Manager of Special Events

Join to apply for the Manager of Special Events role at The Cleveland Orchestra
.

The Cleveland Orchestra is seeking a Manager of Special Events
, who will be responsible for the strategic planning, execution, and evaluation of high-impact fundraising and stewardship events within a 60–70 event annual portfolio. This role leads the production of major events such as the Blossom Summer Soirée, Winter Spree, and Forte, and supports large-scale fundraisers including the annual Gala and Florida-based events. The Manager ensures all events align with donor engagement goals, are executed with excellence, and remain within budget.

This range is provided by The Cleveland Orchestra. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.

Base pay range

$55,000.00/yr - $70,000.00/yr

• Fundraising Event Planning: Independently manage three major fundraising events with projected net revenue of $225K–$260K. Develop timelines, fundraising strategies, and operational plans. Oversee vendor contracts and guest logistics.
• Event Production & Logistics: Lead planning and execution of approximately 45 Tier 1 stewardship events annually. Manage all logistics including venue booking, catering, AV, décor, and staffing. Support corporate activations and plan Florida-based donor events.
• Volunteer Leadership: Serve as liaison to Blossom Friends and Friends of The Cleveland Orchestra. Support volunteer-led initiatives and manage seasonal operations of the Blossom Friends Information Booth.
• Vendor & Budget Oversight: Negotiate vendor contracts, monitor budgets, and collaborate with Finance to ensure fiscal accountability.
• Departmental Coordination & Reporting: Align event strategy with Development goals. Maintain planning documents and provide regular updates to leadership.
• Musician Engagement & Logistics: Hire and manage Orchestra musicians for donor events. Oversee performance logistics and ensure timely payments.
• Post-Event Analysis: Conduct evaluations, prepare reports, and recommend improvements to enhance future event impact and ROI.

• Bachelor’s degree required
• Minimum 4 years of experience in event planning or nonprofit operations
• Strong skills in vendor management, budgeting, and logistics
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Asana, and CRM systems (e.g., Tessitura)
• Excellent communication and organizational abilities
• Ability to work evenings and weekends as needed, and travel to Florida and NYC for events

• Knowledge of event design (floral, lighting, tablescapes, catering)
• Familiarity with classical music and chamber repertoire
• Experience coordinating performances with professional musicians

We offer a competitive salary of $55,000-$70,000, very generous medical and dental plan benefits, 403(b) plan with employer match, hybrid remote/onsite work schedule, complimentary concert tickets, and the opportunity to work with a world-renowned Orchestra.

Mid-Senior level

Full-time

Management and Manufacturing

Non-profit Organizations

Location:

Cleveland, OH