POSITION SUMMARY

The Senior Special Events Manager leads the planning, execution, and evaluation of a broad portfolio of high-impact organizational and philanthropic events for the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra. These include the annual Gala, First Chair stewardship event, concert receptions, donor dinners, house parties, other donor engagement events, salons, and more. Through these key LACO events, the Senior Events Manager is responsible for creating opportunities to help raise $1 million+ in revenue annually through tickets sales, sponsorships, in-kind donations, auctions, and more, in partnership with the Development team.

This is an important role at LACO that blends strategic planning, creative storytelling, sponsor engagement, and flawless event execution in support of donor cultivation, fundraising, and stewardship goals. The ideal candidate is a confident project manager and relationship builder who thrives in a collaborative, mission-driven environment.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

- Develop and manage an annual calendar of fundraising, donor relations, and organizational events aligned with company goals.

- Create and execute event strategies, themes, and run-of-show plans, including scripting, invitation, and advertising strategy and guest experience.

- Lead end-to-end project management for all event elements including production schedules, timelines, deliverables, and contingency planning.

Logistics and Execution

- Manage all logistics including venue selection, permitting, catering, transportation, vendor management, registration and check in, seating, and AV.

- Lead onsite event production and staff/volunteer supervision.

- Coordinate with internal departments and external partners to ensure timely and accurate delivery of materials and support.

- Maintain accurate attendee records and RSVP lists for all events and prepare nametags, check in lists, place cards, as needed. Record all information in donor database as applicable.

- Lead creation of all event promotional materials and registration websites in collaboration with Marketing and Development staff.

Fundraising and Stewardship

- Lead and collaborate with Development to secure, track, and fulfill event sponsorships and in-kind donations.

- Integrate fundraising components into events (e.g. auctions, live asks, paddle raise).

- Ensure event attendees are accurately tracked and stewarded through donor database and that donor and sponsor benefits are fulfilled and acknowledged.

Budget and Reporting

- Create and manage event budgets, track revenue and expenses, and reconcile post-event financials.

Conduct post-event evaluations, prepare reports on outcomes, and make data-driven recommendations for future events.

Cross-Functional Coordination

- Work closely with Development and Marketing teams on design, messaging, and alignment of events with the mission of LACO.

- Provide strategic and logistical support for internal events including Board meetings.

QUALIFICATIONS

- Expert-level project management and event production skills.

- Proven ability to execute high-end donor events with exceptional attention to detail.

- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, including working with volunteers, high-level donors, board members, and vendors.

- Creative eye for design and storytelling across formats and event types.

- Flexible and proactive problem solver.

- Able to effectively use computer software and other technology for daily task and project management, as well as Microsoft Outlook and Teams for internal communications.

Education and Experience

- Bachelor’s degree in related field or equivalent experience.

- Minimum 5 years of nonprofit or corporate event planning, including 3+ years managing gala or comparable high-level donor events.

- Experience with GiveSmart or similar event planning software.

- Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends as required.

Compensation and Benefits

Estimated Starting Salary Range: $80,000 - $100,000, based on skills and experience.

LACO offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance, a retirement plan with employer contribution, and generous paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick leave, and personal days). Employees also receive access to professional development opportunities and complimentary tickets to LACO concerts.

The position is hybrid, with an expectation of approximately three days per week onsite at LACO’s Los Angeles office and availability for evening and weekend events as needed.

Equity & Inclusion Statement

LACO is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to building an inclusive environment for all employees. We strongly encourage applications from women, people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, people with disabilities, and others who may contribute to the diversity of perspectives at LACO.

Physical Requirements

This position requires the ability to work onsite at concerts and events, including standing for extended periods of time, moving event materials, and occasionally lifting up to 25 pounds. A flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends, is essential to support LACO’s performance and event calendar.

Application Instructions

To apply, please submit a resume and cover letter detailing your relevant experience and interest in the position to info@laco.org. Please include “Senior Events Manager” in the subject line. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.