Job Description

The Special Events Manager is a highly independent, full-time exempt position responsible for leading the planning, coordination, and execution of a broad spectrum of school events driving engagement and significant revenue for the school. These include but arent limited to: our major annual fundraiser auction / Gala, community gatherings, student celebrations, alumni functions, and special ceremonies. This role requires a creative, self-directed, and proactive individual capable of taking ownership of projects from inception to completion, providing the vision and leadership for successful events that align with the schools mission and goals. The Special Events Manager will be expected to work autonomously, leveraging initiative, creativity, and professional judgment to drive event success and contribute significantly to the overall fundraising efforts at the school.

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Responsibilities

Lead and Innovate: Proactively conceptualize and oversee the planning, coordination and execution of key Advancement and school-wide events, from inception to completion. Use creativity and independent judgment to design events that reflect the Priorys mission, values, and community.

Self-Directed Project Management: Manage all aspects of event logistics, vendor relations, timelines, and budgets, with minimal supervision. Own the process end-to-end, ensuring events are executed flawlessly and within budget. Ensure attention to detail and quality throughout.

Cross-Department Collaboration: Work collaboratively with Advancement, parent leaders, Admissions, Student Life, and Academic departments, as well as with faculty, high-value donors and program leaders such as the Garden Faculty, to integrate cross-functional support and ensure cohesive event execution.

Major Event Leadership: Take ownership of the execution of high-profile events such as the Priory Gala, Vision & Values welcome event, graduation-related activities, alumni reunions, and donor appreciation events. Use creative problem-solving and strategic thinking to ensure all events are seamlessly executed and drive revenue as budgeted.

Event Marketing and Communication: Direct and oversee event marketing efforts, including invitations, RSVPs, signage, and post-event follow-ups. Ensure all communications reflect the Priorys values and enhance the event experience.

Vendor Negotiation and Relationships: Independently negotiate contracts with vendors and manage relationships with caterers, decorators, AV teams, and other service providers. Take responsibility for delivering high-quality vendor services in line with the event goals.

Event Budget and Post-Event Review: Track event budgets with full ownership of financials, provide detailed post-event reports, and suggest improvements for future events based on feedback and analysis.

Mission-Aligned Execution: Ensure that all events reflect and reinforce the schools mission, values, and commitment to fostering community and excellence in all activities.

Qualifications

• Bachelors degree in Event Management, Marketing, Hospitality, Communications, or related field.
• Proven experience in event planning and execution, ideally in an educational or nonprofit setting.
• Strong organizational and project management skills with an exceptional attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently, demonstrating initiative, creativity, and ownership in managing multiple projects simultaneously.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills; comfortable working with students, parents, faculty, alumni, and donors.
• Flexibility to work evenings and weekends as required to meet event schedules.
• Proficiency with event management tools, auction software, Google Workspace, and CRM databases (e.g., Raiser's Edge, Salesforce) a plus.
• A collaborative spirit and commitment to supporting the schools Benedictine values and community-driven mission.

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