Description
As the leading global type 1 diabetes (T1D) research and advocacy organization, Breakthrough T1D helps make everyday life with T1D better while driving toward cures. We invest in the most promising research to turn ideas into life-changing therapies and devices. We work with government, regulatory officials, and insurance companies to address issues that impact the T1D community -- breaking through barriers that limit access to care worldwide. We provide resources and guidance that makes it easier to live and thrive with T1D. This is more than a moment -- we're empowering a movement for the T1D community. Share your support and help educate and empower individuals facing type 1 diabetes.
Our mission is to improve lives today and tomorrow by accelerating life changing breakthroughs to treat, prevent and ultimately, cure T1D and its complications. Always, we are guided by a single purpose: As we drive towards curing type 1 diabetes, we help make everyday life better for the people who face it.
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 — a multi-day stewardship event attended by major and principal gift donors, volunteer leaders, and key executive and fundraising staff.
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 to ensure events are integrated with broader strategies.
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; ensure all components meet the quality standard expected of a principal gift donor audience.
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 — ensuring the CEO, organizational leadership and key volunteers receive exceptional service.
Event communications — 30%
Lead the development and execution of event communication materials for staff, event speakers, and executives, including run-of-show, executive briefings and event-related donor and speaker correspondence, with exceptional attention to detail and quality execution.
Design and manage donor-facing event webpages and registration experiences in Cvent to create polished, user-friendly, and engaging interactions.
Collaborate with Strategic Philanthropic Communications on event collateral design including invitations, programs, talking points, event-related donor correspondence, printed programs, presentations, and branded event materials — ensuring all materials meet the quality standard expected for a principal gift donor audience.
Lead event communication planning and execution — ensuring alignment across stakeholders, timelines, messaging, and deliverables.
Manage RSVP process and maintain accurate mailing lists and event data; oversee coordination of post-event follow-up plans.
Budget, reporting & operations — 25%
Develop and manage event budgets; track expenses and report on actual vs. budget throughout the event cycle.
Produce post-event reports and outcome summaries; analyze event data to identify opportunities for continuous improvement.
Maintain event data and pre/post-event reporting processes; support continuous improvement of event systems and workflows.
Maintain strict confidentiality and data security standards for all donor information.
Perform all other responsibilities and projects as assigned.
Requirements
5+ years of experience in high-touch event planning and management, with demonstrated expertise in designing and executing events for major donor or equivalent high-net-worth audiences.
Proficiency in Cvent or equivalent event management platform.
Strong project management skills with exceptional attention to detail; ability to manage multiple complex events simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
Excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills; ability to interact with senior executives, board-level volunteers, and principal gift donors with poise and professionalism.
Strong written communication skills; ability to write and evaluate event copy that is sophisticated, warm, and donor-appropriate.
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 with scientifically complex content 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.
