Director, Signature Events

About the Organization

The National Multiple Sclerosis Society mobilizes people and resources to drive research for a cure and to address the challenges of everyone affected by MS.

The Director, Signature Events leads the planning and execution of high‑impact donor events such as galas, luncheons, and auctions within a regional portfolio. With full accountability for campaign revenue goals, the Director drives fundraising through donor solicitation, sponsorship development, and event experience strategy. In partnership with the AVP, this role ensures brand‑aligned execution and high‑return events while modeling fundraising excellence and coordinating event activity across the market.

West Region – Arizona, New Mexico, Nevada Chapter. Requires regular, in‑person attendance at meetings, constituent interactions, and events with up to approximately 50% travel. Remote work may occur from a home office or National MS Society workspace in Phoenix, AZ.

• Estimated range: $70,000‑$75,000, final offers based on location and experience.
• Paid Time Off, Planned Paid Holidays
• 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan with Society match
• Commuter Benefit Plan
• Comprehensive Health & Welfare benefits – Medical, Dental, Vision, Flex Spending Accounts, Life Insurance, Disability Coverage
• Spring Health Membership for therapy and professional coaching

• Lead execution of gala, auction, and social fundraising events, ensuring revenue goals are met through corporate sponsor ships, ticket sales, donor activation, and major gift solicitation.
• Serve as the market’s lead fundraiser for assigned campaigns, prioritizing donor cultivation and revenue outcomes over logistical planning.
• Translate national models into compelling local experiences that align with brand, budget, and mission objectives.
• Partner with the AVP to report on pacing, surface risks, and adjust execution to achieve goals.
• Foster cross‑team alignment by coordinating frontline activity, reinforcing shared accountability, and supporting peer fundraisers.
• Use CRM and campaign dashboards to inform decisions, track performance, and continuously improve tactics.
• Support coordination of fundraising activity among peer staff (e.g., silent auctions, donor outreach, table hosts) to promote shared accountability and donor‑centric execution.

• Progressive experience in fundraising, donor relations, or nonprofit development, with a proven track record of meeting or exceeding fundraising goals.
• Demonstrated success in managing donor pipelines, cultivating major gifts, and executing multi‑channel fundraising campaigns.
• Strong leadership and project management skills, with experience supervising staff or volunteers and coordinating cross‑functional initiatives.
• Proficiency in CRM systems (e.g., Raiser's Edge, Salesforce) and data analysis to inform strategy and reporting.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and inspire donors, board members, and community stakeholders.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to develop and implement long‑term fundraising plans aligned with organizational goals.
• Experience planning and executing donor events, stewardship programs, and grant proposals.

The National MS Society is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We strive to create a workforce that reflects the communities we serve and where everyone feels empowered to bring their authentic selves to work.