Managing Director, Special Events

GMHC•New York, NY

9d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Managing Director, Special Events is responsible for working with the Senior Vice President of Development in the strategic development and implementation of signature events for GMHC, including but not limited to AIDS Walk New York, Howard Ashman Award & Cabaret, Latex Ball and Donor Cultivation Events. This position will contribute to the delivery of meaningful and impactful events that garner positive PR and brand awareness, foster strong community relations, increase revenue, donor loyalty and introduce new supporters to GMHC’s mission. The Managing Director, Special Events must be able to demonstrate internal team leadership while employing an entrepreneurial, collaborative and results-oriented approach to lead and drive the production of high-quality events that advance our brand, donor involvement, cultivation, and stewardship. With a strong focus on execution as well as innovation, this position is responsible for ensuring successful event execution, including logistical preparation, vendor management, awards, presentations, speaker coordination, auction management, scripting and video production coordination, data-entry, and any other tasks needed to make our events and partnerships successful. This job requires a dynamic, motivated, energetic, and personable individual with a go-getter attitude and a drive to exceed budgetary fundraising goals as a team while maximizing ROI. Above all, this role requires someone who cares. GMHC's work is urgent, personal, and life-changing for the communities we serve. The right candidate will bring not just fundraising expertise but a genuine passion for the mission and a deep commitment to the people at the center of it.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree, preferred, and a minimum of 8+ years of progressively more senior and complex Event roles, preferably in a nonprofit environment or an equivalent education and work experience which would provide an opportunity to acquire the knowledge and abilities to successfully perform the essential duties of the job
An understanding of charitable giving legal guidelines, specifically as it relates to fundraising events.
Prior management experience and strong leadership skills.
The flexibility to work early mornings, late evenings and occasional weekends due to the nature of our events.
Excellent relationship management and interpersonal skills: the ability to work effectively with donors, volunteers and staff;
Display superior judgment and diplomatic skills.
Excellent verbal and written communications skills.
Proven strong negotiating skills.
Enthusiasm, commitment to excellence, self-motivation, a professional demeanor, is highly organized and detail oriented.
The ability to handle multiple tasks with organization and accuracy.
A collaborative, team-oriented attitude.
Commitment to inclusive, stigma-free, and people-first communication
Deep awareness of and alignment with LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities
Authentic passion for GMHC's mission and the communities we serve.
Knowledge in CRM systems, Every Action is a plus
Microsoft Office Suite / Google Workspace
Project management tools (Asana or equivalent)
Internet research and strong knowledge of social media.
Familiarity with content management systems and email platforms is a plus.
Ability to learn new business software programs as needed.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree preferred, or equivalent professional experience.

Responsibilities

Leads the development of concepts, themes and formats for major events for the organization that engage supporters, increase brand awareness, and grow revenue.
Provides expertise to staff and committees in the planning and execution of all external and internal events.
Negotiates favorable rates with venues, consultants and vendors to maximize budget efficiency
Manages consultants and vendors prior to and during the event to ensure flawless efficiency.
Maintains event budgets and oversees financial reporting to internal departments.
Develops content for event correspondence, collateral materials, social media and web in collaboration with Communications and Marketing department.
Oversees the post-event coordination including but not limited to debrief meetings, recognition to key constituents, financial reporting and data transfer.
Logs and tracks all in-kind contributions.
Supports internal teams with the stewardship of host committees to secure members, sponsorships, and in-kind gifts.
Co-manage the planning and execution of tailored deliverables and activations for corporate funders.
Informs and updates staff members and other involved parties throughout the event cycle.
Works with Volunteer Manager to support internal and external event volunteers on the day of the event.
Co-lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing small team, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.
Ensure that systems and tools, processes, and talent effectively support NYC Pride's operational needs.
Contribute as a senior institutional leader beyond the Events function, modeling collaboration, integrity, and respect across the organization.
Performs additional duties and responsibilities as needed.