Let’s get started
By clicking ‘Next’, I agree to the Terms of Service
and Privacy Policy
Jobs / Job page
Annual Gifts & Special Events Manager image - Rise Careers
Job details

Annual Gifts & Special Events Manager

About The Paramount Theater:

The nonprofit Paramount Theater, Charlottesville’s premier performing arts venue located on the historic Downtown Mall, is dedicated to providing exceptional performances and events that inspire and engage audiences. As a nonprofit organization, we rely on philanthropic support to sustain our mission, and we are seeking a dynamic Annual Gifts & Special Events Manager to help us achieve our fundraising goals.

The Paramount Theater offers a competitive salary based on ability and experience, as well as a comprehensive benefits package, including:

  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • Generous paid time off and paid parental leave
  • Paid parking
  • HSA and 401k plans with company contributions

The Position:

Our people make us great! This role will work closely with the Director of Development and other team members to successfully execute the annual giving program and fundraising events. This position blends behind-the-scenes strategic planning with front-line donor engagement, ensuring that fundraising goals are met while maintaining strong relationships with donors, sponsors, and community partners.

Schedule:

This is a full-time position with a variable schedule based on special event needs, requiring flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and occasional holidays. The average workweek will be 40 hours, with flex or comp time when additional hours are required during peak periods or special events.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Cultivating, Soliciting, and Stewarding Annual Gifts (50%)

  • Develop and execute a strategic and sophisticated annual giving plan, including membership renewals, annual appeals, and direct mail/electronic campaigns.
  • Analyze donor trends through monthly reports and adjust strategies accordingly.
  • Support the Director of Development with grant applications, compliance, and research of new funding opportunities.
  • Implement strategies to convert ticket buyers into donors and identify new prospects.
  • Conduct donor outreach through meetings, presentations, and solicitations.
  • Oversee donor stewardship efforts, including acknowledgments, recognition materials, and special engagement activities.
  • Participate in donor events, including hosting stakeholders in the Founders Lounge and delivering stage remarks at select performances.

2. Special Events (30%)

  • Manage the annual Grand Marquee Gala, ensuring revenue goals are met.
  • Oversee event planning, including sponsor solicitations, committee engagement, vendor coordination, and marketing materials.
  • Collaborate with the Development team and other staff to organize donor appreciation events and membership drives.
  • Support Communications and Development teams in achieving Playbill advertising goals, securing both returning and new advertisers.

3. Reporting & Database Management (20%)

  • Develop a working knowledge of Tessitura to track donor activity and generate reports.
  • Maintain accurate records of donor interactions, event attendance, and campaign results.
  • Assist with data management tasks, such as mail merges and response tracking.

Position Preferences / Requirements :

  • 3+ years of experience in fundraising, event planning, or nonprofit development.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to engage donors and cultivate lasting relationships.
  • Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
  • Experience using donor databases (Tessitura preferred), Microsoft Office, and Google Suite.
  • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in a related field; CFRE or CFRM certification preferred.
  • A self-starter with a hands-on, proactive approach to fundraising and event management.
  • Knowledge of the performing arts industry is a plus.

Physical Demands:

  • Standing and walking for extended periods during events.
  • Lifting and transporting event materials, including decorations, auction items, and marketing collateral (up to 50 pounds).
  • Assisting with event setup and breakdown as needed.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and priority will be given to applications received by March 11, 2025.

The Paramount Theater is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages individuals from diverse backgrounds to apply.

Average salary estimate

$60000 / YEARLY (est.)
min
max
$50000K
$70000K

If an employer mentions a salary or salary range on their job, we display it as an "Employer Estimate". If a job has no salary data, Rise displays an estimate if available.

What You Should Know About Annual Gifts & Special Events Manager, The Paramount Theater

The Paramount Theater is searching for an innovative Annual Gifts & Special Events Manager to join our passionate team dedicated to delivering exceptional experiences in the heart of Charlottesville. In this pivotal role, you'll collaborate closely with our Director of Development and other team members, creatively enhancing our annual giving program and planning fundraising events that resonate with our community. Your tasks will range from developing a strategic giving plan to cultivating lasting relationships with donors and sponsors. This position not only requires strategic planning but also hands-on engagement with our incredible supporters, ensuring we achieve our ambitious fundraising goals while spreading an appreciation for the performing arts. You'll have the chance to oversee charming events like our annual Grand Marquee Gala and participate in donor appreciation gatherings, creating memorable experiences for everyone involved. With a blend of analyzing donor trends, managing event logistics, and reporting on outcomes, each day brings new challenges! If you're an organized, proactive individual with a passion for making a difference in the nonprofit sector, we want to hear from you. Along with a competitive salary, we provide generous benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off, and a 401k plan. Join us at The Paramount Theater and help us inspire and ignite the love for the arts!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Annual Gifts & Special Events Manager Role at The Paramount Theater
What are the key responsibilities of the Annual Gifts & Special Events Manager at The Paramount Theater?

