Event Planner

Event Planner

The First Baptist Church of Glenarden is seeking a full-time event planner to serve as the planner for all special or major FBCG ministry or church-wide events. The event planner will be responsible for end-to-end process management of the assigned event. Assesses program needs, equipment, logistical and catering requirements, event technology systems, volunteer engagement along with monitoring event budgets. A high degree of creativity and latitude is required. This position reports to the Events Director.

This role requires strong creativity, advanced organizational skills, spiritual maturity, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced and frequently changing environment. The Event Planner will work collaboratively with ministry leads, operations teams, and church staff to ensure successful event outcomes.

Responsibilities

Event Planning & Execution

• Oversee and manage assigned events.
• Lead end-to-end logistics: space planning, technology needs, lodging, transportation, catering, security, licenses, permitting, and insurance.
• Develop event briefings, timelines, and detailed execution plans.
• Monitor and manage event budgets, vendor contracts, and financial resources.
• Schedule and coordinate pre-planning, pre-con and post-con meetings and provide status reports
• Serve as on-site event lead to ensure smooth operations and address logistical issues.
• Act as backup planner for pop-up events or in absence of team members.

Team & Ministry Collaboration

• Partner with ministry event leads, programming teams, operations, and other stakeholders.
• Align event strategies with church mission, values, and engagement goals.
• Hold regular planning meetings and offer logistical and administrative guidance.
• Maintain accessibility to teams to resolve planning questions and challenges.

Volunteer Coordination

• In conjunction with Volunteer University, recruit, train, orient, and manage event volunteers.
• Develop systems for volunteer communication, tracking, and support.
• Partner with ministry leads to ensure volunteer readiness and engagement.

Administrative

• Enter all information into event scheduling system.
• Prepare event and post-event briefings, reports, and evaluations.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Event Technology Management

• Manage registration systems from setup through communication and data reporting.
• Utilize event technology platforms and virtual tools.
• Benchmark and evaluate new technologies to improve operations and attendee experience.

Qualifications

Spiritual Requirements

• Must be saved, possess a servant's heart, and be a member (or willing to become a member) in good standing at FBCG.
• Must be able to submit to pastoral authority.
• Must display a Christ-like demeanor, especially under pressure.
• Understanding and appreciation for the ministry, mission, and doctrines of FBCG.

Professional Requirements

• Bachelor's degree required (hospitality or related field preferred).
• Minimum 3–5 years of meeting/event planning experience; CMP, CEP, CSEP, or CMM preferred.
• Strong skills in event logistics, budgeting, vendor management, and creative problem-solving.
• Exceptional organizational, time management, and multitasking abilities.
• High proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Outlook, internet applications, and event technology platforms.
• Ability to write and edit professional materials.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills; ability to work with church leaders, members, volunteers, and staff.
• Ability to remain flexible and manage "spur-of-the-moment" changes.
• Experience in volunteer management strongly preferred.
• Knowledge of nonprofit or association organizational models is a plus.

Personal Competencies

• Ability to think ahead, anticipate needs, and prepare materials proactively.
• Demonstrates initiative, accuracy, and a commitment to quality.
• Ability to build relationships based on trust and respect.
• Exhibits sound judgment, emotional maturity, and professionalism under pressure.
• Adaptable, dependable, and committed to continuous professional and spiritual growth.

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to sit, stand, walk, reach, kneel, stoop, and lift items during event setup.
• Requires the ability to talk, hear, type, and use close vision.
• Must be able to work in church, office, and conference environments with varying noise levels.

Other Information

This job description outlines the primary responsibilities and expectations of the Event Planner role at FBCG but is not an exhaustive list. Duties may evolve based on ministry needs, church growth, and organizational direction.

What's in it for you (Benefits & Perks):

• Affordable medical, dental & vision coverage - large portion paid by employer!
• Short Term and Long-Term Disability – Paid by employer!
• Employer paid group life & AD&D insurance
• Vacation, Sick or PTO and holidays
• 403b with employer contribution
• 3-days of yearly employer-paid staff retreat
• Paid Birthday Day Off to celebrate you
• 2 weeks - Paid parental leave including adoption
• Flexible spending accounts (FSA)
• Education reimbursement
• Employee rewards program