Associate Director Of Anchor Events

The Associate Director of Anchor Events will be responsible for the planning, coordinating, and execution of key events, originating in Alumni Engagement and Annual Giving (AE/AG). These events vary in complexity and scope.

Events programming plays an integral role in the connection of our vibrant, diverse communities. The Associate Director will work collaboratively within a cross-functional team environment to coordinate and execute logistics for high-impact experiences that result in progressive engagement and philanthropic opportunities for alumni, parents, students, and friends of the global Vanderbilt network.

Anchor Events range in format and size, including virtual and hybrid programs, on-campus events, and regional engagement series. The Associate Director of Anchor Events will both manage events from beginning to end and will also consult with University partners on best event planning practices.

This position reports to the Director of Anchor Events in Alumni Engagement and Annual Giving.

About the Work Unit :

The Department of Development and Alumni Relations (DAR) assists Vanderbilt University in securing the resources, both human and financial, that are required to achieve its mission and goals. The Department is responsible for the identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of individuals and organizations whose charitable objectives are consistent with those of Vanderbilt University’s teaching and research programs.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Serves as an event coordinator, managing a portfolio of events based in Alumni Engagement and Annual Giving. Works closely with the Director, Anchor Events and other key partners to ensure cohesive event planning across the team.

Responsibilities include, managing event planning and logistics, registration, webinars, budgets, vendors, timelines, run of show, and post event duties. This role continuously evaluates and improves events, utilizing data to inform decision-making and adopts technology to elevate experiences. Duties require being highly organized with the ability to adapt and prioritize as events evolve.

Develops best practices and instructional materials for events within AE/AG. Serves as subject matter expert on preferred team/divisional event registration system and leads training of team members in relevant self-managed projects and processes. May serve in a consultative role to partners at the Divisional and University level.

The Associate Director of Anchor Events must be able to manage multiple projects effectively and efficiently, all while ensuring that key goals and deadlines are met. The Associate Director must be skilled in the use of all Office products, event registration platforms, and well versed in digital tools (e.g., Zoom/Teams/YouTube). Additional experience with project management and client management tools are a must. Experience in Salesforce is a plus.

In addition to being a strong project manager, the Associate Director must possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Further, the Associate Director should have the ability to use sound judgement in all situations. Demonstrated experience in event management and customer service is required, and experience in higher education is preferred. The Associate Director must be able to travel domestically, perform physical labor and work extended hours as needed.

Education and Certifications:

• A Bachelor's Degree, or the equivalent, is necessary.

Qualifications :

• Values the importance of equity as an organizational operating principle and is committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion
• Strong organizational and communication skills
• Ability to exercise good judgment in the handling of confidential information
• One or more years of experience, or the equivalent, is necessary; Prefer experience with higher education development
• Ability to work independently, take initiative, manage multiple projects simultaneously, meet deadlines, and adapt to ever changing priorities
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Some evening and weekend work, as needed
• Goal-oriented mindset and innovative thinking
• Interpersonal skills and judgment suitable for exercising appropriate discretion and demeanor when dealing with alumni, parents, friends, and employees
• Ability to work independently but also collaboratively in a team environment
• Ability to use current computer technology, such as Windows, Excel, Word, and Vanderbilt’s donor management system

Key Characteristics of a Successful Team Member in this Work Unit:

• Is motivated. Manages time, activities and outcomes well so that progress stays on track. Balances multiple, competing priorities simultaneously without becoming overwhelmed.
• Expects and delivers excellence. Is proactive and focused on creative problem solving. Welcomes input to making things better. Places a high value on learning and improving.
• Shares information; communicates proactively; transmits knowledge; asks for advice and considers it thoughtfully.
• Genuinely values teamwork and co-workers.
• Holds oneself accountable; takes responsibility for failures as well as successes; and recognizes that trust is required to hold a team together.

At Vanderbilt University , our work - regardless of title or role - is in service to an important and noble mission in which every member of our community serves in advancing knowledge and transforming lives on a daily basis. Located in Nashville , Tennessee, on a 330+ acre campus and arboretum dating back to 1873, Vanderbilt is proud to have been named as one of “America’s Best Large Employers” as well as a top employer in Tennessee and the Nashville metropolitan area by Forbes for several years running. We welcome those who are interested in learning and growing professionally with an employer that strives to create, foster and sustain opportunities as an employer of choice through:

• Working and growing together as a community of communities... we are One Vanderbilt .
• Providing a work environment where every staff and faculty member can be their authentic and best self , while providing the resources and opportunities to learn and grow.
• Encouraging development, collaboration, and partnership both internally and externally while fostering the value that every member of the Vanderbilt community can lead and grow regardless of title or position.

We understand you have a choice when choosing where to work and pursue a career. We understand you are unique and have a story. We want to hear it. We encourage you to apply today so that you might become a part of our story.

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