Event Fundraising and Sponsorship Specialist

By joining our team, you’ll be part of our life-changing Mission and Vision. You’ll work in a truly inclusive environment where diversity and equity are championed through words and actions. You’ll contribute to an innovative culture that is second to none, one that embraces curiosity, discovery and compassion. You’ll play a role in something that’s never been done before as we integrate science and clinical care to help patients achieve better, faster outcomes — as we Advance Human Ability, together. Job Description Summary The Event Fundraising and Sponsorship Specialist is essential to driving the organization’s fundraising success, taking the lead on revenue development for at least three major events: Skyrise, Spark!, and Art In Motion. This person will manage a portfolio and work with relationship managers, volunteers, and individual donors, and corporate partners to unlock philanthropic support through sponsorships, peer-to-peer campaigns, and engaging event experiences. The position involves cultivating and soliciting individual, corporate, and volunteer contributors, while continuously seeking ways to strengthen donor connections and ensure ongoing event revenue growth. The Event Fundraising and Sponsorship Specialist consistently demonstrate support of the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab statement of Vision, Mission and Core Values by striving for excellence, contributing to the team efforts and showing respect and compassion for patients and their families, fellow employees and all others with whom there is contact at or in the interest of the institute. The Event Fundraising and Sponsorship Specialist will demonstrate Shirley Ryan AbilityLab Core Attributes: Communication, Accountability, Flexibility/Adaptability, Judgment/Problem Solving, Customer Service and Core Values (Hope, Compassion, Discovery, Collaboration and Commitment to Excellence) while fulfilling job duties. Job Description The Event Fundraising and Sponsorship Specialist will: Direct all fundraising activities for Skyrise, Spark!, and Art In Motion, ensuring each event achieves or surpasses its revenue targets. Manage a portfolio of event-based prospects Independently and in partnership with relationship managers and volunteers to identify, engage, and solicit donors and prospects for events. Oversee corporate involvement, designing sponsorship packages, facilitating peer-to-peer fundraising, and fostering lasting corporate partnerships. Assess and refine sponsorship materials to stay in step with donor expectations, industry shifts, and event goals. Identify and engage new prospects, volunteers, and corporate advocates to broaden event participation and support. Work alongside the advancement team to weave event donors into overall donor stewardship and engagement strategies. Track, analyze, and report on fundraising results for events; recommend approaches to boost donor participation and revenue. Offer creative ideas for event expansion, corporate collaboration, and donor engagement to grow sustained philanthropic backing. Help leverage events to qualify major and principal gift prospects. Deliver on annual event based fundraising and qualification goals to ensure a consistent pipeline for the future. Reporting Relationships Reports directly to Chief Development Officer / Senior Vice President of Philanthropy Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Required Bachelor’s degree or comparable experience. Three to five years of experience in fundraising, corporate partnerships, or event-based philanthropy or marketing Demonstrated ability to secure gifts, especially through corporate relationships and peer-driven fundraising. Exceptional organizational skills and the ability to juggle multiple projects and meet deadlines. Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills. Experience collaborating with volunteers, boards, or committees to advance fundraising efforts. Genuine enthusiasm for the mission and the ability to represent the organization with professionalism and energy Working Conditions Normal office environment with little or no exposure to dust or extreme temperature. Pay and Benefits*: Pay Range: $61,872.00 annually - $102,707.00 annually Benefits: Shirley Ryan AbilityLab offers a comprehensive benefits program that is competitive with our industry peers in our geographic locations:*Benefits and benefits’ eligibility can vary by position. Actual compensation will vary based on applicant’s experience and qualifications, as well as internal equity. The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified. Equal Employment Opportunity ShirleyRyan AbilityLab is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Created: 2025-09-20