DIRECTOR, ADVANCEMENT EVENTS

About the role

Provides strategic leadership for the planning, execution, and continuous improvement of a comprehensive portfolio of advancement events and engagement experiences that support alumni engagement, donor cultivation, and stewardship goals. This role ensures events align with institutional priorities, strengthen relationships with key constituents, and advance the division’s fundraising and engagement objectives.

Responsibilities

• Develops and implements a comprehensive advancement events strategy that supports divisional and institutional priorities.
• Establishes long-term planning frameworks for signature events, donor cultivation experiences, and alumni engagement initiatives.
• Oversees a comprehensive calendar of advancement events, ensuring alignment with fundraising cycles, engagement goals, and institutional priorities.
• Directs the planning and execution of high-visibility and signature events, including alumni programs, donor recognition activities, cultivation events, and stewardship experiences.
• Collaborates with advancement leadership, campus stakeholders, and external vendors to design and deliver cohesive and impactful events.
• Serves as the primary liaison between Advancement and institutional event units to ensure coordinated efforts and efficient resource use.
• Develops and manages event budgets, timelines, and logistical planning processes.
• Maintains operational procedures, vendor relationships, and risk management practices.
• Supervises staff, contractors, and volunteers involved in event planning and execution, as applicable.
• Designs and implements evaluation methods to measure event effectiveness and engagement outcomes, and uses data to inform future strategy.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; combination of education and relevant experience may be considered.
• Minimum of 5–7 years of progressively responsible experience in event management, preferably in higher education, nonprofit, or advancement environments.
• Demonstrated experience leading complex projects and managing multiple priorities.
• Strong strategic planning, communication, and relationship-building skills.
• Experience using data and metrics to evaluate engagement efforts.

Benefits

We pride ourselves on providing our benefit-eligible employees with comprehensive benefits, including:

• Healthcare including vision and dental
• Generous Paid Time Off Policies
• 403B Retirement Savings Plan with Matching Employer Contribution
• EAP
• Flexible Work Plans
• Education Benefits
• Career-Enhancing Trainings

Pay

$75,000-$80,000, commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Schedule

Full-time