Special Events and Development Coordinator at Greater Birmingham Humane Society

Special Events andDevelopment Coordinator

General Position Summary

The Special Events and Development Coordinator will workwith the Development Team to plan and execute GBHS’ signature events—includingthe Jazz Cat Ball, Putts for Paws, Clear the Shelters, and other fundraisingand community engagement events throughout the year. These events are vital toraising funds, cultivating donor relationships, and increasing awareness ofGBHS’ mission to serve people and pets through rescue, adoption, education, andadvocacy.

Essential Responsibilities

The Special Events and Development Coordinator must beself-starting, highly organized, and able to work both independently andcollaboratively under tight deadlines. Evening and weekend hours are required,along with occasional travel.

The ideal candidate will have a strong belief in GBHS’mission, a love for event planning and donor stewardship, and a commitment toexcellence in customer service. They must be able to interact effectively witha wide range of stakeholders—from major donors and corporate sponsors tovendors, volunteers, and staff—with professionalism, respect, and care.

Key responsibilities include:

• Gather and organize event information internally; participate in brainstorming and planning sessions.
• Research venues, vendors, and event resources.
• Proofread and coordinate all materials related to events (programs, signage, invitations, sponsor packets, etc.).
• Serve as liaison to vendors, venues, and sponsors on event-related matters.
• Prepare preliminary budgets and track all event finances.
• Schedule events on both the macro (annual calendar) and micro (detailed event planning) levels.
• Obtain quotes for contracts for venues, catering, AV, décor, travel, signage, and supplies.
• Assist with data entry and management of online and silent auctions, including drafting solicitation letters, coordinating with donors, tracking items, supporting auction platforms, and ensuring fulfillment.
• Oversee event registration, guest lists, and database management.
• Prepare all “day-of-event” materials and coordinate logistics.
• Coordinate with volunteers, event committees, and “day-of” staff.
• Provide on-site event management assistance, ensuring smooth execution from setup to breakdown.
• Conduct post-event evaluation, debriefs, and reporting; ensure donor information is properly recorded, and acknowledgements are sent.
• Collaborate with Development staff to support sponsorship fulfillment, donor stewardship, and fundraising campaigns.
• Assist with grant support, donor correspondence, and stewardship activities as needed.
• Other job duties as necessary.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree and at least 2 years of experience in planning large-scale nonprofit events.
• Experience working in a development or advancement department preferred.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to engage and support a highly diverse group of volunteers—ranging from students to senior leaders—with patience, professionalism, and respect.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage and motivate volunteers and staff.
• Confidence with managing conflict and working with a highly diverse volunteer corps.
• Ability to remain calm and resourceful under pressure, handling last-minute changes and requests with professionalism and efficiency.
• Familiarity with donor management systems, event software, and auction platforms a plus.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

About GBHS

Founded in 1883, the Greater Birmingham Humane Society(GBHS) is Alabama’s largest and oldest animal welfare organization. A 501(c)(3)nonprofit, GBHS serves thousands of animals annually through its four majordivisions: Animal Care & Control, GBHS Critical Care and Spay/NeuterHospital, Adoption Center, and Outreach & Disaster Response. GBHS iscommitted to rescuing, rehoming, and providing resources to improve the livesof both people and pets in our community.

Position Details

This is a full-time, salaried position based in Birmingham,Alabama. After an initial employment period, employees become eligible forGBHS’ comprehensive benefits package, including group health and dentalinsurance, paid time off, and other benefits.

The GBHS is an equal opportunityemployer. It is the policy of GBHS to provide EEO to all persons regardless ofage, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability,race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/orexpression, genetic information, marital status, status with regard to publicassistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal,state, or local law.