As the Annual Gifts & Special Events Manager at The Paramount Theater, you will be responsible for cultivating donor relationships, executing the annual giving plan, managing significant events like the Grand Marquee Gala, and maintaining accurate donor database records. You'll work closely with the Director of Development, engaging with donors and sponsors to ensure fundraising goals are met while also analyzing trends to enhance our fundraising strategies.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What qualifications are required for the Annual Gifts & Special Events Manager position at The Paramount Theater?

To be successful in the Annual Gifts & Special Events Manager role at The Paramount Theater, candidates should have at least 3 years of experience in fundraising, event planning, or nonprofit development, along with strong interpersonal skills. Familiarity with donor databases like Tessitura, a Bachelor's degree, and CFRE or CFRM certification are preferred. A proactive and organized approach to managing projects is also essential for this role.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How does the Annual Gifts & Special Events Manager engage with donors at The Paramount Theater?

The Annual Gifts & Special Events Manager at The Paramount Theater engages with donors through personalized outreach, including meetings, presentations, and solicitations. You'll also oversee donor stewardship efforts, organize appreciation events, and deliver remarks at select performances, all aimed at cultivating long-term, meaningful relationships with our supporters.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What kind of events will the Annual Gifts & Special Events Manager be responsible for at The Paramount Theater?

In the role of Annual Gifts & Special Events Manager at The Paramount Theater, you will manage significant events such as the annual Grand Marquee Gala, donor appreciation gatherings, and membership drives. You will coordinate various aspects of these events, including sponsorship solicitation, vendor management, marketing materials, and ensuring revenue goals are successfully met.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What physical demands are associated with the Annual Gifts & Special Events Manager role at The Paramount Theater?

The Annual Gifts & Special Events Manager role at The Paramount Theater involves physical demands such as standing and walking for extended periods during events, lifting and transporting materials like decorations and auction items (up to 50 pounds), and assisting with event setup and breakdown. Being physically prepared for these tasks is essential for ensuring successful events.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Common Interview Questions for Annual Gifts & Special Events Manager
What inspired you to apply for the Annual Gifts & Special Events Manager position at The Paramount Theater?

In responding to this question, it's important to connect your passion for the performing arts and nonprofit sector with The Paramount Theater's mission. Discuss how their commitment to engage and inspire audiences aligns with your values and career aspirations.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Can you describe your experience with fundraising and donor engagement?

Detail your specific experiences in fundraising and donor engagement, noting any successful campaigns you've led or participated in. Highlight strategies you used to engage donors and maintain relationships, showcasing your understanding of donor motivations.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How do you handle multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced work environment?

Demonstrate your organizational skills by discussing specific methods you use, such as project management tools or prioritization techniques. Providing an example of a time you successfully managed competing deadlines would also strengthen your answer.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What strategies do you use to cultivate major donors?

Share your approaches to identifying and engaging major donors, such as personalized communication, relationship-building activities, and how you demonstrate the impact of their contributions. Tailoring your response to reflect the environment of The Paramount Theater can be beneficial.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How would you evaluate the success of a fundraising event?

Explain the metrics you consider essential to evaluating a fundraising event's success, such as money raised, donor engagement, and participant feedback. Include how you would use these insights for future planning.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What role does teamwork play in your approach as an Annual Gifts & Special Events Manager?

Reflect on your experience in teamwork and collaboration, especially in event planning and donor engagement. Emphasize the importance of communication and collaboration with various departments to successfully achieve fundraising goals.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How do you stay informed about trends in the nonprofit and fundraising sector?

Mention reputable sources, such as nonprofit newsletters, webinars, or industry conferences you follow to stay current with trends and best practices in fundraising, which can include modern donor engagement methods and innovative event planning techniques.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Describe a challenging fundraising situation you faced and how you overcame it.

Provide a brief narrative detailing a specific challenge you encountered in fundraising, the strategies you employed to address it, and the positive outcomes that resulted from your efforts, showcasing your problem-solving skills.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What tools and technologies have you utilized in your previous roles to manage fundraising efforts?

Discuss specific tools or platforms you have used for donor management, campaign tracking, or event planning. If you have experience with Tessitura or similar systems, be sure to highlight it as it is relevant to the role.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How do you approach building a culture of philanthropy within an organization?

Discuss your philosophy on philanthropy and the importance of ingraining it into the organization's culture. Share specific initiatives you've led or participated in that encouraged a positive outlook on giving among staff and stakeholders.

Join Rise to see the full answer
MATCH
Calculating your matching score...
DEPARTMENTS
SENIORITY LEVEL REQUIREMENT
TEAM SIZE
No info
HQ LOCATION
No info
EMPLOYMENT TYPE
Full-time, on-site
DATE POSTED
March 14, 2025

Subscribe to Rise newsletter

Risa star 🔮 Hi, I'm Risa! Your AI
Career Copilot
Want to see a list of jobs tailored to
you, just ask me below!