Assistant Director Of Events And Programming

The Assistant Director of Events and Programming is responsible for planning a range of events for College Relations (CR). From intimate dinners to large multi-day events, the assistant director will be responsible for coordinating, creating and planning all logistics. Additionally, this position will build awareness, both internally and externally, for all assigned Office of Events and Programming (OEP) events by using the college's primary marketing tools/platforms. This position must have the ability to manage multiple projects at one time, work independently and pay strong attention to details.

Assistant Director Responsibilities

• Coordinate College Relations in-person events arranging for event needs and work closely with on- and off-campus vendors (including, but not limited to, linen rental companies, florists, caterers/dining services, tech services, campus police and physical plant).

• Serve as main event lead for Alumni & Family Engagement (AFE) events such as:

• Orientation events for families

• Wildcat Weekend (family weekend)

• On and off campus affinity reunions

• Commencement Week events

• Serve as main event lead for select Davidson Athletic Fund (DAF) events such as:

• Tailgating

• Annual Football Stakeholder event

• Serve as main event lead for select annual/biannual signature reunions and events such as:

• Scholarship luncheons/dinners

• Lectures

• For all assigned events, this position will be the primary point person, making independent decisions to arrange event logistics and programming.

• Responsible for building, managing and tracking all expenses and revenues to fit within the event budget.

• Manage event communications and online registration forms in the college database.

• Create and monitor communication timelines based on varying event schedules. Draft, build, test and send event emails (invitations, reminders, day before/of and follow ups) in the college database.

• Collaborate with the OEP team to develop creative event themes and logistics.

• With guidance from the associate director, identify and execute long-term projects of personal interest that serve the OEP and provide valuable professional experience.

• Assist events team with other virtual and hybrid event needs as possible.

Minimum Qualifications

• 1-2 years of event management experience

• Exceptional project management and time management skills: highly organized and results-driven, and accountable with the ability to handle high pressure, last-minute, urgent requests. Detail-oriented in a fast-paced environment.

• Excellent oral and written communication skills.

• Strong editorial skills. Needs to be able to both write and edit effectively and efficiently.

• Strong interpersonal skills; excellent internal and external customer service.

• Demonstrates strong critical thinking skills and solution-oriented approach to challenges.

• Ability to keep a calm exterior in the face of high pressure situations.

• Ability to manage a high volume of projects simultaneously and smoothly.

• Must have proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint.

• Must be able to problem solve as challenges arise, keeping what is best for Davidson and the event's guests in mind.

• This person must be able to collaborate and effectively communicate with OEP, CR, campus partners and outside vendors.

• Comfortable working within limited budgets while managing, building and tracking them.

• Must be willing to learn Davidson College's database and marketing system (Blackbaud) and Google Suites, EMS booking system. Training on the college's software systems will be provided.

• Need to lift 20+ pounds, to move boxes and supplies, be able to travel between locations on campus on foot or on golf cart, and willingness to be outside in various weather conditions

• Valid driver's license required.

• Position requires evening and weekend work to staff/run events appropriately and occasional travel

Desired Skills & Abilities

• Bachelor's degree

• Innovative problem solver, possesses a "can-do" attitude, self-starter and take initiative with new projects

• Exceptional interpersonal and communications skills are necessities, as well as the ability to manage a high volume of projects with competing deadlines.

• Ability to work seamlessly with numerous internal and external college constituencies required.

• Superior attention to detail, but also the ability to understand and appreciate big-picture program development. Well-developed leadership ability, strong organizational skills, and self-motivation.

• Familiarity with Canva.

• Willing to learn virtual and in-person event planning software platforms like Social Tables and EMS booking software.

• Ideal candidates will be able to work and develop relationships with individuals with a wide range of job responsibilities and skill sets.

As a part of your application materials, a resume and cover letter are required. Information about how to submit the application documents can be found at https://employment.davidson.edu