Careers with The Independence Fund

Team Principles 

In the performance of their respective tasks and duties all employees are expected to reflect the following organizational values about our work: 

• We are committed to working to the best of our abilities to provide the highest possible service to veterans, caregivers, donors and partners. 
• We are committed to meeting deadlines, with or without direct supervision, and being responsive to requests from constituents and colleagues. 
• We are committed to upholding the highest standards of respect and cooperation in our professional relationships with other employees, vendors, and donors. 
• We are committed to working effectively and collaboratively as a contributor on all team assignments. 
• We are committed to engaging in active communication and coordination of work efforts with other employees and organizations.  
• We are committed to working independently with self-discipline and accountability. 

Job Description 

The Events Manager will plan and execute impactful events to substantially raise the organization’s visibility in Washington, DC, North Carolina, and among the Veteran and Military Service Organization (VSO/MSO) communities nationwide. Such events are intended to diversify its partnerships, expand the organization’s public reputation, broaden relationships with change-makers, and increase advocacy efforts. 

The Events Manager subcontracts to outside vendors, especially event logistics managers, caterers, sound and light technicians, and travel firms. Furthermore, the Events Manager will coordinate closely with all departments in order to efficiently manage their specific events. 

Duties and Responsibilities 

• Develop an overarching organizational event strategy in partnership with the Chief Growth Officer, 
• Develop for the Chief Executive Officer, in collaboration with the Chief Officers, an event selection and decision-making process; 
• Aggressively schedule and hold regular event decision-making meetings to obtain decisions on selection and prioritization of events; 
• Manage a timely decision-making process that receives and processes new event proposals and which supports staff in developing those proposals;
• Develop a geographically dispersed network of event contractors and subcontractors upon whom the organization can rely for event execution;
• Attend community functions to network and identify potential opportunities to achieve the organization’s Goals; 
• Lead all aspects of the event planning and execution process for the organization, including collaboration with subcontractors, venue identification, invitations, checking-in of participants and attendees, menu development, printing and design of materials, and budget tracking; 
• Develop and implement a system for measuring the cost/benefit of each event in order to demonstrate its return on investment (ROI). 
• Collect contact data from participants and attendees, ensure its rapid integration into the appropriate Development database, and send follow-up communication to all involved; 
• Create summary reports of each event outlining how data was gathered from each event and how relationships developed at those events can be used to develop successful future events and contributions; 
• Working with the Chief Growth Officer, plan and schedule events and event-related activities; 
• Identify, recruit and onboard new Ambassadors to participate in events; 
• Develop, maintain and strengthen relationships with Ambassadors; 
• Remain current on speaker biographies, topics, and styles to serve as point of knowledge for internal departments; 
• Assist internal staff and Ambassadors to accurately report event expenses;
• Other duties as assigned. 

Competencies 

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills; 
• Strong interpersonal and negotiation skills; 
• Has the ability to think and plan strategically; 
• Can demonstrate critical and analytical thinking skills to solve problems; 
• Is able to work collaboratively with others, regardless of position;
• Demonstrated time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines; 
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail; 
• Proficient with the Microsoft Office Suite of programs. 

Relationships 

The Events Manager reports directly to the Chief Growth Officer and works collaboratively with all other staff to achieve event objectives, regardless of position. The Event Manager is the principal point of contact to all event vendors, Ambassadors, and contractors. 

Education and Experience  

• A bachelor’s degree in business administration, communication or another relevant field is preferred; 
• Previous experience in event planning and execution is highly desired;
• Presumed understanding and/or the ability to learn and engage with the philanthropic, political, veteran and caregiver communities. 

Working Requirements 

• This is a full-time (plus) position.  
• Working hours vary but generally coincide with the organization’s regular business hours of 9 am to 5 pm. However, demands of the position will require non-standard working hours. 
• Executing effective events will require extensive travel to planned event locations. 
• A valid driver’s license is required. 
• Ability to pass a background check. 

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.  

This position will be based out of the headquarters located at 412 Louise Avenue, Charlotte, North Carolina.  Remote work may be considered. This is a full-time position with salary and benefits based on qualifications and experience. 

To apply, submit resume and cover letter to development@independencefund.org