Impactful Events Director: Fundraising & Engagement

City Year; Los Angeles (CA); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

401(k) plan

Paid time off

Organization holidays

Job summary

City Year Los Angeles is seeking an Events Director to oversee key external and internal events that engage the community, raise funds, and support more students in LA. You will lead fundraising events, design compelling donor experiences, and translate organizational messaging into immersive event concepts.

The role requires 5–10 years of event management experience, strong leadership, and the ability to manage budgets, timelines, and cross‑functional teams.

Qualifications

• 5–10 years of professional experience, including at least 3 years in event management, external engagement, or experiential marketing.
• Proven success leading high‑quality events from concept through execution, including fundraising, donor, corporate, and community engagement events.
• Strong project and budget management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities, timelines, vendors, and stakeholders simultaneously.
• Ability to establish clear systems, workflows, and accountability structures that support effective collaboration and strong execution.
• Authorized documentation to work in the United States of America
• Criminal background history clearance to work with school‑age children, depending on the position
• Willingness to work occasional evenings and weekends in support of events and external engagement activities.

Responsibilities

• Produce and coordinate key fundraisers, events, and initiatives throughout the year such as the annual Spring Break gala, donor salons, and 20th anniversary celebrations.
• Lead the creative direction and experience design of events, ensuring each experience brings City Year Los Angeles’ impact to life in compelling, immersive, and authentic ways.
• Translate organizational messaging into cohesive event themes, environments, and storytelling moments in partnership with Marketing & Communications team.
• Oversee execution of a flagship annual gala serving 800-1000 guests and generating $1M+ in revenue, including sponsor integration, VIP experiences, and live program production.
• Partner with Corporate Partnerships team to design and deliver high-quality sponsorship activations that align with partner goals and enhance the guest experience.
• In partnership with the Marketing & Communications team and design consultants, support the development of all event collateral including invitations, event signage, and sponsorship materials.
• Ensure seamless event attendee and staff experience at all City Year Los Angeles events.
• Develop event staffing plans and support the training of AmeriCorps Members, staff and volunteers on roles and logistics.
• Prepare and manage events budgets to ensure effective use of funds at or underbudget.
• Secure necessary venues, obtain quotes, negotiate and secure vendor contracts, and monitor vendor performance to ensure City Year receives exceptional service and value.

Skills

Strategic Thinking

Project Management

Accountability

Collaboration

Communication

Learning

Job description

City Year Los Angeles is seeking an Events Director to oversee key external and internal events that engage the community, raise funds, and support more students in LA. You will lead fundraising events, design compelling donor experiences, and translate organizational messaging into immersive event concepts.

The role requires 5–10 years of event management experience, strong leadership, and the ability to manage budgets, timelines, and cross‑functional teams.