Coordinator of Fundraising, Signature Events

National Multiple Sclerosis Society•Chicago, IL

23h•$55,000 - $60,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The National Multiple Sclerosis Society mobilizes people and resources to drive research for a cure and to address the challenges of everyone affected by MS. To fulfill this mission, the Society funds cutting-edge research, drives change through advocacy, facilitates professional education, collaborates with MS organizations around the world, and provides programs and services designed to help people with MS and their families move their lives forward. We partner with volunteers to accomplish our work. Staff members engage volunteers through effective and timely communications, facilitating meaningful opportunities, and continually seeking and providing feedback for reciprocal growth and learning. Job Summary: The Coordinator supports the planning, execution, and evaluation of fundraising events such as galas, luncheons, and auctions within a regional portfolio. This role collaborates with internal teams and volunteers to ensure seamless logistics, compelling participant experiences, and strong community engagement. With a focus on detail, communication, and donor stewardship, the coordinator plays a key role in advancing the organization’s mission through successful events. Location Requirement: This is a market-based role supporting our Midwest Region -- Greater Illinois, Indiana Chapter. The position requires regular, in-person attendance at meetings, constituent interactions, and events as well as travel as required and necessary up to approximately 50% of the work time. During the remaining time, work is primarily conducted remotely from either a home office or a National MS Society workspace (Society workspace not provided in all geographies). Preferred location(s): Candidates must be based and work within the Chicago, IL area.

Requirements

1+ year of administrative, fundraising, or customer service experience, preferably in a nonprofit or development setting.
Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage calendars, track deadlines, and maintain accurate records.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook); experience with donor databases or CRM systems is a plus.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with attention to detail in correspondence and data entry.
Ability to handle confidential information with discretion and professionalism.
Comfortable supporting event logistics, donor mailings, and general office tasks.
Team-oriented mindset with a willingness to learn and take initiative in a fast-paced environment.

Nice To Haves

experience with donor databases or CRM systems is a plus.

Responsibilities

Event Planning & Execution Support: Supports regional event planning, execution, and volunteer recruitment for galas, luncheons, and auctions within a regional portfolio. Provides onsite staffing support for market and regional events ensuring all logistical elements are in place. Develop event materials including but not limited to donor briefings, run of shows, event layouts, and event participant and volunteer lists.
Volunteer & Vendor Coordination: Support volunteer recruitment, onboarding, and scheduling for events; serve as the point of contact for volunteers, providing clear communications to ensure volunteers are well-informed and engaged. Provides support for vendor coordination including but not limited to event supplies management. Track inventory and ensure timely delivery and setup of event materials.
Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work cross-functionally with regional development coordinators to provide support for regional event or cultivation initiatives. Collaborate with development coordinators to promote sharing and adherence to SOPs for enhanced team efficiencies. Develop SOPs that support team workstreams and provide a consistent execution and donor experience.

Benefits

considerable Paid Time Off Plan
Paid Holidays
401k Retirement Savings Plan with Society match
Commuter Benefit Plan
Comprehensive Health & Welfare benefits including:
Medical
Dental
Vision
Flex Spending Accounts
Life Insurance
Disability Coverage
Spring Health Membership offering free therapy and professional coaching, as well as additional voluntary benefit offerings.