Assistant/Associate Director of Alumni Affairs & Strategic Events

University of Florida • Gainesville, FL

5d

About The Position

The Assistant/Associate Director of Alumni Affairs & Strategic Events is responsible for developing targeted constituent programming and leading the planning and execution of all College of Education including departmental and unit-specific initiatives in support of the college’s priorities in alignment with the strategic plan. Reporting to the Executive Director of Advancement, this position will create and implement opportunities that leverage faculty, staff, alumni and constituent involvement and engagement resulting in directed philanthropy through the college and university.

Requirements

• Assistant Director: Master’s degree in an appropriate area of specialization; or a bachelor’s degree in an appropriate area of specialization and one year of relevant experience.
• Associate Director: Master’s degree in an appropriate area of specialization and one year of appropriate experience in alumni affairs or related field; or a bachelor’s degree in an appropriate area of specialization and three years of appropriate experience in alumni relations or related field.
• A valid driver license and good driving record are essential.
• The ability to pay for expenses using your own personal credit card or funds and have them reimbursed is essential.

Nice To Haves

• Master’s degree in an appropriate area of specialization.
• Three to five years of relevant experience preferred.
• A history of successful higher education program leadership in alumni relations, development, or marketing/communications is strongly preferred.
• A successful track record in a related profession – such as marketing, communications, non-profit management, special events, student affairs, enrollment management – combined with a strong affinity for the University of Florida and the Gator Nation also will be given consideration.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, strong interpersonal abilities, and the capacity to engage effectively and collaboratively with a wide range of individuals are essential.
• Support the University’s commitment to creating a respectful and collaborative work environment that value integrity, professionalism, and mutual respect in all interactions; demonstrated success collaborating with stakeholders; strong project management skills; experience in a data-driven environment; excellent organizational abilities; and the capacity to lead, influence, and inspire others are essential.
• Proficient in the following areas: Windows operating systems, Microsoft Word, Excel, and Access, as well as internet browsers and email platforms.
• Familiarity with donor databases, contact management systems, and tracking systems is also highly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee major college special events and activities, including the Retired Faculty Luncheon, COE Holiday Celebration, Staff Appreciation Luncheon, and the Alumni Reception at AERA Convention.
• Oversee the College of Education recognition ceremony, partnering with the COE EduGator team and additional college event teams to coordinate program development, speaker selection, and facility logistics in support of the spring commencement.
• Build and maintain positive, collaborative relationships with the Office of the Dean, Student Affairs, and other COE units.
• Serve as primary event liaison with invitees, vendors, and staff, etc.
• Order college promotional items for development and college outreach.
• Develop and maintain policy for rental and use of COE event planning materials including tablecloths, COE branded items, donated materials, etc.
• Support student services activities and COE Student Ambassador Program.
• Assist student groups (i.e., event promotion, providing college signage).
• Manage and oversee the Advancement Student Assistant’s schedule and task assignments.
• Lead the planning, coordinating, and execution of all college-based alumni and donor events, as well as campus visits for constituents interested in supporting the college. The events include, but are not limited to, donor recognition dinner, alumni tailgates, local and regional alumni and donor receptions, constituent campus visits, Grand Guard alumni return visits, and other UF Alumni Association events requiring college involvement.
• Coordinate and manage events for the College of Education and those events deemed appropriate by the Dean and the Director of Development.
• Oversee, develop, and implement initiatives designed to engage alumni through strategic partnerships with college development officers that advance prospect relationships and enhance the donor pipeline.
• Research and identify potential honorees for alumni engagement awards.
• Partner with UF Advancement’s Strategic Communications, Marketing & Engagement team to align outreach to alumni, donors, and friends, ensuring consistent messaging throughout all platforms, including social media, web presence, email campaigns, newsletters, magazine publications (department), invitations, etc.
• Research and identify potential COE alumni to serve on the UFAA and UF National Boards.
• Supervise, support, and develop the Alumni Relations & Events Assistant.
• Create strategic alumni programming and events to support the work of the Office of Advancement and aid the movement of prospects through the donor cycle.
• Execute planning and logistics of engagement opportunities of college’s top donors, including coordination with internal and external stakeholders.
• Strengthen partnerships with the UF Advancement & UF Alumni Association to ensure alignment with strategic initiatives and alumni signature programs including partnering on fundraising initiative events.

Benefits

• Affordable State Health Plans: Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Comprehensive Coverage: Life and Disability Insurance
• Secure Retirement Options: Generous plans to safeguard your future.
• Paid Time Off: Including 11 paid holidays, as well as family, sick, and vacation leave.
• Professional and Personal Growth: Opportunities through UF Training & Organization Development, leadership development, LinkedIn learning, and more
• PSLF Eligibility: We are a Public Service Loan Forgiveness Eligible Employer

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level