Special Events Manager - CSO

The Organization The Columbus Symphony has served as central Ohios flagship music organization since 1951 Our musicians conductors chorus and world renowned guest artists enrich the central Ohio community through extraordinary talent passion dedication and the highest standards of musicianship Guided by the artistic vision of Music Director Rossen Milanov the Columbus Symphony offers four programming brands Masterworks Pops Picnic with the Pops and EducationCommunity Engagement This segmented approach innovative within the American orchestra industry is helping the Columbus Symphony to reach new younger and more diverse audiences The Opportunity Do you thrive on creating exceptional experiences that connect people to a cause Are you a detail oriented planner who loves turning ideas into meaningful mission driven events Do you excel at balancing creativity logistics and relationship building in a fast paced environment If so this is your opportunity to play a key role in advancing the mission of the Columbus Symphony by leading the strategy planning and execution of fundraising and engagement events that inspire generosity and deepen community connection Primary Function The Special Events Manager a member of the Development team reporting to the Chief Development Officer is responsible for the planning coordination and execution of all fundraising cultivation and stewardship events and receptions including the annual gala that support the mission of the Columbus Symphony This position ensures that each event delivers an exceptional guest experience meets fundraising and relationship goals and aligns with the organizations strategic priorities The Special Events Manager collaborates closely with development marketing and operations teams as well as volunteers and vendors to bring events from concept to completion Duties Responsibilities and Key Performance Objectives First Month Learn the Columbus Symphonys event portfolio budget and donor engagement goals Meet with the Chief Development Officer development team members marketing staff and event volunteers to understand current event processes and areas for improvement Review vendor relationships sponsorship packages and event management system; document and share recommendations with supervisor First 6 Months Event Planning and Execution Plan organize and manage all aspects of special events including the annual Gala donorvolunteer appreciation events stakeholder programs and fundraising initiatives Develop event timelines budgets and work plans to ensure goals are achieved on time and within budget Oversee vendor selection contracts and logistics venue catering dcor entertainment AV Work with outside consultants to ensure execution of signature events Measures of Success Events executed on schedule and within 5 of budget; post event satisfaction rating of 90 among attendees and stakeholders Fundraising and Sponsorship Development Collaborate with development team to secure corporate sponsorships in kind donations and event revenue Assist in creating sponsorship proposals benefit packages and follow up reports Ensure all sponsor benefits are fulfilled and recognized appropriately Measures of Success Achieves or exceeds event fundraising targets; 90 sponsor renewal or satisfaction rate Event Marketing and Promotion Partner with the marketing and communications team to develop event branding invitations and digital campaigns Oversee guest lists and RSVPs ensuring a seamless experience for all attendees Measures of Success Event attendance goals met or exceeded; positive feedback on marketing materials and event communications Volunteer and Staff Coordination Liaise with volunteer groups including the League the Friends and Picnic with the Pops volunteers Recruit train and supervise volunteers and staff support for event operations Provide clear guidance roles and on site leadership Measures of Success 100 volunteer roles filled by event date; positive feedback from volunteers and staff post event First Year Lead the successful execution of the Symphonys annual Gala and other signature events demonstrating measurable impact in donor engagement and fundraising outcomes Establish standardized event planning and evaluation processes for continuous improvement Contribute innovative ideas that enhance donor cultivation and brand visibility across all events Measures of Success Document and evaluate all events to ensure best practices with a 251 or greater return on investment ROI Other Duties Serve as a key ambassador for the Columbus Symphony promoting the mission and vision at events and in the community Provide occasional support for concerts community programs or special initiatives as assigned Evening and weekend hours required for event execution This job description is not designed to cover or contain an exhaustive listing of duties responsibilities and key performance objectives that are expected of the employee These items may change or new job related items may be assigned from time to time Knowledge Skills and Abilities Exceptional organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple events simultaneously Strong written and verbal communication skills Excellent interpersonal skills and customer service orientation Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite; familiarity with donor databases and event management software preferred Creative problem solver with the ability to adapt quickly and stay calm under pressure Ability to lift up to 25 lbs and stand for extended periods during events Credentials and Experience Bachelors degree in nonprofit management communications marketing or related field; or equivalent work experience Typically 35 years of experience in event planning preferably within a nonprofit fundraising context is needed to have sufficient experience to be successful in an organization of this size and complexity Proven success managing budgets vendors and sponsorship relationships Special Requirements Requires flexibility with schedule to accommodate needs of the organization Successful evaluation of a background check The majority of CSOs fundraising and public events take place in the evenings and on weekends This position requires availability to work evenings and weekends as necessary Must have reliable transportation for off site meetings CSOs EEO Statement The Columbus Symphony Orchestra CSO is an Equal Opportunity Employer CSO does not discriminate in its employment decisions on the basis of race religion color national origin sex pregnancy lactation status gender identity or expression sexual orientation age disability veteran or military status genetic information or any other protected status