Engagement and Special Events Manager

Overview

Job Summary:

Working in either Hobart, IN or Donaldson, IN, the Engagement & Special Events Manager designs and manages comprehensive engagement strategies that connect donors, partners, and communities to the mission of the Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ (PHJC). This position leads the planning and execution of hybrid events, annual appeals, and campaigns that strengthen donor relationships and visibility across all ministries. The role reports to the Director of the Office of Communications and Philanthropy Initiatives and ensures that every event and campaign aligns with PHJC’s values, global mission, and strategic fundraising priorities.

The Manager blends creativity and strategy—developing experiences that celebrate generosity, share impact, and foster belonging within the PHJC community.

• Event Leadership:
  Plan and manage major donor, community, and virtual events that promote donor engagement and mission awareness.
• Strategic Campaigns:
  Oversee annual fund and special appeals, integrating digital and live engagement strategies to maximize reach and participation.
• Global Readiness:
  Design event strategies with multicultural and international audiences in mind, ensuring inclusive representation of PHJC’s ministries.
• Collaborative Storytelling:
  Partner with communications, marketing, and philanthropy staff to create cohesive messaging across all campaigns and events.
• Supervision:
  Lead and mentor the Marketing and Social Media Coordinator, ensuring alignment between event promotion and digital engagement.
• Donor
  
  Experience:
  
  Develop meaningful touchpoints before, during, and after events that build donor loyalty and trust.
• Budget Management:
  Prepare and monitor budgets for events and campaigns, ensuring responsible stewardship of resources.
• Analytics & Reporting:
  Track participation, donor engagement, and giving outcomes to evaluate success and inform future strategies.
• Vendor & Partner Relations:
  Manage contracts and collaborations with venues, production companies, and service providers.
• Volunteer Engagement:
  Coordinate and train volunteers to assist in donor-facing events.
• Cross-Ministry
  
  Collaboration:
  
  Support other PHJC ministries by providing guidance on event design, donor cultivation, and storytelling.
• Continuous Improvement:
  Research best practices in hybrid events and philanthropic engagement for future integration.

• Bachelor’s degree in event management, communications, nonprofit management, or related field required.
• Certification in fundraising or event management preferred.

• 5+ years of experience in event planning, fundraising, or donor engagement within nonprofit settings.
• Demonstrated success in managing hybrid or digital events.
• Experience supervising staff or coordinating cross-functional teams.
• Strong storytelling, project management, and logistical planning skills.
• Proficiency with CRM and event management software (Bloomerang, Qgiv, Eventbrite, etc.).
• Strong interpersonal skills with ability to communicate effectively with diverse groups.
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.

On-the-Job Training/Orientation Required.