Job Posting: National Director - Theme Events

Position Title: National Director, Theme Events
Reports To: Founder, Autism Speaks
Location: NYC

PURPOSE: The purpose of this position is to raise money for Autism Speaks by spearheading the development, planning, and execution of successful fundraising theme (boutique) events for high net worth individuals and/or Fortune 100 corporations. The Director will provide the strategic vision and operational plan for national theme (boutique) events in conjunction with the Founder’s objectives. He/she will liaise with the Founder and Board of Directors and is responsible for assessing the financial viability of boutique special event ideas as generated by the Founder and Board.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
Overview:
Direct the development and expansion of the theme events function such as: concerts, high society luncheons/dinners, private major donor events (i.e., premiere party, Broadway show), select celebrity fundraisers, theme events for Fortune 100 corporations and private individuals Manage and cultivate ongoing relationships with the offices of external event leaders, Fortune 100 corporate partners, consultants, vendors and members of the Board of Directors. Liaise with the Founder and prospective board members who have the potential to contact key individuals who have the desire to create, support, and contribute to Autism Speaks prestigious, high end theme (boutique) events.

Theme (Boutique) Events
Direct the planning and execution of all theme events from inception to completion, including development, pre-planning, and coordination of hi-profile, prestigious boutique events and other significant events attended by high society, celebrity and high net worth individuals Work with individuals of corporate, social and celebrity prominence to plan private events within a prestigious circle, offering exceptional quality, personalized service and smooth execution Direct the efforts of external event management companies; oversee logistics and travel when necessary to coordinate events, ensuring personalized service Coordinate publicity for all theme events, in conjunction with Awareness/Communications Department and external Public Relations and/or advertising firm to ensure compliance with Autism Speaks branding efforts Travel extensively as needed to various locations where events will be held.

FinancialWork with Founder, President, EVP, and CFO in creating annual budget and expense management Ensure budgetary adherence/compliance.

Board and Volunteer RelationsWork with Founder and President to define revenue goals and maximize events based on their suggestions and creative vision Liaise with Founder and Board to identify and solicit high net worth individuals and Fortune 100 corporate sponsors for all boutique events.

LeadershipDemonstrate leadership by collaborating, sharing knowledge, and transferring skills to others in development, including special events and major gifts’ campaigns.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS
Education:
Bachelor’s Degree required; prefer Marketing or Communications specialty CMP (Certified Meeting Planner) or PMP (Project Management Professional) highly desired

Experience:
Minimum 10 years experience in developing, planning, and executing theme (boutique) events; marketing background or communications experience is helpful Must have experience from inception to execution of prestigious high end events, including working closely with high net worth individuals and Fortune 100 corporations; political exposure desired Strong background with successful track record in event planning, logistics, and management required; production experience is highly desired.

Specialized Skills and Knowledge:
Direct all aspects of theme (boutique) event planning on a national level. Must possess strategic thinking capabilities along with the ability to communicate Organization’s vision and goals, both in oral and written communication form.

Efficient, results-driven, highly motivated, detail-oriented in order to manage multiple boutique events Outstanding interpersonal skills Ability to cultivate and retain key relationships High degree of self-assurance and professionalism required Strong project management skills essential in order to successfully oversee all boutique event planning and logistics Utilization of technology to facilitate fundraising High level proficiency in MS Office: Excel, PowerPoint, database programs Must travel 25-50% with flexibility to temporarily reside near the event site .

If you are interested, or know of anyone interested, please forward resumes to:
pdesaules@autismspeaks.org

Thank you.