At Imprints of Honor, we believe service leaves a lasting legacy. Our mission honors veterans and empowers students through character and civic education. Our after-school program develops student leadership, confidence, character, and 21st century skills, while preserving veterans’ legacies. We are seeking a dedicated Special Events Manager to join our team and help us expand awareness and support for our mission.

Position Summary:

The Special Events Manager plays a vital role in advancing the mission of Imprints of Honor by planning and executing high-impact events that raise funds, engage the community, and honor our veterans. This role is responsible for the planning, coordination, and execution of all organizational events, including programmatic, fundraising, volunteer recognition, and community engagement activities. Events include book receptions, the Veteran Speaker Series, volunteer and teacher appreciation events, conference participation, a fall fundraiser, and a spring gala. The Special Events Manager works collaboratively with staff, volunteers, committees, and vendors to ensure each event is mission-driven, professionally executed, and fosters meaningful relationships with stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities:

Event Strategy & Planning

• Develop comprehensive plans for each event, including timelines, goals, budgets, and logistics.
• Ensure all events align with organizational values and strategic priorities.
• Source and negotiate contracts with venues, caterers, AV providers, and other vendors.
• Cultivate strong relationships with speakers, partners, and volunteers to enhance engagement.
• Serve as primary liaison to ensure smooth execution of all event logistics.
• Evaluate and improve events post-execution for quality and efficiency.

Fundraising & Sponsorship Engagement

• Recruit and manage volunteer planning committees and committee chairs.
• Provide leadership, support, and clear communication to ensure committee success.
• Collaborate with development staff and committees to identify, secure, and steward event sponsors, in-kind donors, and strategic partners.
• Track sponsorship agreements and deliverables.

Event Execution & Registration

• Develop collateral content and materials in coordination with development staff and graphic designer.
• Oversee event promotion across channels including email, website, and social media.
• Manage all aspects of pre-event registration and day-of logistics.
• Lead event setup, execution, and teardown with the support of volunteers and staff.
• Ensure a seamless, positive attendee experience.
• Provide guidance to administrative staff supporting event functions.
• Collaborate across departments to integrate event activities into broader organizational efforts.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree and minimum of 3 years of professional experience in event planning
• Strong organizational and project management skills, with attention to detail and deadlines.
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and adapt to changing priorities.
• Comfort working both independently and collaboratively within a team structure.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, Salesforce, Constant Contact, and Google Drive.
• Willingness to work occasional evenings and weekends as required.
• Passion for the mission of Imprints of Honor and a commitment to excellence.

Please send your resume to michelle@imprintsofhonor.org or submit through our LinkedIn posting at https://www.linkedin.com/jobs/view/4221476611/