Director of Fundraising Events

The Director of Fundraising Events is a high-impact role responsible for designing and executing a comprehensive, multi-channel fundraising and engagement strategy to secure at least $5M in annual revenue through fundraising events. This role is both strategic and execution-focused, requiring strong leadership, judgment, and the ability to operate at a senior level with trustees, major donors, and executive leadership. The primary focus is maximizing revenue through galas, high-level cultivation events, and institutional stewardship initiatives. This role also oversees the planning and execution of all fundraising and cultivation events for both the annual and capital campaign efforts; and leads the execution of large-scale organizational openings and milestones to support FHL's fundraising efforts. Fundraising events include a signature 500-650 person annual Spring Benefit and the annual 250-person High Line Art Dinner, as well as luncheons, lectures, tours and cocktail receptions. The Director reports to the Chief Advancement Officer.ResponsibilitiesOrganizing and executing the annual Spring Benefit and High Line Art Dinner generating more than $5M annuallyLead the planning and execution of events tied organizational milestones, as well as cultivation and stewardship events.Securing corporate and individual sponsorships and underwriting for the BenefitsImplementing a strategy for planning, managing, and executing a consistent series of donor cultivation and stewardship events built for growth of priority audiencesEnhancing fundraising opportunities for current events and identify new events with revenue potentialDeveloping and tracking event budgets and overall planning timelinesSet and monitor revenue/expense targets for all events, ensuring a high ROI, and produce regular reports on progress to goalOverseeing the management of event communications, including web and print materials, invitation designs and mailings, and printed programsWork to recruit, train, and manage high-level honorees and volunteer committees to leverage their networks for sponsorship and ticket salesActively maintain a portfolio of honoree prospects and event leadership prospects, focusing on building long-term relationships and moving them through the pipeline through continued stewardship and engagement.Overseeing the compilation and management of solicitation and invitation lists and appropriate researchOverseeing the reconciliation of revenue and expenses with Finance Department; ensuring the timely collection of pledged gifts for fundraising eventsManagement of outside vendors and negotiation of contracts with competitive pricingServing as project lead for events that involve external stakeholders like government partners, such as ribbon cuttings and other opening eventsOverseeing a staff of one, Special Events Manager, and empowering them to meet ambitious goalsAdvancing a multi-year approach to cultivation of a pipeline of future honoree prospects and developing ways to engage them in the work of FHLProviding consistent coaching, feedback, delegation, and development opportunities to build team capacity and readiness for increased responsibility.Collaborating closely with Individual and Institutional Giving teams to align events with donor cultivation strategies, stewardship plans, and revenue projections.Using data, post-event analysis, and donor insights to continuously refine event strategy and improve performance year over year.QualificationsA minimum of seven to ten years fundraising experience relevant to the responsibilities outlined in job description; proven track record of fundraisingExperience planning and executing highly successful fundraising galas and other eventsMust be self-motivated, energetic, and highly organized team playerDemonstrated ability to pay absolute attention to detail and to manage volunteers, vendors, and sponsorsOutstanding writing and interpersonal communication skillsProficiency in Microsoft Office and fundraising softwareAbility to work extended hours and occasional weekends as neededBachelor's degree is requiredExperience with Raisers Edge preferredDemonstrated ability to manage complex projects with multiple stakeholders and competing deadlinesThis is a full-time exempt position with a salary range of $118,000 - $135,000, based upon experience and qualifications.The location for the role remains hybrid, with a requirement to physically report to the office a minimum of 3 days per week (located in Manhattan's Meatpacking District in New York City).Medical, dental, and vision insurancePaid primary and secondary caregiver leave20 Vacation days, 7 sick days, and 10 paid holidays with floating holidays & Winter Fridays, Discounts Citi Bike MembershipDiscounts with vendors at the High Line & around the Meatpacking neighborhoodFree entrance to the Whitney MuseumSupplemental short-term disability insurance and paid life insuranceCommuter benefitsFlexible Spending AccountsContribution in a 403(b) retirement planEmployee Assistance ProgramGrowth & DevelopmentEEO Statement:The High Line is guided by a series of values through which we make decisions, including hiring. These values include proactively creating access points for all people, regardless of age, sex, color, creed, race, income, country of origin, religion, sexual orientation, or gender identity.As part of our commitment to living up to these values and advancing equity within our organization and through our work, we are committed to an equitable hiring process. Hence, we strongly encourage applications from people with a broad range of lived experiences. This description shall not be construed as a contract of any sort for a specific period of employment.If you have a disability and need help with the application process:Email peopleandculture@thehighline.org to request accommodations (like alternative formats, extra time, etc.)Important clarification:This email is ONLY for requesting disability accommodationsResumes sent to this email won't receive special treatment in the selection processThe only special consideration will be providing the specific accommodation you need to complete the application fairlyJ-18808-Ljbffr