Event Manager

Wags & Walks is a reputable 501c3 nonprofit dog rescue organization with physical locations in Los Angeles, Nashville, and New York. Since its establishment in 2011, the organization has successfully rescued over 18,000 dogs, creating a lasting impact on the lives of many shelter dogs and their families. Wags & Walks is dedicated to promoting shelter dogs as the most loving, loyal, and family-friendly pets. Through a unique model of foster care and adoption programs, the organization strives to provide every dog with a second chance to find a loving home. The organization is strongly committed to the well-being of dogs and engages a passionate community of dog lovers who work together to advocate for shelter dogs and expand the reach of their life-saving programs.

This role is an exciting opportunity to join the Wags & Walks team as an Event Manager based in Los Angeles. The Event Manager position is designed for a highly organized, motivated, and dynamic professional who will lead the planning, coordination, and execution of fundraising events that sustain the organization’s mission and growth. The Event Manager will oversee a team of Event Coordinators and collaborate with volunteers to manage more than 150 annual events, ranging from small community fundraisers to large marquee gatherings including the renowned Block Party, Gala, and seasonal markets focused on Wellness or Holiday themes.

The position involves leadership and hands-on event management, balancing strategic planning with day-to-day operations. The Event Manager will be instrumental in maintaining an effective annual event calendar, negotiating partnerships, managing budgets, and ensuring brand consistency at every event. This role demands strong interpersonal and project management skills to work effectively with donors, volunteers, partners, and internal teams. A significant aspect of this position includes managing the seasonal New York “Pups Up” summer program, requiring a presence in New York for five or more weeks during the summer months to oversee activities and events.

Ideal candidates are dog lovers who thrive in fast-paced environments, possess excellent problem-solving and communication skills, and demonstrate an ability to motivate teams and develop volunteers. This full-time role offers a rewarding salary in the range of $75,000 to $85,000 annually, commensurate with experience, and includes comprehensive health, dental, and vision benefits, increasing paid time off, and a supportive work culture with team lunches and quality time spent with rescue dogs. Candidates will also need to be flexible regarding weekend and evening availability and comfortable with some travel, especially the summer engagement in New York.

Becoming the Event Manager at Wags & Walks is not just a job; it’s a chance to be a key contributor to a passionate community dedicated to saving dogs’ lives. This position allows one to combine a love for animals and a talent for event management to create impactful experiences that generate vital funding and awareness for shelter dogs. It offers a chance to grow professionally within a compassionate, mission-driven nonprofit environment while making a tangible difference in the animal rescue world.