Director of Athletic Events

Major Duties And Responsibilities

• Direct all operational aspects of athletics events including design, planning, venue logistics, production schedules, guest experience design, onsite program management, and execution of all required event processes and procedures to maintain the highest standards.
• Collaborate with athletics leadership, coaches, development officers, and marketing teams to integrate fundraising initiatives, sponsorship opportunities, and brand messaging into all events.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with alumni, donors, sponsors, and community partners to expand participation and financial support for athletics initiatives.
• Administer and maintain accurate event records, reports, and budgets for all assigned events.
• Support the ongoing data management processes needed in various master calendar scheduling and internal communications.

Specific Duties And Responsibilities

• Direct the planning and production of the Blue & Gold Gala, working with development officers to sustain “sponsor gifts” of $30,000+ as well as matching donors, ensuring the even reaches $1million+ every year.
• Oversee Quarterback Club programming, building engagement opportunities for football supporters through coordinated events featuring coaches, players, and athletics leadership as well as organize all Quarterback Club specific events.
• Manage Bobcat Club events in coordination with the Assistant Athletic Director, Bobcat Club, highlighting donor impact while strengthening relationships between scholarship recipients and program supporters. Work closely with the Associate Athletic Director, Development on RevShare on aligned events.
• Oversee donor and VIP hospitality experiences, including exclusive receptions, meet-and-greet opportunities with coaches and student-athletes, and premium event access.
• Lead the execution of basketball-related events, including tip-off celebrations, donor hospitality functions, and post-season events that strengthen relationships with supporters and season ticket holders.
• Lead the execution of volleyball-related events, specifically with the Sideout Club, aimed at increasing attendance each year.
• Oversee the Hall of Fame Banquet, working with the athletics marketing team to create a marketing plan to increase attendance.
• Create VIP events where large groups are based.

Special Skills And Qualifications

• Strong multi-tasking and organizational skills.
• Great interpersonal skills and the ability to positively interact with internal and external clients, vendors and donors.
• High level event design skills including but not limited to floral, décor, table schemes and venue infrastructure expertise.
• Strong computer skills in Microsoft Office, Photoshop, Adobe Paint or comparable, various graphic design programs, and web research.
• Willingness to take initiative and plan events with moderate to little supervision.
• Strong problem-solving skills under pressure both in design phases and onsite during events.
• Ability to stay calm and focused during times of change or alteration prior to events and during events.
• Ability to react and respond if needed in ‘live’ scenarios to provide the very best event guest experience.
• Friendly, enthusiastic, and positive attitude behind the scenes and ‘live’ during events.
• Ability to maintain a positive attitude and creativity despite a high volume of events.
• Willingness to learn and professionalize event elements such as lighting, sound and creative sets.
• Physical ability, including the capability of lifting up to twenty-five (25) pounds, and willingness to fully engage in event supply transfers, sets, and takedown processes.
• Willingness to travel and to work occasional evenings and weekends.

Benefits

• The MSU Alumni Foundation offers a comprehensive benefit package which includes medical, dental, and vision insurance (all of which are 90-100% employer-paid for employee-only coverage).
• 403(b) retirement plan with 7% employer contribution after 1-yr anniversary.
• Up to 5 weeks’ paid time-off, 11 paid holidays, tuition assistance and more.

Applications And Recruitment

Qualified candidates should submit a cover letter, a resume, and three professional references online. Recruitment will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.

Pay

Compensation will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Schedule

N/A