Special Events Manager

The Organization

The Columbus Symphony has served as central Ohio’s flagship music organization since 1951. Our musicians, conductors, chorus, and world-renowned guest artists enrich the central Ohio community through extraordinary talent, passion, dedication, and the highest standards of musicianship. Guided by the artistic vision of Music Director Rossen Milanov, the Columbus Symphony offers four programming “brands” – Masterworks, Pops, Picnic with the Pops, and Education/Community Engagement.

This segmented approach, innovative within the American orchestra industry, is helping the Columbus Symphony to reach new, younger, and more diverse audiences.

Do you thrive on creating exceptional experiences that connect people to a cause?

Are you a detail-oriented planner who loves turning ideas into meaningful, mission-driven events?

Do you excel at balancing creativity, logistics, and relationship-building in a fast-paced environment?

If so, this is your opportunity to play a key role in advancing the mission of the Columbus Symphony by leading the strategy, planning, and execution of fundraising and engagement events that inspire generosity and deepen community connection.

The Special Events Manager, a member of the Development team reporting to the Chief Development Officer, is responsible for the planning, coordination, and execution of all fundraising, cultivation, and stewardship events and receptions, including the annual gala that support the mission of the Columbus Symphony.

This position ensures that each event delivers an exceptional guest experience, meets fundraising and relationship goals, and aligns with the organization’s strategic priorities. The Special Events Manager collaborates closely with development, marketing, and operations teams as well as volunteers and vendors to bring events from concept to completion.

• Learn the Columbus Symphony’s event portfolio, budget, and donor engagement goals.
• Meet with the Chief Development Officer, development team members, marketing staff, and event volunteers to understand current event processes and areas for improvement.
• Review vendor relationships, sponsorship packages, and event management system; document and share recommendations with supervisor.

• Plan, organize, and manage all aspects of special events, including the annual Gala, donor/volunteer appreciation events, stakeholder programs, and fundraising initiatives.
• Develop event timelines, budgets, and work plans to ensure goals are achieved on time and within budget.
• Oversee vendor selection, contracts, and logistics (venue, catering, décor, entertainment, AV).
• Work with outside consultant/s to ensure execution of signature events.
• Measures of Success:
  Events executed on schedule and within ±5% of budget; post-event satisfaction rating of 90%+ among attendees and stakeholders.

• Collaborate with development team to secure corporate sponsor ships, in-kind donations, and event revenue.
• Assist in creating sponsorship proposals, benefit packages, and follow-up reports.
• Ensure all sponsor benefits are fulfilled and recognized appropriately.
• Measures of Success:
  Achieves or exceeds event fundraising targets; 90% sponsor renewal or satisfaction rate.

• Partner with the marketing and communications team to develop event branding, invitations, and digital campaigns.
• Oversee guest lists and RSVPs, ensuring a seamless experience for all attendees.
• Measures of Success:
  Event attendance goals met or exceeded; positive feedback on marketing materials and event communications.

• Liaise with volunteer groups including the League, the Friends, and Picnic with the Pops volunteers.
• Recruit, train, and supervise volunteers and staff support for event operations.
• Provide clear guidance, roles, and on-site leadership.
• Measures of Success: 100% volunteer roles filled by event date; positive feedback from volunteers and staff post-event.

• Lead the successful execution of the Symphony’s…