Events Manager

Description

Type: Full-Time

Reports to: Development Director

Office

Location:

224 W. Hill Street Ste 410, Chicago, IL 60610

Background: Guided by the experiences of those living with mental health conditions and rooted in equity, NAMI Chicago educates to fight stigma and discrimination, fiercely advocates for our community, and shares hope, connection and expertise with people on their mental health journey.

NAMI Chicago is seeking a dynamic and adaptable Events Manager to support our fundraising efforts. The Events Manager will be responsible for project managing our two major events, Light the Darkness and NAMIWalks, coordinating with our Communications/Marketing staff on all events‑related communications including mass emails and social media content, and supporting the Development Department on all other fundraising activities.

• Lead the planning and execution of NAMI Chicago’s annual gala, Light the Darkness, driving strategy, timelines, and overall event success in alignment with organizational fundraising goals.
• Oversee all event logistics, including venue selection, vendor procurement and management (catering, A/V, décor, etc.), budget tracking, and run‑of‑show development.
• Develop and execute a comprehensive, multi‑channel communications strategy (email, social media, and digital platforms) to maximize attendance, donor engagement, and revenue.
• Direct the creation and production of all event collateral, including invitations, sponsorship materials, presentations, and on‑site signage, ensuring brand consistency and high‑quality output.
• Manage relationships with key internal and external stakeholders, including senior leadership, sponsors, and vendors, ensuring clear communication and strong partnership engagement.
• Lead on‑site event execution, troubleshooting in real time, and ensuring an exceptional guest experience.
• Analyze event performance, including revenue, attendance, and engagement metrics, and provide recommendations for continuous improvement.

• Serve as the project lead for NAMI Chicago’s annual NAMIWalks, overseeing all aspects of planning, execution, and post‑event evaluation.
• Develop and manage comprehensive project plans, including timelines, budgets, and vendor coordination, ensuring all components are delivered efficiently and effectively.
• Design and implement an integrated communications and marketing strategy to drive participant recruitment, team fundraising, and community engagement.
• Oversee the development and production of all event materials, including participant resources, promotional assets, and day‑of signage.
• In partnership with the Sr. Development Associate, ensure a well‑supported event through volunteer recruitment, training, and management.
• Cultivate and manage relationships with corporate partners, including the presenting sponsor, ensuring fulfillment of sponsorship benefits and meaningful engagement opportunities.
• Coordinate cross‑functionally with internal teams (development, communications, programs) to align messaging and maximize impact.
• Monitor and report on key performance indicators, including fundraising totals, participation rates, and engagement metrics, using insights to inform future strategy.

• Provide strategic leadership and execution support for additional fundraising events, including Board of Directors, Associate Board, and third‑party fundraisers.
• Partner with development leadership to identify opportunities for revenue growth, donor engagement, and sponsorship expansion.
• Oversee donor communications and stewardship strategies related to events, ensuring timely, personalized, and mission‑driven engagement.
• Support pipeline development through prospect research, sponsor cultivation, and in‑kind partnership development.
• Collaborate with Sr. Development Associate to ensure accurate tracking, reporting, and analysis of fundraising activities within CRM systems, maintaining data integrity and supporting organizational goals.
• Other duties as assigned.