Special Events Manager

The Opportunity:

Palm Beach Opera’s Special Events Manager will play a pivotal role in producing elegant, mission-driven events that deepen relationships and drive philanthropic engagement. This role is ideal for someone who thrives at the intersection of creativity, strategy, and relationship-building — someone who finds joy in crafting meaningful experiences that unite people around a shared love of the arts. In this position, you will lead the planning and execution of donor-centric events that support fundraising goals, strengthen our donor programs, and celebrate the transformative power of opera. You’ll work collaboratively across departments, analyze data to enhance impact, and bring energy and polish to every aspect of your work. You will be joining a mission-driven team that’s dedicated to advancing the arts in our community and shaping the future of opera while living in one of the most desirable coastal communities in the country.

Why Palm Beach Opera?

Palm Beach Opera is a dynamic and nationally recognized company with over 60 years of artistic excellence. Based in the vibrant West Palm Beach, PBO is celebrated for world-class productions, transformative education programs, and one of the industry’s top resident artist training pipelines. We’re passionate about creating extraordinary experiences—on stage, in classrooms, and throughout our community. Our culture thrives on collaboration, mentorship, and innovation, whether we're launching emerging talent or partnering with local youth organizations to create their own operas.

What you'll do:

• Plan and execute all donor-centric and fundraising events — including receptions, opening night dinners, a Lunch & Learn series, Board of Directors trips, and a 400-person annual gala at The Breakers — ensuring that each event reflects the mission and elevates the patron experience.
• Develop creative event concepts and thematic elements that align with institutional goals, donor interests, and artistic programming.
• Create and manage detailed event budgets, timelines, and run-of-show schedules to ensure seamless execution and positive financial outcomes.
• Secure and coordinate with venues, caterers, A/V teams, florists, and other vendors while negotiating favorable terms and ensuring exceptional service.
• Recruit, train, and lead event staff and volunteers, cultivating a collaborative and guest-focused event culture.
• Collaborate with internal departments — particularly marketing and artistic — to ensure event messaging, branding, and programming are consistent and compelling.
• Design and implement fundraising strategies within events to drive engagement, secure sponsorships, and inspire giving.
• Manage guest registration and RSVPs, oversee seating plans, and provide high-touch service to VIP donors and sponsors.
• In collaboration with marketing department, develop and execute event materials using email, social media, printed collateral, and press outreach.
• Conduct post-event evaluation, track attendance and giving data, and prepare internal reports that inform future planning.
• Lead aspects of donor programs, including recruitment events, renewals, increases, and benefit fulfillment.
• Analyze donor engagement data to refine strategies, identify trends, and maximize impact across events and fundraising initiatives.
• Serve as an enthusiastic ambassador for Palm Beach Opera at all events — cultivating lasting relationships and delivering outstanding guest experiences.
• Represent Palm Beach Opera’s mission and values with integrity, warmth, and professionalism in all external communications.

What you'll bring:

• 3+ years of relevant experience in event planning, fundraising, and/or donor engagement — preferably in a nonprofit or arts organization.
• Demonstrated success planning and executing special events of varying scale with impeccable taste, including experience managing event budgets, logistics, and vendor relationships.
• A track record of meeting or exceeding fundraising goals through events, donor cultivation, and creative engagement strategies.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build meaningful relationships with donors, sponsors, vendors, volunteers, and staff.
• Strong organizational and project management skills — detail-oriented and able to juggle multiple deadlines and priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• A proactive, solutions-driven mindset with the ability to troubleshoot on the fly and adapt to changing circumstances with professionalism.
• Proficiency in CRM and event software platforms (such as PatronManager, Raiser’s Edge, OneCause, or similar), as well as Microsoft Office Suite.
• Familiarity with annual fund programs, including donor benefit fulfillment, stewardship, and engagement strategies.
• A collaborative spirit with the ability to work independently and cross-functionally in a team-oriented environment.
• A passion for the performing arts and a strong commitment to the mission of Palm Beach Opera.
• Discretion and sound judgment when working with confidential and sensitive information.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and extended hours for donor events, performances, and meetings.
• Access to reliable transportation for travel to work, meetings, performances, and off-site events.

This job description is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, skills, requirements, or working conditions associated with the job. While this listing is intended to be an accurate reflection of the current position, the company reserves the right to revise the position or to require that other or different responsibilities and tasks be performed or assigned.