Director, Advancement Events

Ithaca College•Ithaca, NY

15h•Onsite

About The Position

This role provides strategic leadership for the planning, execution, and continuous improvement of a comprehensive portfolio of advancement events and engagement experiences that support alumni engagement, donor cultivation, and stewardship goals. The Director ensures events align with institutional priorities, strengthen relationships with key constituents, and advance the division’s fundraising and engagement objectives. Success in this role is measured by the ability to deliver well-attended, high-quality events that foster meaningful connections, increase donor engagement, and drive operational efficiency and innovation.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree required; combination of education and relevant experience may be considered.
Minimum of 5–7 years of progressively responsible experience in event management, preferably in higher education, nonprofit, or advancement environments.
Demonstrated experience leading complex projects and managing multiple priorities.
Strong strategic planning, communication, and relationship-building skills.
Experience using data and metrics to evaluate engagement efforts.

Responsibilities

Develop and implement a comprehensive advancement events strategy that supports divisional and institutional priorities.
Establish long-term planning frameworks for signature events, donor cultivation experiences, and alumni engagement initiatives.
Oversee a comprehensive calendar of advancement events, ensuring alignment with fundraising cycles, engagement goals, and institutional priorities.
Direct the planning and execution of high-visibility and signature events, including alumni programs, donor recognition activities, cultivation events, and stewardship experiences.
Collaborate with advancement leadership, campus stakeholders, and external vendors to design and deliver cohesive and impactful events.
Serve as the primary liaison between Advancement and institutional event units to ensure coordinated efforts and efficient resource use.
Develop and manage event budgets, timelines, and logistical planning processes.
Maintain operational procedures, vendor relationships, and risk management practices.
Supervise staff, contractors, and volunteers involved in event planning and execution, as applicable.
Design and implement evaluation methods to measure event effectiveness and engagement outcomes, and use data to inform future strategy.