National Manager, Strategic Donor Engagement Events

Role Description

Reporting to the AVP, Donor Engagement, the National Manager, Strategic Donor Engagement Events leads the design, planning, and flawless execution of high-quality major and principal gift donor events in support of Breakthrough T1D's strategic plan and comprehensive campaign. The National Manager develops compelling, memorable experiences for Breakthrough T1D's highest-level donors and volunteer leaders — creating meaningful connections to the mission that deepen relationships and inspire continued philanthropic investment.

This role collaborates directly with staff within the offices of the Chief Executive Officer, Chief Global Development and Operations Officer, leadership of Scientific Research, Medical Affairs and Advocacy teams, and key staff and volunteers including International Board of Directors and Campaign Cabinet members. The position is part of the Strategic Philanthropic Initiatives team and operates with a high degree of organizational visibility.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic event design & execution — 45%
  • Lead end-to-end planning and execution of national and international donor events, including Breakthrough T1D's annual Mission Summit.
  • Develop compelling event concepts that translate the complexity and excitement of T1D research into emotionally resonant, inspiring experiences for major gift donor audiences.
  • Partner with Corporate and Institutional Giving, Leadership Giving, Strategic Philanthropic Communications, and Marketing and Communications teams.
  • Work collaboratively with the Meetings and Conference team on venue and city selection, hotel negotiations, and vendor relationship management.
  • Manage all event timelines, logistics, vendor contracts, production details, and onsite execution.
  • Manage approval processes for all event components; ensure timely review and stakeholder alignment.
  • Support individual hosted events in collaboration with Corporate and Institutional Giving, Leadership Giving, and volunteer leadership.
• Event communications — 30%
  • Lead the development and execution of event communication materials for staff, event speakers, and executives.
  • Design and manage donor-facing event webpages and registration experiences in Cvent.
  • Collaborate with Strategic Philanthropic Communications on event collateral design.
  • Lead event communication planning and execution.
  • Manage RSVP process and maintain accurate mailing lists and event data.
• Budget, reporting & operations — 25%
  • Develop and manage event budgets; track expenses and report on actual vs. budget.
  • Produce post-event reports and outcome summaries; analyze event data.
  • Maintain event data and pre/post-event reporting processes.
  • Maintain strict confidentiality and data security standards for all donor information.
  • Perform all other responsibilities and projects as assigned.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in high-touch event planning and management.
• Proficiency in Cvent or equivalent event management platform.
• Strong project management skills with exceptional attention to detail.
• Excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
• Strong written communication skills.
• Proficiency in Salesforce or equivalent CRM for data management and RSVP tracking.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite including PowerPoint and Excel.
• Ability to travel 20–30% of the time, including occasional international travel.
• Ability to work evenings and weekends as needed.
• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality and data security.
• College degree in a related area or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience managing events in a healthcare, research, or advocacy organization preferred.
• Experience supporting a CEO or C-suite executive in high-visibility external settings preferred.
• Familiarity with campaign fundraising environments and major gift donor dynamics preferred.
• Passion for the mission of Breakthrough T1D and familiarity with the type 1 diabetes community preferred.

Benefits

• Competitive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• 403(b) retirement plan.
• Voluntary benefits.
• Flexible spending and commuter benefit accounts.
• Employee assistance program (EAP).
• Life and disability insurance.
• Performance-based bonuses.
• Generous paid time off.