Special Events and Stewardship Manager

Setting the Standard for Exceptional Care

For over ninety years, Silver Hill Hospital has been at the forefront of psychiatry and leading the way in providing the best treatment for psychiatric illnesses and addiction. Our track record of success is based on a carefully executed team effort, one that uses an array of powerful tools, talent and knowledge to help people turn their lives around. We have opportunities available for individuals who have a passion to make a difference in the lives of our patients. 

The Special Events and Stewardship Manager plays a crucial role in the Advancement Department at Silver Hill Hospital. This individual will leverage strong project management skills, effective communication, and partnership capabilities to develop and execute SHH’s special events and donor stewardship programs. The Special Events and Stewardship Manager will ensure that all events and stewardship efforts align with SHH’s broader goals of engaging donors, cultivating relationships, and fostering long-term philanthropic support.

The Special Events and Stewardship Manager will lead the design and execution of various donor and campaign events, as well as manage a comprehensive stewardship program that acknowledges and engages donors at all levels. The position requires both independent initiative and collaborative efforts to support a high-performing major gifts program and donor retention strategy. 

Duties/Responsibilities:

Special Event Responsibilities (50%)

• Oversee all aspects of event planning, from inception to execution, for both small and large-scale Advancement events, including high-level donor cultivation events, an annual recognition event, and special campaign events.
• Work closely with Advancement staff, board leadership, external consultants, and Silver Hill Hospital colleagues to develop and deliver events that align with donor/prospect cultivation and stewardship goals.
• Develop innovative and inspirational events and ensure the creation of engaging communications to promote these events, ensuring they align with SHH’s Advancement objectives.
• Create and manage detailed event work plans, ensuring that roles, timelines, responsibilities, and event flow are clearly defined. Oversee invitation lists, briefings, seating arrangements, staff roles, and serve as the on-site manager for events.
• Identify and cultivate relationships with venues, vendors, and service providers, applying negotiation skills to manage costs and contract terms effectively.

Stewardship Responsibilities (50%)

• Partner with Advancement leadership to implement a comprehensive donor stewardship plan aimed at increasing donor retention and levels of giving. Monitor and manage the return on investment of stewardship activities. 
• Provide tailored stewardship support to gift officers for high-level donors, ensuring a personalized experience that demonstrates the impact of their contributions.
• Oversee the timely, impactful, and personal acknowledgment process, ensuring that all donor communications, including thank you letters and calls, are of the highest quality.
• Collaborate with the Finance team to ensure that special endowed and operating funds are administered according to donor intent and oversee the development and distribution of annual “impact reports” ensuring donor satisfaction and transparency. 

Required Skills/Abilities: 

• Outstanding project management skills with excellent attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously; proven ability to work well under pressure to meet established deadlines

• High degree of proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, experience with Raiser’s Edge or similar constituent databases a plus

• Strong oral and written communication skills 

•  Ability to work onsite full-time in New Canaan, CT, and travel as needed 

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in relevant field, minimum 3 years in advancement or fundraising field
• Proven track record of successful experience in event planning 
• Demonstrated experience managing donor stewardship programs, and providing customized stewardship plans for high-level donors

Physical Requirements: 

• Ability to move light objects weighing less than 20 pounds for short distances.
• Ability to sit at a desk and walk around for different periods of time. 

Silver Hill Hospital
 208 Valley Road, New Canaan, CT. 06840
www.silverhillhospital.org

Silver Hill Hospital has mandated the COVID-19 vaccination for all staff, contractors, consultants, students, and volunteers. For more information, or accommodation questions, please reach out to the Human Resources Department.

All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.