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Manager of Special Events

The Cleveland Orchestra

The Cleveland Orchestra

Administration
Cleveland, OH, USA
USD 55k-70k / year
Posted on Oct 19, 2025
Position: Manager of Special Events
Location: Cleveland, OH
Job Id: 332
# of Openings: 1

The Cleveland Orchestra is seeking a Manager of Special Events, who will be responsible for the strategic planning, execution, and evaluation of high-impact fundraising and stewardship events within a 60–70 event annual portfolio. This role leads the production of major events such as the Blossom Summer Soirée, Winter Spree, and Forte, and supports large-scale fundraisers including the annual Gala and Florida-based events. The Manager ensures all events align with donor engagement goals, are executed with excellence, and remain within budget.
Position responsibilities include the following:
Fundraising Event Planning
Independently manage three major fundraising events with projected net revenue of $225K–$260K. Develop timelines, fundraising strategies, and operational plans. Oversee vendor contracts and guest logistics.
Event Production & Logistics
Lead planning and execution of approximately 45 Tier 1 stewardship events annually. Manage all logistics including venue booking, catering, AV, décor, and staffing. Support corporate activations/ events and plan and execute Florida-based donor events.
Volunteer Leadership
Serve as liaison to Blossom Friends and Friends of The Cleveland Orchestra. Support volunteer-led initiatives and manage seasonal operations of the Blossom Friends Information Booth.
Vendor & Budget Oversight
Negotiate vendor contracts, monitor budgets, and collaborate with Finance to ensure fiscal accountability.
Departmental Coordination & Reporting
Align event strategy with Development goals. Maintain planning documents and provide regular updates to leadership.
Musician Engagement & Logistics
Hire and manage Orchestra musicians for donor events. Oversee performance logistics and ensure timely payments.
Post-Event Analysis
Conduct evaluations, prepare reports, and recommend improvements to enhance future event impact and ROI.
The successful candidate will meet the following qualifications:
  • Bachelor’s degree required
  • Minimum 4 years of experience in event planning or nonprofit operations
  • Strong skills in vendor management, budgeting, and logistics
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Asana, and CRM systems (e.g., Tessitura)
  • Excellent communication and organizational abilities
  • Ability to work evenings and weekends as needed, and travel to Florida and NYC for events
Preferred Skills
  • Knowledge of event design (floral, lighting, tablescapes, catering)
  • Familiarity with classical music and chamber repertoire
  • Experience coordinating performances with professional musicians
We offer a competitive salary of $55,000-$70,000, very generous medical and dental plan benefits, 403(b) plan with employer match, hybrid remote/onsite work schedule, complimentary concert tickets, and the opportunity to work with a world-renowned Orchestra.

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