Assistant Director of Events

Description:

Position Summary:

The Assistant Director of Events reports to and works closely with the Senior Director of Event Strategy to plan and execute a wide range of Jewish Federation events, from intimate meetings to large-scale community gatherings. Serving as the primary point of contact for assigned events, this role oversees the full event lifecycle, including concept development, logistical planning, venue selection, vendor management, and on-site execution, while making informed decisions that align with organizational and client objectives.

In addition to event management, the Assistant Director provides leadership and supervisory oversight of two (2) Events Specialists, and is responsible for coordinating and overseeing the work of other event staff, contractors, and interns by delegating work, setting priorities and timelines, offering training and guidance, monitoring performance, and ensuring accountability. The role fosters a collaborative, customer-focused team culture and supports staff development through mentorship and operational leadership.

The Assistant Director also cultivates strong relationships with clients, vendors, and community partners, conducts venue evaluations, and delivers exceptional customer service throughout the planning and event experience. Through meticulous planning, effective leadership, and attention to detail, this position ensures the successful execution of events that leave a lasting impact on attendees and stakeholders.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Partner with Senior Director of Event Strategy to develop, plan and execute 200 events and meetings per year for a variety of audiences widely ranging in scope, size and complexity
• Manage collateral deliverables to support events including invitations, web pages, signage, flyers, and other promotional and print materials
• Supervise internal team communication for the Jewish Federation calendar to internal team members on a monthly basis
• Lead event logistics from concept through execution including selecting and booking vendors, speaker bookings, timelines and budgets, based on strategy created in partnership with the Director of Event Strategy
• Directly supervises event support staff, interns, volunteers, and event contractors as assigned.
• Assigns and monitors work plans, priorities, and project timelines.
• Ensures adherence to organizational policies, procedures, and event standards.
• Leads event teams during planning and on-site execution, serving as the primary decision-maker for assigned events.
• Fosters a collaborative, inclusive, and customer service-oriented work environment.
• Lead venue walk-throughs on events that fall within the assigned portfolio
• Builds and maintains vendor relationship
• Serve as an on-site decision maker at events within the assigned portfolio. Troubleshoot necessary challenges that might arise at the event using their discretion
• Supervise all vendor relations annual paperwork needed to fulfill risk management requirements
• Cultivate and maintain relationships with Federation professionals, lay leaders, and vendors.
• Responsible for the distribution of branded materials for events (banners, easels, tablecloths, give a ways etc.)
• Lead planning meetings for affinity groups within portfolio
• Represent the Senior Director of Event Strategy in meetings, when necessary and appropriate

• Strong communication (oral as well as written) and interpersonal skills to work effectively with all levels of Federation staff, community leaders, volunteers and external vendors
• Sound problem-solving and decision-making skills
• Proven organizational and planning skills
• Experience managing and operating within defined budgets as it pertains to spending.
• Knowledge of market techniques and trends
• Knowledge of catering and facility management
• Familiarity with Jewish culture, traditions and laws of kashrut preferred
• Ability to work early mornings, evenings and some weekends
• Minimum of 4-6 years of professional event planning experience
• At least 3 years of supervisory experience, managing a high performing team
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple tasks effectively
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Reliable means of transportation to commute to and from event venues

Overview

Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia offers a competitive compensation and benefits package, including a hybrid work schedule, medical, dental, vision, prescription drug program, life insurance, generous paid time off and 403b retirement savings program.

Our Mission

The Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia mobilizes financial and volunteer resources to address the communities most critical priorities locally, in Israel and around the world.

Commitment to Diversity

We deeply value the diversity of insight, perspective, and experience brought by people from backgrounds typically underrepresented in Jewish institutions. This includes Black, Latinx, and Asian people, Black Jews, Jews of Color, lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, and gender non-conforming people, and people with disabilities. We also welcome applications from people of diverse religious, spiritual, and cultural backgrounds.

About the Organization:

Since 1901, the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia has served as the hub of the regions Jewish communities, providing an infrastructure of support for Jewish people and organizations in need. Through grants, emergency funding, restricted gifts, endowments, and our partnership with the Foundation for Jewish Day Schools, we care for those in need, combat antisemitism and global crisis, and strengthen Jewish identity.

Benefits

Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia offers a competitive compensation and benefits package, including a hybrid work schedule, medical, dental, vision, prescription drug program, life insurance, generous paid time off and 403b retirement savings program.

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