August 29th, 2025
Epilepsy Foundation of Michigan
About the Organization
Established in 1948, the Epilepsy Foundation of Michigan is the only statewide nonprofit organization focusing on epilepsy. The Foundation provides information, resources, and support to help individuals understand and manage epilepsy. Our mission is to lead the fight to overcome the challenges of living with epilepsy and to accelerate therapies to stop seizures, find cures, and save lives.
Job Description
Position salary range: $58,000 - $60,000
Position reports to: Development Director
Position Objective Summary: Primary responsibilities relate to the management of fundraising through the planning and execution of successful fundraising events and other Development Department initiatives. The Special Events Manager will be responsible for leading efforts to raise approximately $700,000 annually.
Principle Duties and Responsibilities:
1.Responsible for managing the planning, coordination, and execution of the Foundation’s signature fundraising events (Walks, Gala, Golf Event, and 5K) and other Development Department activities
2.Develop action plans and timelines meant to organize the Foundation’s fundraising events
3.Communicate and coordinate with Development Team, Volunteers, Committees, and other Key Stakeholders
4.Anticipate and immediately advise the Development Director of any issues that may impact the success of any event
5.Lead post-event evaluations, identify issues/concerns, and provide recommendations for improvement
6.Manage event planning materials, electronic files, etc. and ensure they are accurate and updated during and after each event
7.Maintain up-to-date information in the Foundation database relating to sponsors, donors, volunteers, etc.
8.Handle all contributions in a secure and responsible manner and in accordance with the Foundation’s procedure
9.Responsible for participating in the team effort to accomplish the Foundation’s mission statement, goals and strategic plan by:
a.Collaborating & communicating effectively with other team members
b.Attending and participating in internal meetings as scheduled
10.Support and adhere to the Foundation’s policies and practices
Skills and Abilities Required:
•Must have experience managing walks and/or 5ks and galas
•Must be able to lead independently
•Must have a proven track record of raising a minimum of $500,000 annually
•Must have impeccable organizational skills and proven success in a role requiring managing multiple projects with multiple constituencies
•Must have demonstrated ability to work with a wide range of professionals and clients with varying abilities and from diverse backgrounds
•Must have superior collaboration skills, including proven ability to work effectively with multiple stakeholders
•Must be self-motivated and able to work independently with a positive attitude
•Must be adaptable and solution-oriented
•Must have excellent verbal and written communication skills
•Must possess the ability to remain calm under pressure and come up with solutions in a timely manner
•Must possess the ability to represent the Foundation in a professional and ethical manner
•Must be willing to work flexible work hours when necessary - may include overnight travel, weekends and/or evening events
•Must be willing and able to perform physical work outside in varying weather conditions
•Must possess the ability to stand for extended periods of time, carry, climb, stoop and load/unload various objects up to 30 lbs
Knowledge and Experience Required:
•Minimum three years of event planning and management experience in a non-profit organization
•Associate or Bachelor’s Degree preferred
•Computer skills and knowledge of:
-Microsoft Office software (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.),
-Experience using fundraising platforms (i.e. Classy, Blackbaud, ClickBid, etc.)
- Experience using InDesign and Illustrator
•Prior experience with Salesforce is a plus
Working Conditions:
Office conditions represent the primary working environment. Physical activity including reaching, bending, lifting up to 30 lbs, and prolonged periods of standing when participating in and preparing for Foundation events.
NOTE: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned this job. They are not exhaustive lists of all duties, responsibilities, knowledge, skills, abilities and working conditions associated with the job. Additional functions may be required to meet Foundation objectives.
Additional information It shall be the policy of the Epilepsy Foundation of Michigan to provide equal employment and service opportunities to all eligible persons and to administer personnel policies and practices in accordance with all applicable laws. We believe that diversity creates a healthier atmosphere, and we do not discriminate on the basis of race, ancestry, creed, religion, color, personal appearance, national origin, citizenship, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, parental status, family responsibilities, the presence of any sensory, physical or mental disability, intellectual disability, learning disability, matriculation, membership in any labor organization, lawful source of income, political affiliation, or political ideology
Contact email for applicants pbird@epilepsymichigan.org