Director of University Advancement Events

Director of University Advancement Events

Job ID: 2021-10987
Category: Advancement

Overview
The Director of University Advancement Events is responsible for managing the division’s high-priority signature events including Cardinal Weekend, 1887 Society Weekend, and the Gratus Stewardship Dinner. The Director will also lead the planning and execution of multiple events related to Light the Way: The Campaign for Catholic University, including but not limited to endowed professorship installation ceremonies, a robust schedule of regional campaign events across the country, and a campus-based campaign closing celebration(s). The Director will also provide leadership in the creation of high-impact virtual and hybrid events to reach the broadest possible audiences. The Director will work in concert with colleagues on the Constituent Engagement team and the Advancement leadership team to ensure that Advancement events effectively support campaign priorities and provide highly engaging experiences for alumni, donors, and prospects. The position oversees the management of all aspects of each event/program, including project planning, programming, promotion, and budget management. The Director will serve as a planner and point of contact between University Advancement and event attendees, vendors, and internal and external constituents, including faculty and staff. The Director will be responsible to lead a small events team to effectively partner with and support the needs of internal clients. All events will be designed and executed to provide high-quality interactions with The Catholic University of America that will foster long-term engagement and encourage ongoing investment. Meet regularly with Constituent Engagement colleagues to ensure strategic alignment and shared vision.


Responsibilities
Working with the team, serve as the lead in creating and executing impactful experiences for University signature events, alumni engagement, divisional and school-based advancement events, and all events created to support the comprehensive Campaign. Collaborate to develop the strategic vision, including program/content, communication/marketing, all event logistics, and event evaluations. Serve as a reliable resource to Advancement colleagues in leveraging events to further key divisional and campaign priorities. Utilize extensive experience in the events field to create fulsome, strategic approaches to all events. Utilize the ability to extend the reach of Advancement events via virtual and hybrid event platforms to increase engagement potential. Build and manage a small team of events staff. Create consultative and collegial relationships with University Advancement colleagues to ensure effective planning and execution of events. Maintain master events calendar and communication.

Serve as the primary liaison for University Advancement with the University Special Events office and effectively partner with colleagues across the University to produce high-quality events within budget and time parameters. Direct all aspects of vendor discovery, negotiation, contract development and approval, and the procurement process. Keep thorough records and ensure timely and accurate completion of all budget-related components of events. Fully evaluate the efficacy of events. Create processes and infrastructure to support efficient project management of events. Maintain frequent and clear communication with internal clients and actively work to anticipate and meet client needs. Support the Division of University Advancement in achieving its strategic and fundraising goals, as well as Campaign goals, through positive and productive interaction and collaboration with all departmental staff, University liaisons, and external constituents.



Qualifications
A Bachelor's Degree and a minimum of five (5) to seven (7) years’ experience in education, non-profit or similar work setting dealing extensively with all aspects of event management. Higher education experience is highly preferred. Deep expertise in live and virtual/hybrid events required. Supervisory experience preferred, but not required. Proven experience as an event planner will be evaluated.

Working knowledge of desktop applications and relational databases. The Director must demonstrate a high level of organization, initiative, professionalism, flexibility, and discretion. Ability to accept and process feedback and a collaborative working style are essential. CMP or other event planning certification preferred. Must have excellent communications, organizational, and interpersonal skills. Attention to detail and ability to follow through on projects from conception and planning to implementation and evaluation is necessary.

Must have excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills. Must be able to manage multiple events simultaneously and manage a robust event calendar. Ability to communicate effectively with University colleagues and outside vendors. Attention to detail and ability to follow through on projects from conception and planning to implementation and evaluation is necessary. Must be willing to work independently in a fast-paced environment. Applicant should be flexible, hospitable, diplomatic, assertive, motivated, independent, creative, resourceful, and have an ability to solve problems calmly and quickly. Strong listening and comprehension skills are required—applicant must be able to listen to instructions carefully and correctly follow directions. Strong communication skills—applicants should write clearly, be able to follow written directions, and be able to speak effectively in front of large groups; The ability to drive a vehicle (campus or non-campus) on behalf of University business.

Possession of current and valid U.S. driver’s license appropriate to the type of university vehicle and an acceptable Motor Vehicle Driving Record (MVR) as stipulated in the Vehicle Guidelines and Procedures Manual administered through the office of Environmental Health and Safety. Annual clearance of MVR check through the Office of Environmental Health and Safety.



To apply, visit https://staff-cua.icims.com/jobs/10987/director-of-university-advancement-events/job?in_iframe=1
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