Event Specialist

Position Description

The Event Specialist is a full-time position devoted to KCC signature events and community fundraising as part of the Revenue Development team. Specifically assigned tasks are related to event management or support, community fundraising initiatives, relationship building and donor stewardship.

The Event Specialist will be both task and project driven, requiring the ability to manage multiple responsibilities, take initiative, problem solve, provide assistance and follow through in all areas of event coordination and implementation, especially in relation to the specific tasks outlined below.

Key Areas of Responsibilities

The Event Specialist will set goals for successful execution and growth of signature events and community fundraising. They will also continue to maintain strong relationships with existing donors through excellent stewardship and growth of new donors through creative marketing and networking.

Signature Events

KCC’s signature events include: Parents’ Quest for the Cure gala, Dad & Daughter Gala, KCC Cycle Challenge and High Hopes Challenge

• Lead for Parents’ Quest, Dad & Daughter and Cycle Challenge. Responsible for the planning, organization, and management of each of these events from concept to completion, ensuring they operate smoothly and efficiently. This includes securing the venue(s), establishing the concept and theme, developing and executing marketing plans for the event, working with numerous external vendors, design and support relevant event pages on AKA New Media’s raisin and Simplyk on-line fundraising portals and event execution, ensure recognition of donors and sponsors at events;
• Support Events and Community Relation Manager to lead Kindle Pursuit;
• Work in concert with the Director of Philanthropy to create appealing sponsorship packages, secure sponsors for each of the signature events or campaigns and ensure sponsor stewardship and recognition is incorporated into the event;
• Work closely with staff and volunteers to establish vision and methods to achieve and exceed the goals of each event.

Community Fundraising

General community partners

• Participate in the establishment of both long term and short term (annual) planning for the Events and Community Relations area;
• Actively engage community fundraising event partners throughout the year to support their event planning;
• Collaborate with Events and Community Relations Manager on design and support relevant event pages on AKA New Media’s raisin and Simplyk on-line fundraising portals;
• Assist with community fundraising initiatives by representing KCC at events and, if required, supporting raffles and auctions and event logistics;
• Create and adhere to appropriate timelines and ensure that necessary resources are in place;
• Ensure recognition of donors and sponsors at events.

 Stewardship and Information Management

• Update and maintain KCC stewardship grid and encourage awareness of required activities across the Development team;
• Ensure appropriate stewardship takes place with community partners and donors;
• Ensure recognition of donors and sponsors at events;
• Ensure fulfillment of all event sponsorship terms and conditions;
• Assist in the development of impact reports for donors and sponsors including the Gratitude Report and its requisite distribution lists;
• Promote Kids Cancer Care as a worthy beneficiary through various marketing initiatives;
• Research potential partners and events;
• Meet people in the community and introduce them to Kids Cancer Care;
• Look for opportunities to grow the community fundraising program;
• Ensure donors receive the right number of touchpoints during the year which may include awareness of mass communication activities;
• Maintain accurate system of records from events;
• Provide regular progress reports to supervisor;
• Ensure funds are deposited in a timely manner and accurately recorded; and
• Design and support relevant event pages on AKA New Media’s raisin on-line fundraising portal.

 Alberta Gaming Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC)

• Serve as the primary contact for all AGLC requirements; including obtaining raffle licences, post raffle reconciliation, being present at all events requiring a raffle licence and all recipient gift forms.

General Duties as a member of the Revenue Development team:

• Support team members to complete projects, working as a team first and foremost;
• Update donor information in Raiser’s Edge NXT in accordance with established standards for Raiser’s Edge NXT usage.
• Work closely with staff and volunteers to establish vision and methods to achieve and exceed the goals of each program;
• Create and adhere to appropriate timelines and ensure that necessary resources are in place;
• Participate in the establishment of both long term and short term (annual) planning for the Revenue Development area;
• Represent Kids Cancer Care in the community by 1) being knowledgeable about the cause and 2) developing and maintaining supportive relationships;
• Bring creativity and enthusiasm to the workplace; and,
• Ensure that Kids Cancer Care fundraising activities and events are of the highest standard by adhering to all charitable and ethical guidelines

 Education, Certifications and Proficiencies

• At least five years of relevant experience in event planning, having successfully executed a variety of live events from concept to successful completion;
• Relevant post-secondary degree or diploma;
• Strong interpersonal skills;
• Exceptional project management skills;
• Experience working with vendors and negotiating contracts
• Mature, flexible, well-organized individual who works well with staff and volunteers;
• Ambitious and enjoys building relationships in the community;
• Strong oral and written communication skills including an excellent telephone manner
• Excellent time management and planning abilities
• Ability to thrive in a team environment and be self-motivated
• Strong computer skills and proficient with all Microsoft office applications;
• Demonstrated database proficiency required, experience with Raiser’s Edge and raisin or Simplyk on-line fundraising systems considered an asset;
• Valid Alberta Driver’s Licence and access to reliable transportation;
• Police and vulnerable sectors check required (new or done within the last three months);
• Ability to lift 20-30 lbs;
• Occasional evening and weekend work required.

Industry Knowledge

• Knowledgeable and stays current with Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) and Service Alberta regulations and guidelines regarding fundraising in Canada and specifically, Alberta;
• Knowledgeable and stays current with Alberta Gaming & Liquor Commission (AGLC) legislation, regulation and policy related to charitable groups;
• Ensure that all KCC fund development activities, for both staff and volunteer participants, are fully compliant with both the AFP Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice and the Imagine Canada’s Code of Ethical Conduct; and
• Stay well-informed of news, activities and trends in the events industry and non-profit sector.

Apply with your cover letter and resume to [email protected]