Events Associate

About The Columbus Foundation: One of the top 10 largest community foundations in the country, The Columbus Foundation works to strengthen and improve our community through the most effective philanthropy possible. Now in its 80th year, The Columbus Foundation has been a partner and advisor to our donors and nonprofit community in order to improve our region’s collective well-being.

Department description: The Facilities and Support Services Department is dedicated to ensuring a welcoming, secure, and efficient environment for all who interact with the Foundation. This department plays a vital role in supporting the Foundation’s mission by managing facilities, coordinating support services, and delivering high-quality events that enhance the guest experience. The team collaborates across departments to create seamless, impactful events that reflect the Foundation’s commitment to community and excellence in philanthropy. We focus on operational efficiency, guest experience, and security, ensuring that the Foundation remains a beacon of support and inspiration for our community.

Position description: The Events Associate is responsible for managing and coordinating all event logistics, both onsite and offsite, to enhance the experience of Foundation staff and guests. This role serves as the internal creative director and logistics manager for planning and executing events and meetings. The position collaborates closely with the Communications and Marketing team, the Office of the President and CEO, and other internal departments, reporting directly to the Manager of Facilities.

Key Responsibilities

I. Event Planning & Management

A. Develop event strategies and budgets to optimize guest and staff experiences for a variety of Columbus Foundation events and meetings.

B. Work closely with the President and CEO on unique events that elevate the public value of the Foundation, including but not limited to:

i) Spirit of Columbus Award

ii) Celebration of Philanthropy

iii) Holiday Open House

iv) Other events and dinners as planned by the President and CEO

C. Manage vendor relationships to ensure seamless event execution and high-quality experiences, including hospitality, food, and beverage vendors.

D. Provide on-site logistical and AV support and troubleshooting during events and meetings.

E. Maintain and oversee the calendar of events, including in-house and offsite meetings.

F. Coordinate and manage scheduling for external organizations utilizing Columbus Foundation meeting spaces.

II. Facilities & Guest Services

A. Support the Facilities function by coordinating meeting and event setup, which may include:

i) Catering arrangements

ii) Seating configurations and table décor

iii) Audio/visual setup and breakdown

iv) Staff meetings and Governing Committee meetings

B. Facilitate and support communication across Columbus Foundation departments, ensuring attention to detail for unique meeting and event requests.

C. Manage guest services needs, including ordering special menu items to accommodate dietary restrictions.

III. Operations & Supplies Management

A. Oversee ordering and inventory of guest service supplies, including:

i) Beverage station and snack inventory

ii) Catering-related paper goods and supplies

B. Supervise the catering and kitchen areas to maintain cleanliness and organization while supporting the Foundation’s sustainability goals.

C. Provide emergency backup support for front desk operations.

D. Handle miscellaneous projects as assigned by the Manager of Facilities.

Skills and Qualifications:

· At least five (5) years of experience in event planning, project management, or hospitality.

· Strong organizational and project management skills.

· Excellent communication and collaboration skills.

· Ability to remain calm under pressure and problem-solve in real-time.

· Experience with Microsoft Office and event management software.

· Awareness of legal liability issues related to event management.

· Ability to create a welcoming and friendly atmosphere.

· Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to interact warmly and professionally with a diverse range of individuals.

· Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively.

· Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and maintain confidentiality.

· Attention to detail and a proactive approach to problem-solving.

· Positive attitude and team-oriented mindset.

· Previous experience in a nonprofit or similar environment is a plus.

The Columbus Foundation offers a number of benefits to employees, including: medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off, 401(k) employer contribution, tuition reimbursement, student loan repayment, parental leave, and a matching gift policy.

The mission of The Columbus Foundation is to assist donors and others in strengthening and improving our community for the benefit of all its residents.

The Columbus Foundation is an equal opportunity employer.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $66,300.00 - $82,742.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift

Work Location: In person

Salary : $66,300 - $82,742