Special Events Manager

Job Description

Job Description

Join Forever Balboa Park and help us safeguard and enhance the beauty and legacy of one of San Diego's most cherished landmarks through the power of philanthropy!

Forever Balboa Park’s mission is to improve and advance

Balboa Park so people and nature thrive together.

Job Summary:

Forever Balboa Park is seeking a dynamic and organized Special Events Manager to lead the planning and execution of a diverse portfolio of events that deepen engagement, build community, and strengthen philanthropic support for Balboa Park. This role is a key member of the Institutional Advancement team and plays a vital part in ensuring that Forever Balboa Park events — from donor gatherings to community celebrations — reflect the organization’s mission, values, and commitment to excellence.

The Special Events Manager oversees the creative, logistical, and operational aspects of events across the organization. While the role is primarily focused on donor cultivation and fundraising events, the portfolio also includes community stewardship events and support for emerging event-related initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

Event Planning & Execution

• Plan and execute a year-round calendar of events including fundraising receptions, donor cultivation events, planned giving gatherings, and internal and community appreciation events.
• Manage all event logistics, including venue selection, contract negotiation, permits, vendors, equipment, and staffing. Oversee on-site production including setup, vendor coordination, and breakdown.
• Provide strategic input on creative elements such as décor, printed materials, A/V, speakers, and attendee experience.
• Coordinate with cross-departmental partners to support new and evolving event opportunities, including the rental and activation of Park spaces for external functions.
• Conduct event debriefs and prepare post-event reports with outcomes and recommendations.

Budget Management & Revenue Strategy

· Assist in developing and managing event budgets, ensuring financial accountability.

· Identify opportunities to reduce costs and increase revenue through sponsorships, vendor partnerships, and in-kind contributions.

Marketing & Communications Coordination

· Partner with the Marketing and Communications team to develop materials such as invitations, signage, programs, and digital assets.

· Maintain event webpages, RSVP platforms, and email communications in line with organizational branding.

· Support photography, video, and storytelling efforts that amplify Forever Balboa Park’s mission.

Database & Administrative Support

· Manage guest lists, RSVPs, event-related gifts, and follow-up communications using Raiser’s Edge and other systems.

Donor Engagement & Fundraising Support

• Collaborate with the Director of Institutional Advancement and the Development team to support event-related fundraising goals.
• Assist with sponsor outreach and fulfillment, including donor recognition and in-kind tracking.
• Ensure guest experiences align with donor stewardship and engagement strategies.
  
  

Cross-Departmental Collaboration

· Work closely with colleagues in park improvement, operations, marketing, and community engagement to support seamless and compliant event execution.

· Serve as a point of contact for internal initiatives and new event-related opportunities involving park spaces.

Qualifications

· 3–5 years of experience in event planning, preferably in nonprofit fundraising or donor engagement.

· Strong organizational and project management skills with a proven ability to manage multiple deadlines.

· Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to engage a wide range of stakeholders.

· Experience in on-site event management, including live troubleshooting.

· Proficiency in CRM systems (Raiser’s Edge preferred), Google Workspace, and event management platforms.

· Flexibility to work evenings and weekends as required for events.

Preferred Skills:

· Experience managing large-scale events and working with corporate sponsors or in-kind contributors.

· Familiarity with venue rental processes or community partnership coordination.

· A passion for public parks, civic engagement, and Forever Balboa Park’s mission.

Forever Balboa Park is an equal opportunity employer. Forever Balboa Park is committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all members of its staff, visitors, volunteers, subcontractors, vendors, and donors. We do not and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, gender identity, gender expression, age, national origin or ancestry, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status, in any of our activities or operations. These activities include but are not limited to hiring and firing of staff, selection of volunteers and vendors, and provision of services. We will take Affirmative Action measures to ensure against discrimination in employment, recruitment, advertisements for employment, compensation, termination, upgrading, promotions, and other conditions of employment against any employee or job applicant.

Forever Balboa Park’s mission is to improve and advance Balboa Park so people and nature thrive together. Forever Balboa Park welcomes people of all backgrounds, identities, and beliefs to join us in achieving our mission. We place diversity, equity, and inclusion at the heart of our recruiting efforts, and strive to build a culture centered on mutual respect, equal treatment, and the opportunity to succeed.

Company Description

Forever Balboa Park’s mission is to improve and advance Balboa Park so people and nature thrive together. Forever Balboa Park welcomes people of all backgrounds, identities, and beliefs to join us in achieving our mission. We place diversity, equity, and inclusion at the heart of our recruiting efforts, and strive to build a culture centered on mutual respect, equal treatment, and the opportunity to succeed.