Associate Director, Development Events

SUMMARY
The Associate Director, Development Events is responsible for planning and producing all major SFJAZZ fundraising and stewardship events, including the annual Gala, Salons, Artist Dinners, Leaders Circle Lounges, and other events essential to the organization’s fundraising goals. The Associate Director, Development Events will work closely with and manage the efforts of event committees, hosts, and senior leadership, and will ensure a unified and comprehensive plan for all Development events. This position supervises the Events Associate. 

ABOUT SFJAZZ
SFJAZZ is one of the world’s most popular and important presenters of jazz. The SFJAZZ Center is a beautiful and perfect stage for jazz artists and the community to celebrate the living American art form of jazz. The $64 million dollar Center launched in 2013 and the 38-year-old non-profit organization now delivers distinguished programming and education services from the heart of the San Francisco arts district. The pre-pandemic budget for the organization was over $19 million; 60% derived from ticket sales.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• In consultation with the Director of Development, design a comprehensive plan for Development events that achieves SFJAZZ fundraising and strategic goals; 
• In collaboration with gift officers, ensure the design and implementation of engagement plans for event attendees, integrating with existing fundraising plans;
• Supervise and collaborate with the Events Associate in the creation of timelines, budgets, and procedures for all Development events;
• Manage solicitation plans for major fundraising events, including overseeing event marketing and PR plans; Collaborate with gift officers in prospect cultivation and solicit donors for participation in events;
• Collaborate with the Corporate Partnerships Manager in the solicitation of sponsorship prospects and fulfillment of benefits; 
• Lead in-kind sponsor solicitation for events;
• Serve as liaison to partners, neighbors, and Production and Operations departments to optimize event logistics; 
• Participate in regular Production and Operation meetings; 
• Create and lead standing event meetings as needed;
• In collaboration with Donor Services, manage all event-related mailing lists, invitations, and acknowledgments;;
• Develop agendas and track action items for event committee meetings, ensuring goals and objectives are completed successfully;
• Lead event debriefs with executive leadership, senior management, and volunteers;
• Staff events as necessary, including overseeing set-up, registration, and breakdown;
• Work with Artistic Department on the scheduling and handling of artists in events;
• Create RFPs for potential vendors; 
• Evaluate proposals and recommend or select vendors and partners;
• Steward and develop relationships with local vendors for SFJAZZ fundraising events, identifying opportunities for in-kind donations, partnerships, and more;
• Research, develop, and implement a model for auction activities in the Development Department’s annual fundraising plan;
• Other duties as assigned by the Director of Development.

STATUS AND SCOPE

• Experience leading the production of large events with significant revenue goals.
• Comfort in communicating effectively with a diverse array of constituents, including demonstrated experience working with high-level volunteer committees.
• Ability to think critically and creatively under pressure in public situations.
• Detail-oriented person with a passion for accuracy and thoroughness.
• Strong conceptual abilities; Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Professional demeanor and self-presentation.
• Knowledge of and interest in jazz and related music.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Five years of direct experience within a nonprofit organization OR seven years of progressive job-related experience in event production. The ability to speak business-level English is also required.

Working Conditions:
The work schedule includes customary office hours and also has the potential for long hours during critical periods such as Festival weeks and special events. This job requires occasional to frequent work during evenings and weekends, in addition to standing for long periods, and the ability to lift 50+lbs.

Salary: Exempt, based upon professional experience.

We offer a competitive salary based on qualifications, excellent benefits, and, post-pandemic, a dynamic, casual San Francisco office. 

SFJAZZ IS AN EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER COMMITTED TO DIVERSITY OF STAFF.  We particularly welcome those who bring the gifts of diversity to our organization. People of color, people who identify as LGBTQIA, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

To Apply: Please send your resume, cover letter, and salary requirements to the email address: jobs [at] sfjazz [dot] org. Mention “Associate Director, Development Events” in the subject line. Resumes will be accepted until the position is filled. No phone calls, please.

Job Title:    Associate Director, Development Events
Department:   Development
Reports To:   Director of Development
Prepared Date: May 4, 2021