Director of Advancement Events

Job Summary The Director of Advancement Events is responsible for the strategic planning, coordination, and execution of high-impact events and meaningful donor and constituent experiences that strengthen relationships, elevate the university's brand, and advance philanthropic support for institutional priorities. The Director of Advancement Events collaborates with development officers, stewardship and alumni engagement staff, athletics, the Office of Marketing & Communications, academic colleges, university administration, and community partners. The position requires exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, creativity, professionalism, and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment. Duties and Responsibilities Event Strategy & Planning Develop and execute a comprehensive advancement events strategy aligned with institutional fundraising and engagement goals. Plan and manage the following but not limited to: donor cultivation events, stewardship events, fundraising campaign events, presidential events, groundbreakings, ribbon cuttings, partnership with athletic hospitality events, and community engagement initiatives. Create event timelines, run-of-shows, budgets, guest lists, invitations, seating plans, and event logistics. Coordinate event calendars with university departments and external partners to maximize participation and visibility. Ensure all events reflect a high standard of professionalism, hospitality, and donor-centered engagement. Donor & Constituent Engagement Collaborate with development officers to identify strategic opportunities for donor engagement that enhance communication of philanthropic impact through event messaging, programming, and storytelling. Assist the Executive Director and the President's office in creating experiences that deepen relationships with alumni, corporate partners, volunteers, and friends of the university. Collaboration & Communication Serve as the primary liaison for advancement-related events across campus. Work collaboratively with university leadership, faculty, staff, vendors, sponsors, volunteers, and community stakeholders. Coordinate with marketing and communications teams on invitations, promotional materials, signage, scripts, presentations, and event branding. Prepare briefing materials and event information for leadership and special guests. Event Execution Oversee all aspects of on-site event management, including setup, vendor coordination, registration, hospitality, audiovisual needs, décor, catering, and guest experience. Manage event staffing, volunteers, and student workers as needed. Troubleshoot issues and provide solutions in real time to ensure seamless execution. Conduct post-event evaluations and provide recommendations for continuous improvement. Budget & Administrative Management Develop and manage event budgets while ensuring fiscal responsibility. Process contracts, invoices, purchase requests, and event-related documentation. Maintain accurate event records, attendance reports, and stewardship data. Track event outcomes and metrics related to donor engagement and participation. Minimum Qualifications Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree. Minimum of 3-5 years of professional experience in event planning, advancement, fundraising, hospitality, or related areas. Exceptional organizational, interpersonal, and project management skills. Strong written and verbal communication abilities. Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines with professionalism and attention to detail. Experience coordinating high-level or donor-facing events. Ability to work evenings and weekends as required by event schedules. Preferred Qualifications Experience in higher education, nonprofit advancement, or fundraising environments. Familiarity with donor stewardship and constituent engagement practices. Experience managing event budgets and vendor contracts. Knowledge of CRM or donor database systems. Supplemental Information Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Strong leadership and relationship-building skills. Ability to maintain discretion and confidentiality. Creative problem-solving and adaptability in fast-paced environments. Strong customer service orientation and commitment to hospitality. Ability to represent the university and foundation with professionalism and enthusiasm. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and event management platforms.