special events manager

Join a creative and dynamic team committed to advancing the Buffalo Zoo

The Buffalo Zoo Events Manager is responsible for the creative development, coordination and implementation of all Buffalo Zoo signature events including major fundraisers, donor cultivation and private events intended to maximize Zoo revenue and attendance. Working at the Buffalo Zoo provides an opportunity to collaborate closely with all operations and executive teams, including the Board of Directors, the ProZoo Board and Women's Board, animal care.

Key responsibilities include:

·        The development and implementation of a full year of fundraising, cultivation and private events designed to raise revenue and expand outreach to targeted audiences. A sampling of past events includes: Zoomagination; Wines in the Wild; BuffaLove Fest; Art Gone Wild; and the annual Rendezvous In The Zoo Gala.

·         Establish and facilitate event committees

·        Coordinates all phases of event logistics from framework, audience outreach, implementation, and zoo décor and design.

·        Provides leadership and day-to-day management to the full-time Events Coordinator. Handles performance evaluations and resolutions. Provides a motivating environment for associate to perform and develop to their best potential.

·        Provides event related direction to Zoo partners including associates in guest services, grounds and maintenance to achieve zoo installations, fundraising, cultivation and private events.

·        Prepares an annual expense budget and business plan for each event/installation, with expense justifications. Monitors expenses within organizational guidelines.

·        Collaborates with internal resources including Animal Care, Development, Education, Grounds, Guest Experience, Marketing, Membership, volunteer management and facilities for event support as needed.

·        Communicates event details to appropriate parties and Zoo staff as a whole; evaluates event staffing requirements and recruits, coordinates, schedules and directs the activities of support staff and volunteers.

·        Conducts competitive intelligence, event surveys, and makes use of other mechanisms to keep events fresh and of interest to the general public.

·        With Development Director/Manager, serves as a liaison to the Gala Committee, leading the coordination and execution of annual gala logistics.

·        With Development Director/Manager, serves as a liaison to ProZoo Board and Women’s Board event committees to ensure coordinated efforts with zoo operations, marketing and branding.

·        Assists in the proposal, writing and production of signage, materials and hand-outs required for each event (including but not limited to invitations, maps, and other signage).

·        Assesses effectiveness of events, convenes post-event debriefing meetings, and prepares reports summarizing and delineating the results, financial and otherwise, documenting recommendations for the elevation of future events.  

·        Must deliver exceptional customer service by engaging with guests on a regular basis to create a friendly, memorable and positive experience. Ability to respond to common inquires, requests, or complaints from guests and/or staff in a kind and courteous manner.

·        Ability to effectively promote the organization.

·        Possess a can-do attitude, be resourceful, and communicate respectfully with everyone.

·        Interact with courtesy, professionalism, and respect to staff, docents, volunteers, and guests consistent with the organization’s mission and core values.

·        Verbal and written ability to communicate with Zoo staff. Able to interact positively with a variety of individuals from varied socioeconomically backgrounds frequently.

·        Performs other duties as required written communication skills