Fundraising Events Specialist

If you're highly organized, creative, and enjoy collaborating with others to create meaningful experiences, consider joining the Indianapolis Zoo as a Fundraising Events Specialist. You'll play an important role in coordinating the Zoo's premier fundraising events, including Zoobilation—the largest single-night fundraiser in Indiana—as well as Brewfari, the Elegant Vintages International Wine Auction, and donor appreciation events. Ideal candidates are committed to advancing the Zoo's mission to protect nature and inspire people to care for our world.

About the role

This is an entry-level position requiring at least four (4) years of professional experience with special event management or volunteer leadership. The successful candidate will have a polished, professional image, a very outgoing personality, commitment to accuracy, strong problem-solving skills, and an extraordinary attention to detail. Demonstrated experience and ability to multi-task, handle high-pressure situations, and meet tight deadlines is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Assists in planning of Zoobilation, Brewfari, Elegant Vintages International Wine Auction, and other events as assigned.
• Organizes committee meetings and volunteers.
• Prepares fundraising event budgets and progress reports.
• Maintains records and databases related to special events, including entering reservations in Raiser's Edge database.
• Plans, attends, and actively participates in regular meetings of the fundraising event volunteer committees.
• Assists Special Events Manager in all aspects of event prep and day-of activities.
• Serves as a liaison between the Zoo, vendors, suppliers, sponsors, donors, underwriters, restaurants, etc.
• Must have the ability to transport and move items up to twenty (20) pounds frequently and up to fifty (50) pounds occasionally.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in fundraising, event management, or marketing.
• Minimum of four years of professional experience with special event management or volunteer leadership.
• Predominantly indoor environmental conditions, although some exposure to outdoor conditions, including inclement weather, cold and hot temperatures, and humidity.
• Ability to detect, assess, identify, and observe surroundings to make sound judgments, along with the ability to communicate verbally, comprehend, and decipher information accurately, using a telephone.

Schedule

This is a full-time, 40 hours per week position that will require flexibility to work evening and weekend shifts as needed. During some special events, scheduled working hours may be extended up to twelve (12) consecutive hours in a 24-hour period.