Senior Associate Director, Special Events

at Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois, United States Job Description Apply for Job Job ID52884 LocationEvanston, Illinois Add to Favorite Jobs Email this

Job Department:

Alumni Relations & Development Salary/Grade:

EXS/10

Job Summary:

The Senior Associate Director is a strategic leader within Alumni Relations and Development, responsible for delivering high-impact, mission-driven events that support presidential engagement, deepen donor relationships, and advance ARD priorities. This role leads the design, planning, and execution of complex, high-profile events-often involving the President, trustees, major donors, and distinguished guests-and ensures these experiences align with ARD's advancement goals. Operating with a high level of judgment and autonomy, the Senior Associate Director offers guidance on event strategy, messaging, and stakeholder engagement. The position plays a key role in managing relationships with high-profile alumni, donors, faculty, and campus partners, advancing institutional objectives through strategic event experiences. This role may also supervise staff and temporary employees, setting expectations for excellence, enhancing team practices, and coaching staff through sophisticated planning processes. The Senior Associate Director reports to the Senior Director of Special Events in Alumni Relations and Development. Successful candidates will have extensive experience producing complex, high-visibility events, exceptional relationship-management and strategic communication skills, and a demonstrated ability to lead teams, shape event strategy, and deliver mission-driven experiences that advance ARD's institutional goals.

Please note:

The target budgeted salary for this position is $90,000 - $95,000 annually. Offers will be based on candidate experience and education, as well as equity within Northwestern University. Hybrid work schedule, in person a minimum of 3 days and 2 remote days a week. Must be available nights and evenings throughout the calendar year. For full consideration, please submit a cover letter with your resume.

Specific Responsibilities:

Lead the concepting, planning, and execution of complex events hosted or attended by the President, including groundbreakings, dedications, board and donor engagements, regional events, and campus-wide ceremonies. Develop comprehensive event strategies, including run-of-show documents, staffing plans, production schedules, and partner briefings. Oversee protocol, guest experience, and overall event flow to ensure seamless execution and alignment with university standards. Anticipate risks, troubleshoot issues in real time, and make informed decisions under pressure. Lead cross-departmental planning teams, ensuring clarity of responsibility, accountability, and strong communication. Provide executive-level guidance on event best practices, operational efficiencies, and process improvements. Ensure compliance with campus policies, safety requirements, and contract guidelines. Develop and manage event budgets, ensuring accurate forecasting, responsible financial stewardship, and timely reconciliation. Negotiate contracts and manage vendor relationships, including caterers, production teams, hospitality partners, and rental companies. May draft special budget requests for manager review; responsible for full budget oversight for events planned in this role. Oversee larger budget-tracking documents and contribute to a streamlined, comprehensive financial database. Supervise and mentor staff working on high-level programs, supporting long-term skill development and operational excellence. Establish performance goals, evaluate workload capacity, and foster a collaborative, solutions-oriented team culture. Oversee project timelines, team assignments, and training needs to ensure readiness for presidential-level events. Works under broad direction with a high degree of independence. Miscellaneous Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

Successful completion of a full 4-year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelor's or higher degree: OR appropriate combination of education and experience. 6 years special events, development, marketing, sales or equivalent experience is required

Minimum Competencies:

(Skills, knowledge, and abilities.) Event Execution - Ability to plan and deliver complex, high-profile events with precision and professionalism. Stakeholder Communication - Strong written and verbal communication skills; able to interact effectively with senior leaders, donors, and trustees. Project and Budget Management - Ability to manage multiple priorities,... For full info follow application link. Northwestern University is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action Employer of all protected classes, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply. To view full details and how to apply, please login or create a Job Seeker account