Big Fish

Compensation

Full Description

Director of Events Leadership Institute – Arlington, VA Leadership Institute has retained the recruiting firm Big Fish on this search. Please contact Angel Fimbres-Barcelo at angel@recruitbigfish.com for any questions or referrals regarding the role. Big Fish is a boutique recruiting firm specializing in the talent needed to drive policy change. Visit us at recruitbigfish.com to learn more. About the Leadership Institute Founded in 1979 by its president, Morton C. Blackwell, the Leadership Institute (LI) — a non-partisan 501(c)(3) nonprofit — provides training in campaigns, fundraising, grassroots organizing, youth politics, and communications. The Institute teaches conservatives of all ages how to succeed in politics, government, and the media. Since its founding, LI has trained more than 300,000 conservative activists, leaders, and students. Position Overview The Director of Events is responsible for the strategic planning, management, and execution of the Leadership Institute’s events portfolio — including flagship programs, fundraising events, donor engagements, and staff activities. This senior role oversees event operations, logistics, and staff, ensuring excellence in execution and alignment with the Institute’s mission and development goals. The Director serves as a key leader in the organization and will hire, train, and manage the growing Events team, collaborating across departments, and cultivating vendor relationships. This role also plays a leading role in the planning and execution of special donor receptions and high-profile public events that advance the Institute’s visibility and impact. Key Responsibilities Leadership & Management • Lead, mentor, and develop the Events team, including direct oversight of the Programs Operations Coordinator and other event staff. • Establish and manage departmental goals, budgets, and timelines to ensure smooth and efficient operations. • Develop and implement systems for event planning, vendor management, and post-event evaluation. • Oversee the use and maintenance of all LI event spaces, including the 3rd floor rental space, dormitories, and staff apartment. Event Planning & Execution Oversee the strategic planning, promotion, and management of key Institute events such as: • The Wednesday Wake-Up Club Breakfast • The Annual National Conservative Fourth of July Soirée • Donor and alumni events • Regional or national conferences and receptions • Manage the full event lifecycle — from concept and logistics to staffing, sponsorship, and post-event analysis. • Ensure high-quality experiences that reflect the Institute’s standards of professionalism and mission alignment. Fundraising & Donor Engagement • Partner with the Development Department to plan and execute fundraising events and donor stewardship activities, in the office and around the country. • Identify and pursue sponsorship and partnership opportunities that support event success and Institute growth. • Contribute to donor communications and event-related marketing to maximize engagement and financial support. Operations & Facilities Management • Oversee the use, maintenance, and scheduling of shared building spaces and facilities. • Manage external clients utilizing LI’s rental and event spaces, ensuring a professional and mission-aligned experience. • Direct the maintenance and stocking of all kitchens and on-site meetings spaces to ensure they are prepared to serve the needs of internal and external clients. • Conduct regular inventory checks and ensure adequate supplies for all events and operations. Staff & Culture Events • Plan and execute internal events such as staff meetings, retreats, trainings, and appreciation activities. • Foster a positive, organized, and mission-driven environment across all event and operations initiatives. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree preferred. Minimum 5–7 years of event management experience, including supervisory and budgetary responsibilities. Proven experience with fundraising events, donor relations, or nonprofit development. Excellent leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills. Strong attention to detail, ability to multitask, and commitment to excellence. Familiarity with conservative organizations or political movements preferred.