What are the responsibilities and job description for the Events & Stewardship Manager position at Eugene Symphony Association?
The Eugene Symphony seeks an energetic, highly organized, and relationship-focused Events & Stewardship Manager to help create exceptional donor experiences that inspire philanthropic support and deepen engagement with one of Oregon’s leading cultural institutions.
This position leads the Symphony’s donor events, stewardship initiatives, sponsor hospitality, donor recognition programs, and audience engagement efforts. Working closely with the Director of Development and Development Manager, the Events & Stewardship Manager creates meaningful donor experiences that strengthen relationships, increase retention, and support the organization’s fundraising goals.
The ideal candidate is outgoing, detail-oriented, creative, and passionate about creating memorable experiences. They enjoy working with donors, volunteers, sponsors, musicians, and community leaders while ensuring every interaction reflects the Eugene Symphony’s commitment to excellence.
To apply, please submit a resume and cover letter to hr@eugenesymphony.org.
Priority application review begins June 22, 2026. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.
Position Summary:
The Events & Stewardship Manager serves as a key member of the Development team and is responsible for planning and executing fundraising events, donor cultivation experiences, sponsor hospitality, donor recognition programs, and stewardship initiatives that support donor retention, engagement, and philanthropic growth.
Key Responsibilities:
Fundraising & Donor Events
- Plan and execute fundraising and donor cultivation events throughout the season, including the Annual Gala, donor receptions, sponsor gatherings, Opening Night celebrations, and special cultivation events.
- Coordinate 4—5 smaller fundraising events annually and a series of donor gatherings hosted in Board members’ homes
- Manage event logistics, vendors, budgets, invitations, timelines, and guest experience
- Support event sponsorship fulfillment and donor cultivation strategies
Donor Stewardship & Recognition
- Lead donor stewardship efforts across all giving levels
- Coordinate donor acknowledgment, recognition, and hospitality programs
- Manage donor recognition in programs, publications, digital platforms, and special events
- Ensure timely and meaningful donor communications and follow-up
- Develop creative stewardship opportunities that connect donors to the Symphony’s artistic and community impact
Sponsor & VIP Experiences
- Manage sponsor benefit fulfillment, including tickets, hospitality, recognition, and special access opportunities
- Coordinate VIP donor and sponsor experiences at concerts and special events
- Partner with Development and Marketing staff to ensure exceptional sponsor engagement and visibility
Encore Society and Legacy Giving
- Support stewardship and engagement activities for planned giving donors and members of the Encore Society
- Coordinate legacy donor recognition opportunities and stewardship events
- Assist in strengthening long-term donor relationships and planned giving awareness
Audience Engagement & Donor Growth
- Create pathways for audience members, subscribers, and event attendees to deepen their philanthropic engagement
- Support donor retention and upgrade strategies through meaningful relationship-building opportunities
- Help connect donors with musicians, guest artists, and the Symphony’s mission through unique experiences and storytelling.
Data & Reporting
- Maintain accurate donor engagement, event participation, and stewardship records within the CRM
- Track event performance, donor participation, and engagement metrics
- Prepare post-event evaluations and stewardship reports
Qualifications
Preferred qualifications include:
- Minimum three years of experience in fundraising, events, donor relations, hospitality, nonprofit management, or related fields
- Demonstrated success planning and executing events and managing multiple projects simultaneously
- Experience working with donor databases and CRM platforms
- PatronManager and/or Salesforce experience strongly preferred
- Exceptional organizational and project management skills
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills
- Ability to build authentic relationships with donors, sponsors, volunteers, and community leaders
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to exceptional customer service
- Comfortable working evenings and weekends for events and performances
- Passion for the arts and commitment to the Eugene Symphony’s mission
The Eugene Symphony values a collaborative and mission-driven culture. Candidates who bring enthusiasm, creativity, hospitality, and a strong commitment to relationship-building are strongly encouraged to apply.
Position Details
- Full-time exempt position
- Frequent evening and weekend work required
- Salary range: $45,000 –$55,000 annually, depending on qualifications and experience
- Employer-sponsored health and dental insurance
- 401(k) retirement plan
- Unlimited vacation leave
- Paid sick leave
About the Eugene Symphony
Celebrating more than 60 years of artistic excellence, the Eugene Symphony serves as a cornerstone cultural institution for Eugene and the broader region. Under the leadership of Music Director Alex Prior, the Symphony presents a broad range of orchestral, educational, and community engagement programming designed to enrich lives through the power of music.
The Eugene Symphony is an equal opportunity employer and encourages candidates from all backgrounds and experiences to apply.
Salary : $45,000 - $55,000