Manager, events & paRTNERSHIPS

Location: Midtown Manhattan (Hybrid – 3 days/week in office)
Salary: $65,000–$75,000 + discretionary annual bonus
Reports To: Director, Events & Partnerships
Supervises: Associate(s), Events & Partnerships

About Us:
Citymeals on Wheels provides a continuous lifeline of meals and vital human connection to homebound older New Yorkers. Since our founding, we have delivered more than 70 million meals. As we approach our 45th year of service, we remain committed to our goal of ending elder hunger in New York City by 2040.

We are seeking a highly organized, creative and relationship-driven Manager, Events & Partnerships to join our team. This role is an opportunity to combine your passion for hospitality, food culture and fundraising in service of a meaningful mission.

About the Role:
Citymeals’ Events & Partnerships team raises more than $4.6 million annually through four signature events, seasonal campaigns and strategic collaborations. These efforts are deeply rooted in New York City’s culinary and hospitality community, which has supported Citymeals since its founding.

As Manager, you will lead the execution of large-scale, high-profile fundraising events while cultivating corporate partners, restaurant supporters and longtime donors. You will manage the day-to-day operations of the department, supervise Associate(s) and support the Director of Events & Partnerships.

The role also provides opportunities to engage with the broader organization, including attending meal deliveries and visiting the Bronx Distribution Center, to stay grounded in the impact of your work.

The Ideal Candidate:
The ideal candidate is a seasoned events professional with a passion for food, a sharp eye for detail and a talent for building meaningful relationships. You are energized by both logistics and the storytelling that make events memorable. You are a capable and compassionate people manager, equally comfortable mentoring junior staff and rolling up your sleeves to keep projects moving forward.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Lead planning and execution of four annual signature fundraising events, plus smaller gatherings and collaborative campaigns throughout the year.
  • Manage all phases of event production, including venue and vendor selection, contracting and negotiations, budget development and tracking,run-of-show, guest experience and day-of logistics.
  • Support the Director of Events & Partnerships in long-term strategy and team growth.
  • Supervise and mentor junior staff members.
  • Solicit and steward corporate sponsors, food and beverage donors and hospitality partners.
  • Maintain relationships with chefs, restaurateurs and other culinary supporters.
  • Coordinate with internal teams (Marketing, Communications, Major Gifts, Programs, Volunteers and executives) for cross-functional alignment.
  • Ensure effective communication with honorees, co-chairs, donors and board members.
  • Identify new fundraising opportunities while deepening relationships with long-standing Citymeals partners.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Minimum 5 years of experience in nonprofit events, fundraising or hospitality-focused event production.
  • At least 3 years of people management experience, including staff development and supervision.
  • Strong communication and relationship management skills, with confidence engaging high-level donors, chefs and VIP stakeholders.
  • Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
  • Experience with vendor management, budgeting and contract negotiation.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office; experience with Raiser’s Edge, Salesforce or similar CRM tools and Monday.com or project management platforms.
  • Ability to work evenings and weekends as needed for events.
  • Genuine enthusiasm for Citymeals’ mission and belief in the power of food to build connection and community.

Why Join Citymeals:

  • Work for a mission-first organization with a 45-year legacy of nourishing homebound older adults.
  • Take part in meaningful events that drive real change in New York City.
  • A collaborative and inclusive work environment where the experiences, talents and ideas of diverse staff are valued.
  • Opportunities for personal and professional development.
  • Comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, disability and life insurance as well as transit benefits and communications reimbursement.
  • Flexible spending accounts.
  • 403(b) retirement plan with employer match.
  • Generous paid time off and holidays.

How to Apply:
Submit your resume and cover letter to careers@citymeals.org with “Manager, Events & Partnerships” in the subject line. Qualified candidates will be contacted via phone or email. Finalists will be subject to reference and background checks. Citymeals on Wheels is an Equal Opportunity Employer.