Director of Reunion and Classes

Vanderbilt University•Nashville, TN

7d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Classes and Communities Team partners with class-based volunteers to strengthen lifelong connections among alumni and with Vanderbilt. We recruit, build and activate volunteer networks, partner across Vanderbilt to execute an elevated alumni experience, create meaningful Reunion and Homecoming traditions and experiences, and drive a spirit of Vanderbilt for Life. Through a year-long planning process, our nearly 400 volunteers inspire thousands of classmates to come back to Vanderbilt and give back to Vanderbilt, driving a deeper, lifelong connection to Vanderbilt. The Director of Reunion and Class Engagement manages the annual operating plan for undergraduate Reunion and Class Agent programs, while leading and developing a team of four team members. The Director is responsible for overseeing the direction and management of these complex alumni-centric programs with multiple stakeholders which requires a strong project management, communication, marketing and volunteer recruitment skillset. The Director will have a mindset of continuous improvement to build and amplify this program year after year, building on the program’s solid foundation to further enhance reporting, processes, and marketing efforts to engage alumni, driving annual giving participation, and increase attendance at Reunion/Homecoming weekend. About the Work Unit: The Department of Development and Alumni Relations (DAR) assists Vanderbilt University in securing the resources, both human and financial, that are required to achieve its mission and goals. The Department is responsible for the identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of individuals and organizations whose charitable objectives are consistent with those of Vanderbilt University’s teaching and research programs.

Requirements

A Bachelor's Degree, or the equivalent, is necessary
Five or more years of relevant experience is required
Higher education experience required with a preference for Reunion/Homecoming roles
At least two years of supervisory experience is required
At least two years’ direct experience managing volunteers
Experience managing a complex program with multiple partners and stakeholders, while also leading and developing a team; must possess strong project management skills, communicate clearly and effectively, and navigate and collaborate with partners throughout the organization.
Strong technical skills; Has led complex email messaging strategies and journeys, is comfortable navigating CRM, and using AI, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.
Strong ownership; Ability to work independently, take initiative, manage multiple projects simultaneously, meet deadlines, and adapt to ever changing priorities
Excellent interpersonal skills and judgment suitable for exercising appropriate discretion and demeanor when dealing with alumni, parents, friends, and employees
Some evening and weekend work required, as needed, with advance notice
Driving is considered an essential job function for this role. Must have and maintain a valid driver's license and a satisfactory driving record. Vanderbilt University engages a third party to provide up-to-date notifications regarding negative changes to motor vehicle records.

Nice To Haves

preference for Reunion/Homecoming roles

Responsibilities

Manages a team of four Associate Directors to manage and engage over 400 volunteers including volunteer identification, recruitment, and day-to-day communication and management, ultimately driving connection to Vanderbilt and encouraging their classmates to come back and give back
Designs and implements a focused plan to grow annual giving participation from undergraduate classes through increased volunteer outreach and peer-to-peer Reunion solicitation
Drives engagement, philanthropy, and ambassadorship between milestone Reunion years through a holistic Class Agent program including communications, class books, and peer-to-peer outreach
Collaborates with University Ceremonies and Events team to plan and execute Reunion and Homecoming
Collaborates with MarComm to manage promotion (includes marketing calendar, print pieces, emails, social media ads, website, photography and video)
Collaborates with Advancement Information Services to innovate and streamline data reporting and analysis
Works with Development Team to identify and recruit volunteers, and to solicit volunteers as needed for annual gifts to ensure 100% participation from volunteers
Partners with Development Team to drive milestone Reunion giving, participation, and annual giving donor pipeline; Identifies prospects for referrals to discovery and major gift pipeline
Serves as liaison to Professional School partners to coordinate the Reunion experience for all alumni
Performs other duties as assigned