Donor Events Leader

University of Nebraska Foundation Careers•Omaha, NE

20h•Hybrid

About The Position

Be a trusted, strategic partner to enable the University of Nebraska to change lives and save lives. Are you motivated to collaborate with leadership and colleagues to achieve shared goals? Do you bring strong leadership skills and a passion for management? Do you love creating experiences that showcase impact and express gratitude? Do you thrive in deadline-driven environments and enjoy thinking strategically? Are you inspired by the mission of the University of Nebraska Foundation and looking to make a difference in the lives of others? If so, we invite you to apply for this exciting role! At the University of Nebraska Foundation, we grow relationships and resources that enable the University of Nebraska to change lives and save lives. We believe that our strong commitment to inclusion and respect is essential to accomplishing this mission through our values of teamwork, integrity, and passion for mission. We invite, explore, and celebrate differences to increase productivity, spark innovation and most importantly, accomplish our mission. You will join the foundation at an exciting time, with the opportunity to make a transformational impact. The foundation is in the public phase of a historic campaign to raise $3 billion to build a better future for Nebraska. The campaign is being led by many enthusiastic volunteers representing all areas of the University of Nebraska System. This position will work in our Omaha office and will require occasional nights and weekends. We offer flexibility for hybrid work.

Requirements

Strategic planners who can look forward to the “big picture” while also focusing on the small details.
Reliable, organized, and adaptable individuals who can meet deadlines, manage multiple responsibilities, and effectively prioritize competing priorities.
Detail oriented and intellectually curious individuals who ask questions, think strategically, and take initiative.
Adaptable problem-solving individuals who can effectively prioritize and execute multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment with proven problem-solving skills.
Thoughtful communicators who can connect with others by listening and asking the right questions.
Team players who can function independently, as well as part of a team.
Bachelor’s degree required.
7-10 years of progressive experience in donor engagement, events management, advancement, or related fields.
Demonstrated strong oral and written communication skills.
Discretion in handling and navigating confidential matters.
Candidates will also be evaluated on our core values of passion for mission, integrity, and teamwork.

Nice To Haves

Degree in communications, journalism, public relations, hospitality, restaurant and tourism management.
Master’s degree preferred.
Experience using data to measure effectiveness, create dashboards, or guide strategy.
Experience in higher education or at a nonprofit.
Proven experience leading teams, managing direct reports, and developing staff.
Demonstrated success overseeing complex events, donor experiences, or high-level institutional functions.
Experience collaborating with senior leaders or executive-level partners.
Ability to coordinate and manage a variety of projects and programs simultaneously.

Responsibilities

Lead, manage, and develop the donor events team responsible for donor engagement strategies and signature events across the University of Nebraska system.
Provide strategic vision and oversight to ensure all donor experiences align with foundation and university goals, stewardship standards, and campaign priorities.
Work closely with campus fundraisers, c-suite executives, and other foundational colleagues in strategizing and creating a world-class donor experience.
Manage logistics for donor events including desired outcome or theme, budget, invitation management, registrations, catering, and décor.
Prepare evaluation and donor event follow-up materials as needed.

Benefits

Mission-driven work that changes lives and saves lives.
A strengths-based, engagement-focused, and performance-oriented culture.
Ongoing learning and development opportunities for your career growth.
An award-winning wellness program.
12 weeks of paid medical leave, including maternity and paternity leave.
12 paid holidays and generous vacation time.
A generous retirement match and multiple incentive compensation programs.
University of Nebraska tuition reimbursement for you and your dependents.
Recognition by the Chronicle of Philanthropy as one of America’s Favorite Charities.
Founded in 1936, the University of Nebraska Foundation provides support for the campuses in the university system — the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, University of Nebraska at Kearney, University of Nebraska at Omaha, Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture in Curtis, and the University of Nebraska Medical Center and its primary clinical partner, Nebraska Medicine.
Among public universities, the University of Nebraska ranks in the top 25 nationally for both funds raised and endowed assets under management.
The foundation has a reputation for efficiency and effectiveness, raising more than $7 for every $1 spent.
Winner of Gallup’s Don Clifton Strengths-Based Culture Award.
Winner of the Governor’s Harvester Wellness Award, the highest honor for corporate wellness.
The University of Nebraska Foundation is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to a work environment free from discrimination and harassment where all employees feel respected and valued.