Strategic Special Events Manager for Galas & Fundraising

Smithsonian; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 85,000 - 94,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Transit/Commuter Benefits

Job summary

The Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, part of the Smithsonian Institution, seeks a Special Events Manager to lead planning and execution of fundraising galas, ceremonies and official visits in Washington, DC. Reporting to the Director of Advancement, you will develop event plans, manage budgets, coordinate vendors and ensure compliance with Smithsonian policies while enhancing donor engagement.

This role requires a Bachelor's degree and 5–7 years of related experience, with excellent

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree and 5–7 years of related professional experience.
• Experience planning and executing special events and galas, including logistics coordination and protocol compliance.
• Ability to collaborate with senior leadership and diverse stakeholders with discretion and tact.

Responsibilities

• Plans, coordinates, and executes complex special events and galas, ceremonies, and official visits.
• Serves as liaison with internal and external partners to ensure successful events.
• Develops event plans including logistics, timelines, seating, decor, catering, AV, and security.
• Monitors budgets, negotiates contracts, and reconciles post-event results.
• Recruits, trains, and mentors event staff and volunteers.
• Directs onsite operations and ensures professional execution in line with museum standards.

Skills

Event budgeting

Stakeholder management

Logistics coordination

Budget reconciliation

Fundraising experience

Leadership and mentoring

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Job description

The Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, part of the Smithsonian Institution, seeks a Special Events Manager to lead planning and execution of fundraising galas, ceremonies and official visits in Washington, DC. Reporting to the Director of Advancement, you will develop event plans, manage budgets, coordinate vendors and ensure compliance with Smithsonian policies while enhancing donor engagement.

This role requires a Bachelor's degree and 5–7 years of related experience, with excellent