Development Events and Stewardship Associate

Walker Art Center•Minneapolis, MN

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Walker Art Center is seeking a dynamic, experienced, and creative special events professional to manage member and donor events. This role involves planning, executing, and evaluating a wide range of events and experiences for Walker members and donors, including tours, receptions, luncheons, dinners, donor affinity group experiences, cultivation, stewardship, and campaign-related events. The position also supports the annual fundraising event, Avant Garden. The Associate will engage in both high-level strategy and detailed event execution, collaborating with various internal teams, external partners, and volunteers to foster greater engagement with the Walker. Additionally, the role includes managing a travel program for prospective travelers.

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.
Ability to lift and/or move objects weighing up to 20 pounds.
Requires frequent walking and standing throughout the workday.
Ability to sit for extended periods as needed.
Regular use of a computer screen and other digital devices.
All applicants must be eligible to work in the United States without the need for employer sponsorship.

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 for member and donor events.
Manage event-related marketing and communications.
Plan and Execute Member/Donor 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, collaborating with curators, event production, visitor experience, facility and catering teams, security, and other departments.
Ensure members and donors receive outstanding service, meaningful communications, and compelling benefits and experiences.
Provide ongoing evaluation of events and stewardship offerings.
Support the Director of Benefit Events in the planning and preparation of the annual fundraiser, Avant Garden.
Support Avant Garden committee meetings.
Serve as departmental liaison for selected vendors, internal collaborators, and event production for Avant Garden.
Support event logistics and execution for Avant Garden.
Conduct research on domestic and international travel destinations for the travel program.
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 for the travel program.
Actively participate in departmental and cross-departmental meetings.
Support Development-related projects.
Maintain a thorough understanding of the Walker’s mission, vision, values, strategic plan, and programming.
Stay aware of philanthropic and arts industry best practices.