Director, Special Events

Overview

The Lighthouse Church and Ministries seeks a creative, innovative and dynamic Director, Special Events.  The successful candidate will manage the execution of a wide range of events varying in size and scale while demonstrating excellence in strategic planning, budgeting, vendor relations, and logistics management, as well as other event management duties that align with the goals and objectives of the organization.  

Responsibilities

The essential functions include, but are not limited to the following:

Strategic Event Planning. In collaboration with senior management, develop and execute a comprehensive event strategy that aligns with the organization’s vision, mission, goals, and objectives.

Event Execution. Oversee the coordination and execution of various events including large conferences, special events, campus programs, product launches, concerts, etc. Ensure all logistical, technical, and operational details of events are meticulously planned and flawlessly executed.

Budget Management. In partnership with senior leadership and the finance team, develop, and manage event budgets to ensure optimal allocation of resources and adherence to financial targets. Implement cost saving strategies and identify revenue generating opportunities.

Strategic Partnerships. In collaboration with the finance, communications, and production departments, identify and cultivate strategic partnerships to enhance event offerings, attract sponsors, and expand the organization’s outreach.

Vendor and Stakeholder Management. Establish and maintain relationships with vendors, suppliers, venues, and partners to secure necessary services and resources. Negotiate contracts, manage vendor performance, source materials and services needed for events (catering, audio-visual equipment, décor, entertainment, etc.), and ensure alignment with organizational standards.

Logistics Management. Oversee logistics, e.g. venue selection, setup and breakdown, transportation, accommodation, and other necessary arrangements.

Metrics and Evaluation. Define key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure success of events and their impact on organizational objectives. Conduct post-event evaluations to gather feedback, analyze data, and identify areas for improvement.

Risk Management. Identify potential risks and develop contingency plans to mitigate operational, financial, and reputational risks associated with events.

Team Leadership. Maintain an open and welcoming work environment.  Lead, guide, develop and support a team of volunteers and support staff.  Provide clear direction and  feedback.

Continuous Improvement. Stay abreast of industry trends, best practices, and emerging technologies in event management. Capitalize on opportunities to innovate and enhance event experiences and processes.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in event management, hospitality, marketing, communications, business administration, or a related field.
• Extensive experience (10 years) in event management, with a proven track record of successfully planning and executing large scale events.
• Strong leadership and management skills with experience in developing and motivating a team.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrate excellence in developing and managing relationships with internal teams, sponsors, vendors, venues, talent, and external stakeholders.
• Solid budgeting, financial management, and strong negotiation skills are imperative and required.
• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities, enabling management of multiple events and tasks simultaneously.
• Creative problem solver with demonstrated ability to expediently respond to and resolve unexpected challenges during events.
• Proficiency with event management software, project management tools, and other relevant technology is required.
• Meticulous attention to detail to ensure all events and processes are executed seamlessly.
• Flexibility and willingness to work variable hours (evenings and weekends), for preparation and during events; travel is required.

What we offer

• Competitive salary and benefits.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development.
• Ability to drive initiatives that shape the organization’s success
• Opportunities to participate in programs of significant impact
• Hybrid work schedule

Salary offers are based on a wide range of factors including but not limited to relevant skills, qualifications, and experience.  

About Us

The Lighthouse Church and Ministries is a dynamic rapidly growing organization that proudly supports more than 20,000 members, with five campuses throughout the Greater Houston, TX area including an online community with 900,000 unique weekly viewers globally, across all social media platforms. The Lighthouse Church and Ministries is fulfilling its mission and call to action to serve its members and the community by moving towards greater, turning away no one, expanding every person, setting a great atmosphere, accepting others through love, being authentic to who we are, and anticipating the presence of God in every experience.

The Lighthouse Church and Ministries is an equal opportunity employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.