Associate Director of Fundraising Events

The Associate Director of Fundraising Events plays a key role in advancing Bridges from School to Work’s fundraising efforts by leading the planning and execution of the organization’s gala and developing other fundraising events in local sites. Reporting to the Director of Development, this position serves as the primary owner of event implementation—bringing together strategy, operations, and cross-functional collaboration to deliver engaging, mission-driven events.

This role works closely with the Director of Development, CEO, internal teams, and external stakeholders to ensure events are well-managed, on time, and aligned with Bridges’ fundraising and stewardship goals. The Associate Director also supervises the Manager of Events and helps build strong, repeatable systems that support event success and growth year over year.

Core Responsibilities:

Event Planning and Execution
• Lead end-to-end planning and execution of the annual gala and other fundraising events.
• Translate fundraising strategies into clear event timelines, work plans, and deliverables.
• Ensure events reflect Bridges’ mission, values, and commitment to community and accessibility.

Team Leadership and Collaboration
• Supervise and support the Manager of Events, providing guidance and performance feedback.
• Coordinate closely with the CEO, Development, Finance, Administration, and Program teams to align event efforts.
• Serve as a central point of contact to ensure smooth communication and collaboration.

Marketing, Sponsorship, and Stewardship Management
• Oversee sponsorship fulfillment plans and timelines.
• Coordinate event-related marketing and communications activities.
• Support post-event stewardship, follow-up, and reporting efforts.

Vendor and Consultant Management
• Oversee event vendors, venues, consultants, and production partners.
• Manage contracts, timelines, and deliverables in coordination with Administration and Finance
• Support run-of-show development and on-site execution.

Budget and Operational Oversight
• Develop and manage event budgets in partnership with the Director of Development and Finance.
• Track expenses and support accurate financial reporting.
• Document processes and lessons learned to strengthen future events.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• 8–10 years of experience in fundraising events, development, or event management.
• Strong project management and organizational skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience supervising staff and managing complex projects.
• Comfort working with CRM systems such as Salesforce.
• Demonstrated commitment to the Bridges mission.

Required Skills:

•    Ability to build and sustain relationships with donors, internal stakeholders, and external partners.
•    Strong verbal and written communication skills.
•    Strong presentation, facilitation, and external representation skills.
•    Ability to influence and drive work forward through collaboration rather than direct authority.
•    Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

Physical Requirements:

•    Prolonged periods sitting or standing at a desk and working on a computer.
•    Ability to operate general office equipment.
•    Ability to travel.