Summary
Description
Together, we create life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses.
Beginning with one boy’s wish to be a police officer, we have evolved to be one of the world’s leading children’s charities, serving children in every community in the United States and its territories. With the help of generous donors and over 200 volunteers, Make-A-Wish Colorado grants over 300 wishes a year.
Position Overview
The Events Manager plays a key role in advancing the mission of Make-A-Wish Colorado by ensuring every eligible child’s wish can be granted. This position leads the planning and execution of a dynamic portfolio of fundraising, community and donor cultivation events that drive revenue, deepen donor engagement, and elevate the organization’s brand. This role focuses on the operational and logistical excellence across all events, with a focus on delivering meaningful and memorable experiences for participants. The ideal candidate is a highly organized, solutions-oriented professional with exceptional attention to detail. The Events Manager thrives behind the scenes while confidently leading staff, volunteers, and vendors to execute seamless, high-impact events.
Key Responsibilities
Event Planning & Execution
• Plan and execute a portfolio of fundraising, community, and donor cultivation events, ensuring seamless logistics and high-quality experiences
• Oversee vendor sourcing, negotiation, contracting, and on-site coordination to deliver cost-effective and impactful events
• Partner with the communications team to coordinate event production elements including AV, staging, lighting, and program flow
Operations & Project Management
• Develop and manage detailed project plans, timelines, and budgets for all events and auctions
• Oversee registration systems and attendee logistics to ensure a seamless guest experience
• Serve as on-site lead for events, directing staff, volunteers, and vendors to ensure flawless execution
Auction Strategy & Management
• Lead auction strategy and execution for our signature fundraising event to maximize revenue, participation and guest engagement
• Partner with committee volunteers to set goals, monitor progress, and drive results
• Oversee auction platform setup and performance; support procurement of high-value auction items, as needed
Event Reconciliation & Reporting
• Reconcile all event revenue and expenses in partnership with finance and development teams
• Track, verify and ensure accurate coding of revenue sources (ticket sales, sponsorships, auction proceeds, direct donations, etc.)
• Manage post-event follow-up, including fulfillment for auction winners and donors
• Prepare post-event reports with financial summaries, key metrics, and insights to inform future planning
• Identify opportunities to improve event operations, tools, and processes
Qualifications
• 3–5+ years of experience in event planning, operations, or logistics
• Proven experience in managing multiple complex projects simultaneously, event budgeting and financial reconciliation processes
• Experience leading onsite event execution and coordinating and building relationships with staff, volunteers, and vendors
• Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to anticipate needs and proactively address challenges
• Experience supporting fundraising events or revenue-generating initiatives
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and experience with event management platforms and CRM systems
• Self-motivated and results-oriented, with strong prioritization and time management skills
• Flexible, adaptable, and willing to take on additional responsibilities in support of organizational goals.
• Willingness to work evenings and weekends as needed for events
• Ability to lift and transport event materials and stand for extended periods
• Strong commitment to and passion for the mission of Make A Wish Colorado
Working Conditions
This is a full-time, exempt position based in Greenwood Village, Colorado.
This role is primarily in-person but may include hybrid work arrangements, subject to organizational needs. Occasional evening and weekend work required.
Compensation
Salary Range: $55,000-60,000 annually, plus incentive potential.
This position is eligible for annual performance-based bonuses and is part of our total rewards package, which includes comprehensive benefits and professional development opportunities.
Equal Opportunity & Accommodations
Make-A-Wish Colorado is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities to ensure equal access to employment opportunities.
Employment Conditions
Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of background checks and verification of employment eligibility, in compliance with the Colorado Chance to Compete Act and Equal Pay for Equal Work Act. This position will be internally posted per Colorado transparency requirements for promotional opportunities.
Join Our Team of Inspired People Transforming Lives
At Make-A-Wish Colorado, we’re more than just colleagues—we’re a community united by purpose. Every day, we work together to bring hope and joy to children facing critical illnesses, and that mission inspires everything we do. Our team is made up of passionate, diverse individuals whose unique backgrounds and perspectives strengthen our impact. Guided by shared values and a deep commitment to our mission, we support one another and celebrate the life-changing work we’re privileged to be part of.
Benefits
- Comprehensive Health Coverage: 100% employer-paid medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees.
- Financial Security: 100% employer-paid long-term disability and life insurance to support your peace of mind.
- Performance Incentives: Annual bonus potential based on individual and organizational performance.
- Retirement Planning: 401(k) plan with up to 5% employer match after one year of service.
- Generous Time Off: 10 PTO days, 15 paid holidays, and every other Friday off to support work-life balance.
- Sabbatical Program: Earn a paid sabbatical after every 5 years of service to recharge and reflect.
- Professional Growth: Access to ongoing learning and development opportunities to support your career advancement.
How to Apply
For consideration, please send your cover letter and resume to Lauren Beede at lbeede@colorado.wish.org. Priority will be given to applications received before Friday, July 10.
