Director of Events - Development

Director of Events – Development

Boston, MA (Hybrid) | Full-Time | $119,000 – $140,000/year

Lead a high-impact, donor-centered events strategy at a mission-driven nonprofit

A leading nonprofit organization in Boston is seeking an experienced Director of Events to drive strategy and execution for high-profile fundraising events. This leadership role sits within the Development department and will oversee a growing team of event professionals, manage key donor relationships, and collaborate cross-functionally to align events with overall fundraising and engagement goals.

This is a hybrid position requiring regular on-site and in-office presence.

Position Overview

Reporting to the Executive Director of Development, the Director of Events is responsible for designing and managing a comprehensive portfolio of donor engagement events. From signature galas to intimate cultivation dinners, the role is both strategic and hands-on—requiring a dynamic leader who can drive revenue, coach high-performing teams, and deliver exceptional donor experiences.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a strategic events plan to support revenue goals, donor engagement, and sponsorships
  

• Collaborate with Major Gifts and Corporate Partnerships teams to align event programming with fundraising objectives
  

• Lead a team of event specialists, consultants, and contractors in the planning and delivery of events of all sizes
  

• Oversee a small portfolio of major donors connected to signature events, including solicitation and stewardship
  

• Create and track event metrics to evaluate ROI, inform decision-making, and optimize performance
  

• Manage event committees, co-chairs, and board engagement in collaboration with other development leaders
  

• Coordinate hospital/executive leader involvement in events, including briefings and talking points
  

• Continuously improve the guest experience—from registration to post-event follow-up
  

• Deliver event support and strategic thinking across the organization’s broader health system and affiliate entities
  

• Contribute new ideas for event innovation and expand programming aligned with evolving organizational goals
  

Requirements

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree (required)
  

• 10+ years of nonprofit event management experience, with 8+ years managing teams and driving revenue
  

• Experience in healthcare, higher education, or other complex nonprofit environments
  

• Proven ability to lead multi-stakeholder teams and deliver results in high-pressure environments
  

Preferred Experience & Skills

• Fundraising experience in large, matrixed nonprofit organizations
  

• Proficiency in fundraising and event platforms such as Raiser’s Edge NXT, GiveSmart, Whova , or similar
  

• Strong written and verbal communication skills with executive presence
  

• Ability to multitask, adapt, and manage competing priorities with attention to detail
  

• Creativity, resourcefulness, and a proactive approach to solving challenges