Temporary Gala Director

Careers In Nonprofits•New York City, NY

7d•Onsite

About The Position

The Temporary Gala Director will serve as the central leader for the organization's premier annual fundraising gala—a prestigious 500-person event in New York City that generates approximately $3 million annually. This individual will oversee every aspect of gala fundraising and event execution, acting as the primary liaison between the development team, executive leadership, production agency, vendors, sponsors, and donors. This is a highly visible leadership role requiring someone who is comfortable managing high-profile stakeholders, driving donor solicitation efforts, overseeing event production, and ensuring all moving pieces come together for a successful fundraising event.

Requirements

Experience leading large-scale fundraising galas with multimillion-dollar revenue goals required
Strong donor solicitation, sponsorship, and fundraising experience required
Experience working directly with CEOs, corporate executives, board members, philanthropists, and VIP guests required
Experience managing event production vendors, agencies, caterers, AV, and venue logistics required
Exceptional project management and organizational skills

Responsibilities

Lead the planning and execution of the organization's signature fundraising gala from now through the October event.
Serve as the primary project lead and central point of coordination for all gala-related activities.
Spearhead donor solicitation efforts, sponsorship outreach, and fundraising initiatives to achieve the organization's multimillion-dollar fundraising goal.
Work closely with executive leadership, the development team, board members, and major donors throughout the planning process.
Manage relationships with the organization's long-standing event production agency and oversee all event logistics, including catering, audiovisual, décor, venue operations, and vendor coordination.
Coordinate timelines, meetings, deliverables, budgets, sponsorship commitments, and fundraising progress.
Collaborate with the Head of Creative and internal departments to ensure seamless execution of all event components.
Oversee donor communications, sponsorship fulfillment, guest experience, and VIP logistics.
Attend and lead all aspects of event execution, including setup, production management, donor hospitality, and event breakdown.
Provide leadership and guidance to internal staff and the incoming Special Events Manager throughout the planning process.
Perform other duties as assigned to ensure the successful execution of the organization's premier fundraising event.