Development Events and Stewardship Associate

Walker Art Center•Minneapolis, MN

About The Position

The Walker Art Center empowers people to experience the transformative possibilities of the art and ideas of our time and to imagine the world in new ways. In our over 125-year history, we have become one of the most celebrated art museums in the country and we are known for our innovative presentations and acclaimed collections of contemporary art across the spectrum of the visual, performing, and media arts. Reporting to the Director of Annual Fund and Operations, the Development Events and Stewardship Associate plans, executes, and evaluates most events and experiences for Walker members and donors. The Walker seeks a dynamic, experienced, and creative special events professional to manage member and donor events, including but not limited to tours, receptions, luncheons, and dinners; donor affinity group experiences; cultivation, stewardship, and campaign-related events; and supports our annual fundraising event like Avant Garden. Working at various levels, the Development Events and Stewardship Associate is engaged in both high-level strategy as well as detailed event execution. This position collaborates with Development colleagues, interdepartmental teams, Walker trustees, committees, vendors, partners, special guests, and volunteers to design a wide range of events and experiences, all intended to move members and donors toward greater engagement with the Walker along a continuum from interest to ownership.

Requirements

A minimum of two years event related experience or equivalent combination of education/training.
Proficiency with computers, Microsoft Office, Adobe, and databases.
Availability and willingness to work evenings and weekends as needed.

Nice To Haves

Demonstrated success in planning and executing high-level, creative events for members and donors.
Superb organizational, interpersonal, written and oral communication skills.
High degree of initiative and attention to detail.
Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment successfully
Excellent relationship-building skills and experience in leading and motivating teams.
Ability to work well independently and as part of a team
Ability to remain poised and calm under pressure.
Strong judgment and ability to work with discretion and sensitivity to confidential matters.
Experience working in a museum, arts, or non-profit setting.
Familiarity with workplace technology and database systems, such as CRM platforms, project management tools, event scheduling software, and related operational systems.

Responsibilities

Develop Event Plans and Schedules: Lead planning sessions with Development/Membership leadership to create, implement, and evaluate an annual plan and schedule for member and donor events. Manage event-related marketing and communications in alignment with the Development team’s communications plan.
Plan and Execute Member/Donor Events: Oversee the planning, logistics, and evaluation of a wide range of events, including tours, receptions, luncheons, dinners, Member Nights, After Hours, Double Discount Days, and donor affinity group experiences. Manage day-of-event details such as guest check-in, attendance, and onsite logistics. Serve as an interdepartmental liaison, representing the Development team at institutional scheduling meetings and collaborating with curators, event production, visitor experience, facility and catering teams, security, and other departments.
Cultivation and Stewardship: Ensure members and donors receive outstanding service, meaningful communications, and a compelling array of benefits and experiences designed to foster deeper engagement. Provide ongoing evaluation of events and stewardship offerings, incorporating feedback and best practices to continually improve outcomes.
Benefit Event (Avant Garden) Event Logistics and Committee Support: Support the Director of Benefit Events in the planning and preparation of our annual fundraiser, Avant Garden. Support Avant Garden committee meetings with the Director of Benefit Events. Serve as departmental liaison for selected vendors, internal collaborators, and event production. Support event logistics and execution before, during, and after the Benefit Events.
Travel Program Management: Conduct research on domestic and international travel destinations, including potential travel companies, hotels, restaurants, and transportation. Collaborate with vendors and staff to develop and finalize trip itineraries. Prepare and distribute invitations and communications for prospective travelers. Handle registrations, reservations, record-keeping, and reporting.
Team Engagement: Actively participate in departmental and cross-departmental meetings. Support Development-related projects, collaborating effectively with colleagues across the Walker.
Institutional Knowledge: Maintain a thorough understanding of the Walker’s mission, vision, values, strategic plan, and programming. Stay aware of the philanthropic and arts industry best practices to inform event and donor engagement strategies.