Event Manager

Who We Are:

The Orthodox Union (OU) is the largest Orthodox Jewish organization in the United States. Founded in 1898, the OU supports a network of synagogues, youth programs, Jewish and Religious Zionist advocacy programs, programs for the disabled, localized religious study programs, and international units. The OU maintains a kosher certification service, whose circled U symbol is found on the labels of many koshers commercial and consumer food products.
 

Position Summary:
The Department of Institutional Advancement is seeking a motivated, detail-oriented Event Manager to support the execution of high-impact events that engage and steward major donors. Reporting to the Director of Events, this is a hands-on role that requires creative thinking, exceptional organizational skills, and a deep commitment to the donor experience.
 

This position requires work outside the office, travel, and some evening hours.

Essential Function:

Donor Engagement and Cultivation

• Assist in planning and executing strategic events aimed at cultivating, stewarding, and recognizing donors at the major gift level ($25,000+).
• Work with OU departments to coordinate site visits that showcase the organization's impact and mission to major gift donors and prospects.

• Liaise with OU departments on their donor programs, including galas, retreats, missions, and corporate sponsorship programs.
• Help shape meaningful, personalized event experiences that build donor relationships and deepen commitment to the organization’s mission.
• Support the development team in identifying and implementing event-related cultivation and stewardship touchpoints.
• Track invitations, RSVPs, and guest experience; support follow-up and donor stewardship post-event.

Event Planning and Execution

• Oversee the logistics for major donor cultivation events, including receptions, parlor meetings, OU experiences, retreats and workshops.
• Manage event timelines and vendor relationships to ensure seamless execution.
• Manage event marketing strategies, including graphics and internal and external communications.
• Analyze event outcomes and donor engagement metrics to measure impact and improve future initiatives. 

Project Management & Administration

• Maintain detailed project plans, budgets, and post-event reports.
• Track and reconcile event expenses; ensure alignment with organizational and fundraising goals.
• Contribute to the development of event collateral, signage, and promotional content in coordination with the communications team.

Job Qualifications:

• 2–3 years of professional experience in event planning, fundraising, or nonprofit development (or a related field).
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects with competing deadlines.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to delivering high-quality experiences.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, collaborative, and mission-driven environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite; familiarity with CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce or Raiser’s Edge) is a plus.
• Flexibility to travel and work occasional evenings or weekends for events.

Personal Attributes:

• Detail-Oriented: Demonstrates exceptional attention to detail, ensuring accuracy and precision in all aspects of planning and execution.
• Team Player: Works collaboratively with colleagues across departments and builds positive relationships with internal and external partners.
• Flexible and Adaptable: Handles changing priorities and last-minute adjustments with professionalism and grace.
• Calm Under Pressure: Performs effectively in high-pressure environments, especially during live events or tight deadlines.