The Assistant Director of Events and Engagement, part of the Advancement Team at the College of Science and Engineering (CSE), designs, collaborates on, and executes events and programs that foster alumni engagement, drive annual and major giving, and strengthen donor stewardship.
Key Responsibilities: Alumni and Donor Event and Program Management (65%)
In partnership with the Director of Events and Director of Alumni Relations, develop, manage, implement, and assess approximately 20-30 events per year including receptions, reunions, luncheons and dinners, facility tours, hosted athletic events, lectures, meetings, webinars, and more
Develop and maintain a thorough working knowledge of the vision, philanthropic priorities, and campaign initiatives of CSE and the University and conduct activities aligned with advancing those goals and maximizing engagement
Establish and execute work plans, timelines, reports, and other required documentation, as appropriate
Provide comprehensive event support, including registration, nametags, mailings, preparation of collateral, day-of logistics, and post-event reporting or follow-up
Monitor budgets, pay invoices, and manage vendor relationships for assigned events
Ensure all events and engagement efforts reflect CSEâ™s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, fostering a welcoming environment for all participants
Volunteer and Relationship Management (20%)
Build and maintain relationships with alumni, donors, and volunteers that enrich their lives and advance the University
Represent the University to stakeholders as an informed ambassador
Tap alumni talent to support University and CSE goals
Collaborate with leaders, faculty, and staff across CSE to showcase the impact of the collegeâ™s research and educational initiatives
Work with alumni and donor volunteers through programs such as reunions, mentorship, geographic outreach, alumni recognition, speakers, etc.
Recruit, train, and manage internal and external volunteers, committees, and project teams for specific events and programs
Track alumni and donor engagement and execute information requests and queries within the Universityâ™s Donor Management System
Communications (15%)
Develop and manage event and engagement communications that inspire participation and reinforce CSEâ™s mission
Build and send email messages on behalf of CSE using Salesforce Marketing Cloud
Collaborate with communications staff to develop compelling invitations, registration/payment pages, and miscellaneous collateral
Field calls and e-mails from alumni and donors
Required Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree from a four-year institution
Minimum of 4 years of experience planning and executing events and programs (or related experience)
Demonstrated proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, as well as Google applications (calendar, email, etc.)
Evidence of excellent verbal and written communication skills
Proven ability to work with volunteers, donors, and/or vendors
Strong attention to detail
Strong commitment to customer service
Ability to manage and prioritize multiple projects, meet deadlines, and work independently and productively under pressure
Flexibility and initiative in managing change
Demonstrated problem-solving and research skills, with proven critical thinking ability
On event days: ability to spend 10+ hours engaging in physical activity, including lifting and moving boxes and items (up to approx. 35 pounds); setting up registration tables, displays and signage; greeting and assisting guests at registration; disassembling and packing event materials; and other tasks as assigned
Must be available to work a flexible schedule, including occasional weekends and evenings. Currently, the Advancement Team works from campus a minimum of three days per week (including Mondays and Thursdays). The ability to work from home may vary week-to-week, based on the nature of projects or events underway.
Preferred Qualifications:
Experience in an academic or nonprofit environment
Experience using digital marketing and engagement tools such as Zoom, Salesforce Marketing Cloud, Qualtrics, and/or comparable platforms
Experience collaborating with multiple staff in a fast-paced environment
The University of Minnesota, founded in the belief that all people are enriched by understanding, is dedicated to the advancement of learning and the search for truth; to the sharing of this knowledge through education for a diverse community; and to the application of this knowledge to benefit the people of the state, the nation, and the world.
