Director of Programs and Special Events

Title: Director of Programs and Special Events, Full-Time

Reports to: Principal 

Location: Cardinal Mooney High School | Sarasota, FL

Classification: Salaried/Exempt 

Overview

Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School seeks a mission-centered, relational, and strategic professional to lead the planning, coordination, and execution of fundraising events and engagement programs that advance the mission and strategic priorities of the school. As a member of the Advancement team, the Director is responsible for creating meaningful experiences that strengthen relationships with alumni, parents, donors, and community partners while generating philanthropic support for the school.

Job Responsibilities

• Program Leadership: Develop, coordinate, and execute educational mission-driven educational programs, including but not limited to securing guest speakers, organizing symposiums and special presentations, and creating meaningful experiences for students, family, alumni, and other community members.
• Special Event Leadership: Plan, manage, and execute major Advancement events, including the Annual Gala, Golf Tournament, donor-recognition events, campaign receptions, and other school fundraising and community-building initiatives.
• Fundraising & Sponsorships: Develop event sponsorships, underwriting opportunities, and revenue-generating activities in collaboration with the Director of Advancement.
• Donor Engagement: Create opportunities to cultivate prospective supporters, strengthen existing donor relationships, and expand philanthropic participation.
• Program & Financial Management: Oversee event budgets, timelines, vendors, volunteers, committees, logistics, and post-event evaluations to ensure operational excellence and financial accountability.
• Advancement Collaboration: Work closely with Advancement colleagues, school administration, and community partners to align events and programs with the school's broader fundraising, engagement, and stewardship strategies.
• Other duties as assigned. 

• Bachelor's degree required.
• Demonstrated experience planning and executing successful events, preferably including fundraising, sponsorship development, and volunteer coordination preferred.
• Exceptional organizational, project-management, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, develop relationships, and work collaboratively with diverse constituents.
• Strong financial stewardship, attention to detail, creativity, and proficiency with event-management technology.
• Commitment to the Catholic mission, values, and educational philosophy of Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School.

Please note: State of Florida law requires fingerprinting and clearance through the Florida DOE Background Screening Clearinghouse for all school-based positions. For informational purpose only:  https://info.flclearinghouse.com/