanthropic revenue, deepen community relationships, and elevate the YMCA’s visibility across the Bay Area. By centralizing and professionalizing event planning, this position ensures alignment with organizational goals, effective resource use, and consistent high-quality experiences that support the YMCA’s mission and 2030 Vision.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience.
2+ years of experience managing event planning, logistics, and execution.
Strong organizational, time management, and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
Effective communicator with excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal skills.
Demonstrated ability to motivate and work collaboratively with volunteers, executives, and staff at all levels.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office 365 and familiarity with event/project management tools.
Commitment to the YMCA mission, values, and equity principles.
Ability to work cross-functionally and build authentic relationships with diverse stakeholders.
Availability to work evenings and weekends as required for events.

Responsibilities

Design and lead a comprehensive event strategy for fundraising and mission-focused events across all branches.
Establish event goals and return-on-investment (ROI) measures, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives.
Elevate the YMCA’s events brand to reinforce mission, community engagement, and organizational visibility.
Partner with Advancement leadership on forecasting, reporting, and continuous improvement of event effectiveness.
Serve as project manager for fundraising events ($25,000+ revenue level) and association-wide gatherings.
Lead logistics, scheduling, vendor coordination, budgeting, and post-event evaluation.
Collaborate with branch leaders, volunteers, board members, and staff to deliver high-quality events.
Ensure risk management, legal compliance, and financial accuracy in all event operations.
Oversee event calendars, timelines, and key milestones to support seamless execution.
In partnership and collaboration with fellow advancement and revenue-generating staff, set and meet organization-wide event fundraising goals.
Increase number of major gifts, sponsorships, and average gift size through strong event execution, engagement, and program showcase.
Increase donor and stakeholder sense of connection and satisfaction around their engagement and support of the Y.
Cultivate and steward event sponsors, donors, and community partners through relationship-building and professional communications.
Create innovative opportunities for showcasing program impact and engaging attendees with the YMCA’s mission.
Ensure accurate donor recognition and reporting in collaboration with Advancement staff.
Partner with Marketing and Communications to develop and distribute event promotions, invitations, and impact stories.
Provide consultation and coaching to staff and volunteers on best practices in event planning and execution.
Serve as liaison to Finance, Risk & Legal, and other internal departments to ensure compliance and streamlined processes.
Monitor event budgets, ensuring fiscal responsibility and effective resource allocation.
Maintain accurate event records, data tracking, and reporting for staff and boards.
Identify opportunities to reduce costs, improve efficiencies, and increase long-term impact.
Participate in professional development and team-building opportunities.
Complete required trainings and certifications, including YMCA safety protocols and First Aid/CPR/AED.
Contribute to organizational culture by modeling YMCA values of caring, respect, honesty, and responsibility.
Support program learning and other duties as assigned.