Special Event Specialist

Reports To: Senior Director of Integrated Marketing and Communications

Our Mission

To bring the healing, help, and hope of Jesus Christ to those in need with a compassionate, caring presence.

Position Summary

The Special Event Specialist reports to the Senior Director of Integrated Marketing & Communications (IMC) in the Central Ministry Office and leads the planning and execution of events for Catholic Charities ministry. This role designs and delivers experiences that elevate organizational and ministry-specific brand visibility, deepen community engagement, and strengthen sponsor relationships. The Specialist oversees all phases of event development, logistics, timelines, budgets, vendor coordination, risk management, and committee support, ensuring each event aligns with IMC strategy, advances ministry goals, and provides a seamless, welcoming experience for guests and partners. Working collaboratively with ministry leaders, internal teams, and external stakeholders, the Special Event Specialist supports sponsorship opportunities for all events and guides future planning and continuous improvement. Through thoughtful coordination, clear communication, and mission-centered execution, the Special Event Specialist advances the work of the IMC and the mission of Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of St. Louis by building strong community awareness and supporting ministry philanthropy, programs, and initiatives.

Overview & Responsibilities

• Plan and execute special events in partnership with Catholic Charities’ ministries that advance marketing, communications, community engagement, and philanthropy objectives.
• Lead event logistics end-to-end, including timelines, budgets, vendor/venue coordination, and internal task management.
• Collaborate with existing ministry volunteer/event committees to coordinate support needs and align planning with ministry goals.
• Work with ministry leadership and philanthropy teams to identify, help solicit, if necessary, and help steward sponsors and donors, ensuring coordinated outreach, recognition, and fulfillment.
• Build and maintain relationships with key community stakeholders if warranted to expand event reach and impact.
• Partner with IMC and ministry teams to align event promotion, messaging, and storytelling with brand standards and ministry priorities.
• Track and report on event outcomes (attendance, revenue, expenses, sponsorship results, and feedback) to guide future planning and improvement.
• Support ministry-led giving initiatives connected to events (i.e., holiday drives) through coordinated logistics and communications.

Knowledge & Experience Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Communications, or Public Relations and/or at least 3–5 years of experience in project management, preferably within a marketing and communications setting.
• In-depth understanding of philanthropy, outreach, event management, and communications principles.
• Proficiency in project management tools and software.

Skills & Competencies

• Excellent organizational skills with meticulous attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate with diverse stakeholders and build strong relationships.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and a proactive approach to identifying and addressing challenges.
• Ability to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and manage time effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Writing proficiency in the area of marketing and communications.

Incumbent’s public positions and values must be in complete agreement with those of Catholic Charities and the teachings of the Catholic Church.