Jobs & Internships

About Special Olympics Minnesota

SOMN (Special Olympics Minnesota) is a chapter of the world’s largest organization advocating for the advancement and inclusion of people with intellectual disabilities, and through current sports, health, and leadership programs engaging people with and without disabilities, provides a positive impact for Minnesotans of every age and every ability.

Position summary

The Special Events Manager is responsible for overseeing the planning, coordination, and execution of Polar Plunge events and various fundraising activities for Special Olympics Minnesota. This full-time role requires effective management of logistics, volunteer engagement, and on-site operations to ensure successful events that align with SOMN’s mission.

Reports to: Director of Special Events

Position responsibilities

1. Event management
   • Lead the management of Polar Plunge events and other fundraising initiatives, including charitable sports tournaments, races, and community partnerships.
   • Coordinate all logistics, ensuring seamless planning and execution of events.
2. On-site operations
   • Provide on-site management and direction during events to ensure a high-quality experience for attendees and participants.
   • Supervise staff and volunteers, ensuring proper engagement and adherence to safety protocols.
3. Financial tracking
   • Monitor and forecast revenue, expenses, and participation metrics for events to ensure financial targets are met.
4. Compliance and training
   • Maintain relevant training, certifications, and licenses to ensure compliance with all regulations and safety standards.
   • Direct and assist staff and volunteers in the proper handling of equipment.
5. Recruitment and relationship-building
   • Support Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) recruitment strategies, engaging law enforcement officers and agencies for participation.
   • Cultivate and maintain relationships with stakeholders to secure long-term engagement with SOMN’s mission and programs.
6. Support for organizational initiatives
   • Provide support for various SOMN events, competitions, and training activities, including logistics coordination and volunteer engagement.

Qualifications

• 2-4 years of experience in event planning regarding fundraising or nonprofits.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills to collaborate effectively with team members and external partners.
• Proven experience in customer service with demonstrated ability to connect with others and help various stakeholders achieve their goals.
• Must be able to pass a background check and have a clean drivers record with a valid driver’s license.
• Experience with CRM systems (such as Raisers Edge), and Microsoft Office Suite, preferred.
• Ability to work independently at times.
• Access to a vehicle as transport to and from events.

Working environment

• Hybrid schedule.
• Working outdoors – Some events are outdoors, such as sports events, Polar Plunges, and others. The number of events per year will vary and change seasonally. In heavier seasons, typically would not exceed 50% of time in a single week but could be up to 100% of your time in some instances.
• Working in hazardous environments – Work at outdoor events may include work in cold or warm temperatures which may require appropriate clothing or other protection to maintain health and safety. Some work may occur in winter conditions and will require accommodation for cold, snow and ice.
• Travel will be required for some events, including the occasional overnight trip to run events multiple days in a row.

Benefits

Our comprehensive benefits package includes health, dental, and vision insurance; life, AD&D, and long-term disability insurance; health savings account, flexible spending accounts, 401K plan, flexible time off and paid holidays.

Diversity, equity and inclusion

Special Olympics Minnesota is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, neurodiversity, age, parental status, socio-economic background, military service, or any other characteristic or status protected by applicable law.