Job Description

The Director of Special Events is responsible for producing, managing and consulting for logistical aspects of college-wide, alumni, and advancement events and programs. Events and programs include but are not limited to: presidential dinners and receptions, development donor society and special donor recognition events, receptions and dinners held in conjunction with college endowed lectures, college facility groundbreakings and dedications, as well as one-time events. Works closely with administration and college committees and internal and external contractors as appropriate to plan events and initiatives. Involves considerable interaction with VIP’s and various internal and external constituencies.

Key Responsibilities:

•Collaborates with senior leadership to create innovative fundraising strategies that align with organizational goals.

•Supports special projects in collaboration with the Vice President and Associate Vice President that facilitate stewardship of donors, established giving societies, campaign donors, etc.

•Serves as consultant to Advancement and college-wide community regarding appropriate planning, protocol, promotion of and standards for college special events.

•Works in conjunction with senior administrators and sponsor groups to conceptualize professional event standards.

•Plans and coordinates, or provides consultation for, all aspects of high-profile special events that represent important college initiatives.

•Sources, negotiates, coordinates and oversees management of all logistical arrangements. Assigns activities to staff while maintaining creative and administrative control. Writes and edits copy used in events and donor recognitions. This may include invitations, scripts, biographical introductions, and individual donor briefing information.

•Manages all development and Board-related events hosted by the President. Supervises all aspects of event execution on-site, ensuring a seamless experience for participants.

•Ensures implementation of post-event measurement and assessment tools to evaluate successes and areas for improvement, ensuring continuous enhancement of services.

•Develops and manages detailed budgets, ensuring all expenses are tracked and controlled for fundraising events.

•Develops focused events intended to cultivate and engage prospects and convert them to donors. Coordinate efforts with major gift officers and relevant offices.

•Work with catering, campus safety, outside vendors and other key campus constituents to plan and execute events.

•Develops and implements an effective calendar of all events and programs that are aligned with the mission and goals of the College and the Advancement Division.

•Supervises staff and/or student workers who assist with special events.

•Coordinates recognition

• of all college-level awards including annual Medalist, Maroon by Choice, etc.

•Performs other duties as assigned and travel as required.

Education, Experience, Skills, and Abilities:

•Bachelor’s degree required, preferably in business, marketing or hospitality

•5 years of experience planning, and developing large scale events working with internal and external partners. Experience in high-profile event planning or management.

•Proficiency in MS Office products with an ability to learn college specific programs. Knowledge of CRM Advance a plus.

•Exceptional communication skills, both verbal and written, as well as attention to detail and problem-solving.

•Professional demeanor, adaptability and a passion for delivering exceptional customer experiences.

•Sensitivity to highly confidential information; complete discretion is required.

•Some evening and weekend work required.

•Ability to work in a high stress face paced environment.

About Roanoke College

Roanoke College is a place where every student who works hard has the opportunity to succeed. We champion potential, providing essential learning and leadership through innovative academic programs and transformative educational experiences, giving students the mettle, mindset, and empathy to pursue lives of purpose, build meaningful careers, and meet society’s most pressing needs. Located in scenic Salem, Virginia, Roanoke College is an intimate, welcoming community that has served the local region and beyond for nearly 200 years. Now, we’re building on momentum and offering a Roanoke experience for today’s students and a legacy that belongs to every Maroon.

Roanoke College is a nationally ranked residential liberal arts college affiliated with the Lutheran Church (ELCA), located in the beautiful Roanoke Valley of Virginia. A Phi Beta Kappa institution, Roanoke College is an equal opportunity employer and actively seeks diversity among its faculty, staff, and students; women and members of under-represented groups are especially encouraged to apply.

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