Diocesan Event Planner

DEPARTMENT/PROGRAM:
Hospitality and Events

REPORTS TO:

Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia, under the supervision of the Department Manager of Hospitality and Events

SCHEDULE:

Full-time; occasional evenings and weekends required

PAY RANGE: $80,000 - $95,000 annually;
Based on experience, education and qualifications.

Summary:

The Diocesan Event Planner is responsible for planning, organizing, and executing events and projects that align with the organization's mission and strategic goals, with primary responsibility for leading all aspects of the Diocese of Orange's 50th Anniversary celebration. This role ensures seamless coordination across departments, fostering collaboration and engagement among internal teams, external partners, and stakeholders. The position encompasses all facets of event management-including budgeting, logistics, registration, marketing, implementation, and post‑event evaluation-while serving as a central point of leadership for the planning and execution of the 50th Anniversary event.

Responsibilities:
Because all Roman Catholic Bishop of Orange employees represent the Roman Catholic Church, they are expected to conduct themselves according to the goals and mission of the Church in performing their work.

The position of Diocesan Event Planner consists of some or all of the following duties:

• Event Lifecycle Management
  :
  Oversee all phases of event planning and execution, including scope definition, resource allocation, scheduling, and deployment.
• Budgeting & Financial Oversight
  :
  Create, monitor, and track event budgets, ensuring cost-effectiveness and adherence to financial guidelines.
• Project Planning
  :
  Develop detailed project plans, timelines, and milestones to ensure timely and high-quality delivery.
• Research & Best Practices
  :
  Stay informed on industry trends and incorporate best practices to enhance event quality and participant experience.
• Cross-Department Collaboration
  :
  Work closely with all organizational departments to ensure alignment and maximize engagement opportunities.
• Reporting & Communication
  :
  Provide regular updates on event status, metrics, and outcomes to leadership and stakeholders.
• Vendor & Partner Coordination
  :
  Maintain ongoing communication with internal teams and external vendors to ensure timely deliverables and smooth execution.
• Training & Support
  :
  Assist in developing training materials and guidelines for staff and volunteers involved in event coordination.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor's degree in business, communications, hospitality, or related field.
• Minimum of three years of successful experience in event planning or project management.
• Proven experience in event management, project coordination, or similar roles.
• Strong organizational and multitasking skills with attention to detail.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and basic website/social media management.
• Valid driver's license (if travel is required)

• Church or non-profit experience
• Certification in Event Planning, Project Management (e.g., PMP), or related fields
• Experience with event marketing, content creation, and digital platforms (e.g., Canva, Constant Contact, Basecamp)
• Experience using event management and floor-planning software such as Accruent's EMS or CVENT's Social Tables
• Advanced skills in Excel/PowerPoint and/or graphic design tools
• Master's degree in business, organizational management, or related discipline.

• The position primarily involves work in an office setting, requiring frequent use of office equipment such as computers, telephones, printers, credit card swipe, postage machine, and filing systems.
• Evening and weekend work is required to accommodate programs and events.
• Must be available to adjust the schedule as needed to meet the needs of the community and ministry activities.
• Regular interaction with children, youth, adults, and volunteers in a professional and faith-based environment.
• Some local travel may be required for meetings or events.

• Ability to remain seated for extended periods while performing administrative tasks.
• Frequent walking, standing, and moving around the campus to support programs and events.
• Ability to lift and carry items up to 25 pounds, such as program materials, supplies, and event setups.
• Manual dexterity required for operating office equipment, creating materials, and managing paperwork.
• Visual and auditory ability to communicate effectively with staff, volunteers, and parishioners in person, via email, and by phone.
• Must be able to set up and dismantle chairs, tables, and other equipment needed for activities as required.