Special Event Manager

Company Description The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee is a financially responsible, debt-free organization dedicated to sustaining and growing a vibrant Jewish community in Sarasota-Manatee and beyond. Guided by our mission to save Jewish lives and enhance Jewish life locally, in Israel, and around the world, we fund a wide range of services, programs, and activities focused on meeting community needs, promoting positive Jewish identity, Israel education, and building community. Backed by generous donors and a strong balance sheet, we continue to address the challenges of modern Jewish life with long-term stability and impact.

Role Description

The Special Events Manager plays a pivotal role in donor engagement and is often the first point of introduction for donors getting to know the Federation. This is a strategic leadership position for someone who creates memorable donor experiences and meaningful opportunities to thank and celebrate donors at every level.

What You’ll Do

• Oversee and execute all annual development events (10 to 100+ guests), including donor appreciation events, the annual luncheon, and specialized events for our giving societies
• Develop and manage sponsorship structure and solicitation for programs and events, in collaboration with the Director of Engagement
• Manage the Federation’s portfolio of Lions of Judah and Pomegranate Societies’ events — stewarding committees and chairs, running the yearly pin process, and liaising with our societies ahead of the bi-annual conference
• Collaborate with staff and, where applicable, event volunteer leaders to coordinate events
• Plan major events throughout the year alongside volunteer leaders and lead staff
• Set event strategy and marketing, conduct research, make site visits, and source resources to inform event decisions
• Create and track event budgets, and ensure adherence to them
• Review, negotiate, and approve vendor pricing proposals, contracts, and invoices
• Coordinate and monitor event timelines to ensure deadlines are met
• Serve as the primary liaison with vendors on event-related matters
• Help determine creative direction for each event, including design work as needed
• Work closely with the Marketing Department to build and monitor marketing timelines, serving as the primary link between marketing and event lead staff
• Coordinate staff roles, event job descriptions, and per-event training
• Provide on-site, day-of event management
• Complete post-event follow-up, including final contract resolutions and payments
• Enhance on-site Federation branding across events
• Measure event results and analytics
• Learn and adapt to evolving systems as the organization grows — comfort with change is a must, not a nice-to-have

What You’ll Bring

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant or related field
• 2-5 years of event experience or work in related activities
• Commitment to a strong staff culture and shared team values
• Excellent planning and organizational skills
• Exceptional research abilities
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects and collaborate with a wide variety of staff and personalities
• Outstanding negotiation skills