WPLN Development & Events Manager

Women’s Public Leadership Network (WPLN) is a nonpartisan, 501(c)3 nonprofit that educates, organizes, and inspires center-right leaning women to seek public office at every level in every state. We are building a network of like-minded individuals and organizations across the country who support women becoming public leaders. We educate and organize through free, online programming and through our State Partners.  State Partners are our state-based organizations that identify, engage, and train women to run for elected office, obtain political appointments, and become more involved in the political process in their respective states.

We are nonpartisan but have an ideological leaning because center-right women are especially underrepresented and face different challenges to their counterparts on the left. Women who believe in commonsense, pragmatic public policy solutions are often missing in political and policy dialogue and we believe all viewpoints should be represented. Our trainings, grant-making, and marketing resources will be a helpful resource to level the playing field for ALL women to make their voice heard.

Women’s Public Leadership Network (WPLN) is looking for a Development & Events Manager to lead on planning and execution of our in-person events, along with assisting with donor relations. This role will report directly to executive management and will work closely with other members of the WPLN team, external partners and stakeholders. This is a great opportunity for someone who is exceptional at organization, logistics and working under pressure while handling challenging situations with grace.

This is a full-time position, based in the Washington, DC area.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

This hybrid role combines event management expertise with development and fundraising support. The Development & Events Manager will plan and execute impactful events while overseeing the donor engagement process and supporting fundraising operations. This position involves close collaboration with the President and program team to cultivate and maintain donor relationships, ensure event value for key stakeholders, and contribute to the organization’s fundraising goals.

• Event Planning and Coordination:
  • Develop and manage event concepts, themes, and formats that align with WPLN goals and brand, along with the programs team.
  • Coordinate with internal team and external vendors to ensure seamless event execution.
  • Conduct site visits and select appropriate venues for events.
  • Help manage event budgets, including tracking expenses and ensuring cost-effectiveness.
  • Create detailed event timelines and manage logistics such as transportation, accommodations, and catering.
• Vendor and Stakeholder Management:
  • Source, vet and assist in negotiating contracts with vendors, suppliers, and service providers.
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with venues, exhibitors, sponsors and other event partners.
  • Liaise with marketing and communications teams to promote events and manage media relations.
• On-Site Event Management:
  • Oversee event setup, execution, and breakdown, ensuring all aspects run smoothly.
  • Coordinate staff, volunteers, and vendors during events to ensure high standards of service.
  • Handle any issues or challenges that arise during events, ensuring they are resolved promptly.

• Development and Fundraising Support
  • Manage the administrative side of fundraising operations, including donor records and engagement tracking.
  • Schedule, organize, and follow up on donor meetings in collaboration with the President.
  • Draft correspondence and materials for donor communications, including thank-you letters, reports, and invitations.
  • Support the President in actively maintaining relationships with donors and external partners.
  • Work closely with the program team to ensure events consistently deliver value to VIPs, donors, and partners.
• Post-Event and Fundraising Reporting

• Assist in preparing post-event reports, including recommendations for future event improvements.
• Track and report on fundraising progress, providing insights to support strategy adjustments.

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS

• Bachelor's degree
• Minimum of 3-5 years of combined experience in event planning, management and fundraising
• Strong project management skills with the ability to multitask and manage multiple events simultaneously
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships with diverse stakeholders
• Proficiency in event management software, google suite, donor management systems, and budget management tools
• Ability to work under pressure and handle challenging situations with grace.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and travel as required

Preferred Qualifications:

• Certification in Event Management (e.g., Certified Meeting Professional (CMP))
• Experience in virtual or hybrid event management
• Familiarity with fundraising and donor management software
• Knowledge of the latest trends and technologies in event planning
• Ideologically aligned with the organization’s values
• Experience with political events

BENEFITS

• Competitive salary
• Health insurance stipend
• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement

WPLN believes that each employee makes a significant contribution to our success; this position description is designed to outline primary duties, qualifications, and job scope, but does not limit the organization to adjust the work identified; it is our expectation that each team member will offer their services wherever and whenever necessary to ensure the success of our endeavors.

This is a full-time position, based in the Washington, DC area. The deadline to apply is February 28. 2025.

To apply, please click here to submit your cover letter and resume.

Women's Public Leadership Network provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

Women’s Public Leadership Network is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization registered in the United States.