Director of Events

Job Overview:

The Department of Institutional Advancement’s Event team is expanding, and the department is seeking a senior event leader, dedicated to driving the strategic vision and execution forward of all event-related activities. The Director of Events will oversee a growing Events Team and work closely with other senior leaders to ensure events align with organizational goals, enhance brand visibility and support fundraising efforts. This position will report to the Associate Director of Institutional Advancement and manage a team of event professionals, fostering a culture of excellence, innovation and mission alignment.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Develop and implement a comprehensive strategy for all events, ensuring they support departmental goals and advancement initiatives.
• Collaborate with senior leadership, including the Chief Institutional Advancement Officer and Development teams, to align events with fundraising, donor engagement, and programmatic priorities.
• Identify opportunities to expand and enhance the organization’s event portfolio to maximize impact and engagement.

Team Management and Oversight:

• Provide leadership and guidance to the Events Department, to ensure successful planning and execution of events.
• Foster professional development and mentorship for the Events team, encouraging creativity, innovation, and continuous improvement.
• Oversee the recruitment and retention of high-performing event staff and volunteers. 

Event Execution and Impact:

• Serve as the executive sponsor for major events, including galas, donor recognition events, national conventions, and programmatic conferences.
• Oversee high-level event logistics, ensuring they meet or exceed expectations for quality, branding, and alignment with organizational goals.
• Evaluate event performance using metrics and stakeholder feedback, applying insights to future planning.

Budgeting and Resource Management:

• Oversee the Events Department’s budget, ensuring events are cost-effective and meet financial targets.
• Ensure proper allocation of resources to support the successful execution of events while maintaining fiscal responsibility.
   

Qualifications

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Nonprofit Management, Business Administration, Event Management, or a related field (Master’s preferred).
• 5-7 years of progressive experience in event management, fundraising, or institutional advancement, with at least 2 years in a leadership role.
• Proven success in overseeing large-scale events and fundraising initiatives.

Skills and Competencies

• Strong leadership skills with a proven ability to manage and inspire teams.
• Strategic thinker with a track record of aligning events with organizational priorities.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Excellent project management and organizational abilities, including budgeting and resource allocation.
• Proficiency in event management software and fundraising platforms.

Personal Attributes

• Passionate commitment to the Orthodox Union's mission and values, with a specific focus on supporting the Jewish community.
• High emotional intelligence and the ability to remain composed under pressure.

• Collaborative team player who can work across departments and with external stakeholders effectively.

Work Schedule: 

This is a full-time position that operates with three in-office days and two remote days each week. Jewish and legal holidays off as well as additional vacation and sick time.
  

• Paid sick days
• Paid vacation days
• Paid Jewish and most Federal holidays
• Paid parental leave
• Short Fridays to accommodate for the Sabbath
• Free life and disability insurance)
• 403(b) retirement plan, which the OU will contribute 5% of your wage towards retirement savings after you contribute at least 2% (only eligible after 3 years of continuous service