Event Manager I

Overview

As an Event Manager you will manage logistics and on-site execution for Global Philanthropic Engagement (GPE) conferences, meetings, events, and special activities, coordinating with internal and cross-functional teams, venues, and vendors to ensure seamless delivery. At this career level, you will independently coordinate and oversee the successful implementation of events or participate as a team member for major, complex initiatives. The role supports contracting, budgeting, timeline management, and the maintenance and improvement of event intake systems and processes, as well as KPI/ROI tracking. You will balance strategic objectives with detailed execution, contribute to defined attendee experience components, and demonstrate adaptability within a fast-paced, dynamic environment. You may provide coaching or guidance to other specialists.

What will you do?

• Maintain a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Be a consistent witness for Jesus Christ, maintaining a courteous, Christ-like attitude in dealing with people within and outside of Compassion, and faithfully uphold Compassion’s ministry in prayer.
• Act as an advocate to raise the awareness of the needs of children. Understand Christ’s mandate to protect children. Commit to and prioritizes child protection considerations in all decision-making, tasks and activities across the ministry. Abide by all behavioral expectations in Compassion’s Statement of Commitment to Child Protection and Code of Conduct. Report any concerns of abuse, neglect or exploitation of children through Compassion’s internal reporting process and appropriately support responses to incidents if they occur.
• Uphold and engage in Compassion’s core Cultural Behaviors.
• Implement event strategy through the coordination of meeting and event components and logistics as directed by leadership.
• Coordinate and execute meetings, events, and special activities, including but not limited to event task lists and timelines, invitations and marketing pieces, registration details, accommodations, transportation, communication, vendor and other event resources, tracking, and reporting.
• Liaise with external partners and coordinate the contract process for meetings, conferences, and events; research event sites and venues, communicate with vendors, facilitate agreements for managing transportation, meals and lodging, speakers, audio-visual support, etc.
• Monitor expectations for the success of events. Maintain meeting and event intake systems for GPE staff, events calendar, and processes for KPI and ROI tracking for events. Follow established ROI strategy to assess success using standard event measurement practices and tools. Execute pre- and post-event surveys and implement action plans in response to feedback.
• Partner closely with GPE staff to provide strong service and support to donor-facing teams, strengthening donor engagement and contributing to revenue outcomes while supporting event-related workflows, expectations, and relationship management.
• Execute attendee experience components as defined by leadership, ensuring all guest-facing elements are delivered with excellence.
• Collaborate and communicate effectively with GPE and cross-functional staff to ensure smooth coordination and strong working relationships throughout each event.
• Coordinate with GPE and cross-functional teams within Compassion to facilitate the development of resources for events, meetings, conferences, activities, and special events. May further manage timelines regarding the preparation of all materials for marketing, mailings, and handouts as well as media to be used at conferences and events.
• Serve as a communication link between GPE and hotel and venue staff.
• May coach and provide expertise to other professionals and support staff in the event relations discipline. Some administrative work may be required, including but not limited to preparation and management of complex invitation lists, review and preparation of vendor invoices, payments, expense reports, contract administration, transportation and travel arrangements, general recordkeeping, and documentation.

What do you bring?

• Bachelor's Degree in a related field.
• Seven years relevant experience working in this or a related field with prior corporate events experience required.
• Cvent software platform competency or experience is preferred.
• Current Certified Meeting Planner (CMP) certification preferred.
• A self-starter mindset and intuitive judgment in navigating dynamic event needs, proactively identifying solutions and taking appropriate action with minimal oversight.
• Ability to work independently within a small, high-performing team, effectively prioritizing responsibilities, managing time, and advancing projects
• Ability to balance strategic perspective with detailed execution, aligning logistical plans with event goals, donor experience objectives, and the evolving priorities of the team, department, and organization
• Professionalism, mature judgment, and strong emotional intelligence in all donor-facing interactions, displaying polished communication, situational awareness, and the ability to adapt demeanor and approach appropriately to the context
• Flexibility and resilience within a dynamic, fast-changing event environment, operating effectively within established structures while adapting to unexpected challenges in a steady and solutions-oriented manner.
• Ability to sit, stand, and walk for up to between 8-12 hours per day on site at meetings and events.
• Ability to travel up to 20% of normal schedule.

Why work here?

• The mission: Join a team that is motivated to release children from poverty in Jesus’ name.
• Our benefits: Receive generous paid time off, 10% contribution to a 403(b) retirement fund on top of your salary, excellent healthcare coverage, free short-term professional counseling, and more.
• Spiritual growth: Participate in regular chapel services, prayer groups, and department devotionals.