Gala Director

THIS IS A HYBRID POSITION REQUIRING 2 DAYS PER WEEK (TUESDAY AND WEDNESDAY) EACH WEEK IN-PERSON AT OUR OFFICE LOCATED IN THE STREETERVILLE/MAG MILE AREA OF DOWNTOWN CHICAGO, IL.

GALA DIRECTOR
SUMMARY
The Gala Director leads all aspects of fundraising and execution for the American Osteopathic Foundation’s annual Honors Gala, generating more than $1 million annually. This senior-level role partners closely with the Chief Development Officer and CEO to secure sponsorships, engage donors, and deliver a high-impact event experience that advances the Foundation’s mission. The Honors Gala is hosted in a different metropolitan city each year; therefore, out-of-state travel is required for planning and execution of the event.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

Secure corporate and individual sponsorships to build event revenue

Curate high-value auction packages and VIP experiences

Design and execute Fund-a-Need / Raise the Paddle campaign, including securing matching gifts and pre-event commitments

Engage and steward donors to ensure long-term relationship development

Event Logistics & Production

Oversee all event logistics including venue, vendors, production, and entertainment

Direct event programming and run-of-show

Manage guest experience including registration, seating, and onsite flow

Strategic & Financial Management

Develop and manage gala budget and financial tracking

Utilize CRM and event platforms to track revenue and performance

Support and orient Board-appointed Gala Chair and committee members

Engage volunteers and coordinate event committees

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Lead all aspects of gala fundraising and execution

Develop and implement annual gala strategy and budget

Partner with leadership to meet fundraising goals

Manage vendor contracts and event production

Oversee auction procurement and donor engagement strategies

Collaborate with marketing on event promotion and communications

Coordinate volunteers and committee participation

Conduct post-event analysis and reporting

QUALIFICATIONS

5+ years of progressively responsible experience in fundraising or outside sales

Proven success securing sponsorships and major gifts

Experience managing high-level events and donor engagement

Strong organizational and communication skills

Proficiency with CRM systems (Raiser’s Edge preferred) and event platforms

Additional Requirements:

Ability to work evenings and weekends as needed

Ability and willingness to travel out of state to support annual gala planning and execution

Valid driver’s license and ability to meet insurance requirements

Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment

We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

American Osteopathic Foundation is unable to sponsor work visas at this time.

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