Fundraising Events Specialist

Indianapolis Zoo•Indianapolis, IN

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Indianapolis Zoo is seeking a Fundraising Events Specialist to coordinate the Zoo's premier fundraising events. This role is crucial for planning and executing events such as Zoobilation, Brewfari, the Elegant Vintages International Wine Auction, and donor appreciation events. The ideal candidate is organized, creative, collaborative, and committed to the Zoo's mission of protecting nature and inspiring people to care for our world. This is an entry-level position requiring at least four years of professional experience in special event management or volunteer leadership. The successful candidate will possess a polished, professional image, an outgoing personality, a commitment to accuracy, strong problem-solving skills, and exceptional attention to detail. Demonstrated ability to multitask, handle high-pressure situations, and meet tight deadlines is highly desirable.

Requirements

A Bachelor's degree in fundraising, event management or marketing is required.
A minimum of four years of professional experience with special event management or volunteer leadership.
Polished, professional image.
Very outgoing personality.
Commitment to accuracy.
Strong problem-solving skills.
Extraordinary attention to detail.
Demonstrated experience and ability to multi-task, handle high pressure situations, and meet tight deadlines is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

Assists in planning of Zoobilation, Brewfari, Elegant Vintages International Wine Auction, and other events as assigned.
Organizes committee meetings and volunteers.
Prepares fundraising event budgets and progress reports.
Maintains records and databases related to special events. Enters reservations in Raiser's Edge database.
Plans, attends, and actively participates in regular meetings of the fundraising event volunteer committees.
Assist Special Events Manager in all aspects of event prep and day-of activities.
Serves as a liaison between the Zoo, vendors, suppliers, sponsors, donors, underwriters, restaurants, etc.
Must have the ability to transport and move items up to twenty (20) pounds frequently and transport and move items up to fifty (50) pounds occasionally.
Predominantly indoor environmental conditions, although there is some exposure to outdoor environmental conditions, which include inclement weather, cold and hot temperatures, and humidity.
Ability to detect, assess, identify, and observe surroundings to make sound judgments, along with the ability to communicate verbally, comprehend and decipher information accurately, using a telephone.