Position Overview:

We seek a dedicated and dynamic Community Engagement Manager to drive community involvement in East Tennessee (Knoxville and Chattanooga), manage events, and assist with fundraising. The Manager will implement development campaigns, cultivate mid-level donor relationships, and manage and execute large-scale events. This role requires a passionate and experienced leader who can inspire others to support our mission, expand our impact, and ensure seamless event experiences for stakeholders. The role is based in Knoxville and involves regular travel to Chattanooga.

The mission of Men of Valor is to win men in prison to Jesus Christ and disciple them, equipping them to re-enter society as men of integrity, becoming givers to the community rather than takers. Men of Valor helps men involved in the criminal justice system transform their identity through new life in Jesus Christ while providing evidence-based pathways to a good life in society characterized by housing stability, financial mobility through employment, improved physical and mental health, restored relationships, and personal fulfillment.  

Key Responsibilities:

  • Event Management: Plan and execute events to engage donors, community members, and partners, including handling logistics, coordinating with venues, managing catering, and overseeing all event details. Men of Valor typically hosts two large-scale events yearly in each market: a fundraising breakfast (600 guests) and a night-time Gala (250 guests).
    • Venue Coordination: Select and negotiate with venues to secure favorable terms, manage contracts, and coordinate logistical and programming needs (e.g. audio/visual, etc.).
    • Catering Management: Work with catering providers to design menus, ensure high-quality service, and manage dietary considerations.
    • Registrant Communication: Maintain clear communication with event registrants, send confirmations, answer inquiries, and provide event updates.
    • Registration & Check-in: Oversee registration processes, manage event check-in, and ensure a welcoming experience for all attendees.
    • Post-Event Follow-Up: Ensure timely follow-up with attendees, partners, and sponsors to express gratitude, gather feedback, and maintain ongoing relationships.
  • Partnership Development: Collaborate with community partners, faith communities & leaders, corporations, and local organizations to build relationships that support the organization’s fundraising and event efforts.
  • Reporting & Analysis: Track and analyze fundraising and event performance, providing regular reports to the Executive Director and Board of Directors on progress, challenges, and opportunities. Experience using CRM, Sales, or Donor Management software is a plus.
  • Campaign Management: Coordinate, and oversee aspects of fundraising campaigns, ensuring successful execution and achievement of financial targets.
  • Donor Cultivation: Identify, cultivate, and steward relationships with donors, focusing on mid-level donors, faith communities, and corporate partners.
  • Donor Engagement: Create and implement engagement opportunities for current and prospective donors, including events, one-on-one meetings, and outreach programs.
  • Leadership & Collaboration: Work closely with the Philanthropy Team and other senior leaders to align fundraising and event efforts with organizational priorities and initiatives.

 Qualifications and Job Requirements:

  • Experience: A minimum of 5 years of experience in event management, fundraising, and/or development within a non-profit or related setting, with a proven track record in event coordination and donor engagement.
  • Education: A bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management, business administration, event management, or a related field is required.
  • Faith-Based Commitment: Strong understanding of and commitment to the faith-based mission of the organization, with experience in engaging faith communities.
  • Event Management Skills: Demonstrated ability to plan, execute, and manage events, with attention to detail and an understanding of logistical and guest management needs.
  • Leadership Skills: Demonstrated ability to lead and inspire a team, with excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Strategic Thinking: Strong analytical skills with the ability to implement fundraising campaigns and event plans.
  • Community Engagement: Experience working within the Knoxville & Chattanooga or similar communities, focusing on building partnerships and engaging diverse stakeholders.
  • Passion for Mission: Deep commitment to the organization’s mission of supporting the formerly incarcerated through programs and services.
  • A valid driver’s license and current personal automobile insurance: 50% travel to attend fundraisers, special events, ministry functions, etc.

Knowledge and Skills: 

  • Is a Christ-follower committed to Jesus Christ as his or her Lord and Savior.
  • Is a team player and is driven to serve others; people-oriented, with a desire to serve others.
  • Possesses strong interpersonal skills and is humble, gentle, dignified, and respectful of others.
  • Ability to react appropriately under pressure, apply good judgment, and use sound decision-making and problem-solving skills in a deadline-driven environment with a flexible schedule.
  • Ability to adapt and meet changing priorities with expected deadlines; pays attention to detail.
  • Can prioritize and handle multiple tasks simultaneously with an orientation toward accomplishment.
  • Ability to communicate effectively (written and orally) with various individuals.
  • Ability to handle confidential matters discreetly and efficiently.
  • Must be able to use discretion in matters related to the ministry and exercise sound judgment to problem solve through Biblical principles.

Application Process:

Interested candidates are invited to submit a resume, cover letter, and three references to Eric Anderson at eric@movministry.com. Please include “Community Engagement Manager” in the subject line. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

 Men of Valor is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.