The North Dakota State University Foundation seeks mission-driven individuals interested in joining a growing team dedicated to connecting people, developing partnerships, teamwork, accountability, transparency, stewardship, communication, and service. The Foundation invites candidates for a Asst Director of Events and Programs - Regional Engagement, full-time non-exempt position. Possible titles include Assistant or Associate Director and will be determined based upon the experience level of the selected candidate.
The North Dakota State University Foundation is a separate 501(c)(3) organization which exists to maximize advocacy and philanthropy to support NDSU. We connect people who are passionate about NDSU and improving the lives and outcomes of North Dakotans and the world. We are an organization of fifty-five team members, soon to be sixty. If you enjoy non-profit work, are inspired by our mission, love to collaborate with your colleagues, and are ambitious to develop as a professional, we welcome you to apply.
Our team members enjoy a highly competitive total compensation package including company paid health insurance, a defined contribution account funded at 9.5%, generous paid time off, abundant professional development opportunities, plus elective dental and vision plans.
This position is eligible for hybrid work following a period of onboarding.
This position will remain open until filled. To be considered, applicants must apply online through the NDSU Foundation employment site (https://www.ndsufoundation.com/employment) and include a cover letter and resume.
Position Summary:
This Asst. Director of Events and Programs will plan, manage, and execute NDSU Foundation’s outreach events and activities. They will provide meeting and event planning support services to university, private, and corporate partners. This position works collaboratively with other Foundation staff and campus faculty/staff to develop and implement events, which support Foundation objectives. The AD will collaborate with the development team to build strategic engagement opportunities to create meaningful community and connection for alumni and friends of NDSU and the NDSU Foundation. Schedule includes travel as well as evening and weekend assignments.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Event Management
Work cooperatively with internal and external clients to plan and execute alumni and donor experiences
Procure and negotiate contracts for high-quality meetings and events, including but not limited to: space, guest room accommodations, ground transportation, décor, entertainment, food beverage, audio visual equipment
Provide logistical support for all aspects of meetings and events (i.e. physical setup/layout, menu planning shuttle service, parking, etc.)
Communicate and manage event volunteer committees regarding meetings, agenda items, setting and reaching committee goals and providing event updates.
Create and monitor event and meeting planning timelines and work collaboratively to align with associated project timelines
Work collaboratively with Foundation staff to create an engaging and meaningful program
Manage panelists, speakers, sponsors and other special guests related to the event program
Provide on-site support for meetings and events which may include overnight/weekend travel to and from events
Manage and maintain equipment and materials for events/activities
Assist with establishing the event registration processes
Create curated event invite lists with input from senior leadership
Develop dynamic and creative marketing strategies and materials in collaboration with the communication team to enhance events and activities
Manage specific event software to execute various events (i.e. Greater Giving)
Constituent Relations
Provide exceptional customer service to internal and external clients
Demonstrate a cooperative and courteous manner toward staff, constituents, alumni, families, and visitors, in person, by phone and electronically
Independently manage a wide variety of inquiries from internal and external constituents
Schedule and oversee staff, alumni, student and volunteers for event support
Attend Foundation sponsored activities/events to ensure a high-quality participant experience
Assist and collaborate with NDSU partners on college/department activities and events
Administration
Utilize established tools and processes to initiate events and track planning steps
Maintain knowledge of registration and database tools to support event activities and assist with entry as needed
Document event planning activity and execution outcomes
Provide and work within meeting and event budgets
Maintain and report on revenue and expense information
Draft routine correspondence and memoranda
Suggest areas for process improvement and assist in making improvements when appropriate
Demonstrate an understanding of and effectively utilize organizational administrative policies and procedures
Support a service-oriented atmosphere in accordance with the Foundation’s mission, values and philosophy
Adhere to policies and procedures
Maintain strict confidence of non-public Foundation information
Respond professionally, promptly, and appropriately to requests and concerns
Develop and maintain own competence; seek opportunities for continued learning and professional development
Assist with prudent management of Foundation resources
Coordinate regional and community engagement
Serve as a liaison to the members of our community that live locally as well as across the country
Coordinate with the development team to build meaningful, strategic and lasting communities within our region and beyond to continue forging new and existing partnership and ongoing engagement opportunities
Work closely with alumni chapter leadership to formalize and support their efforts to create community where they are located and assist in their ongoing engagement on campus also
Research and experiment with new events and programs in our major markets (ND, MN, FL, AZ, TX, CO, CA)
Other duties as assigned
Essential Functions:
Set priorities, develop a work schedule, monitor progress towards goals, and track details/data/information/activities.
Efficiently operate a personal computer and associated software (Outlook, Word, Excel, etc.)
Maintain files accurately, in paper and in software programs
Maintain records and prepare reports
Handle multiple tasks simultaneously
Plan, prioritize and meet deadlines
Establish and maintain positive working relationships with others both internally and externally to achieve the goals of the organization.
Interact in an effective and appropriate manner with diverse populations, internal staff, University community and the public
Work cooperatively and effectively with others to resolve problems and make decisions that enhance organizational effectiveness.
Maintain confidentiality of records and information
Display excellent judgment and decision making
Follow through on projects with little supervision
Identify and address problems
Speak, listen, and write in a clear, thorough, and timely manner using appropriate and effective communication tools and techniques.
Maintain prompt and reliable attendance
Demonstrate support of the Foundation’s mission and beliefs
Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in a related field
1+ years of experience in event planning
Exceptional customer service skills
Demonstrated experience collaborating and communicating with a diverse population
Proven ability to lead and direct volunteers and peers
Excellent time management, organizational skills and ability to handle multiple projects and deadlines
Excellent attention to detail and quality
Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
Ability to travel and work a flexible schedule dependent upon events/activities
Demonstrated proficiency with technology to include Microsoft Office and audio-visual equipment
Preferred Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in marketing or hospitality management
CPR/First Aid certification
Event planning certification
Experience with Raiser’s Edge, customer relationship management software, event management software, or similar systems
Physical and Mental Demands:
Ability to safely lift objects up to 40 lbs.; climb stairs and manage long periods of standing and physical movement. Ability to set tables and chairs for events. Must have familiarity with audio-visual equipment. Ability to drive and secure supplies and meet with clients.
The position description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of job responsibilities, duties, and requirements: but to describe the standard level of work being performed. Employees may be required to perform other duties as assigned or as required by the needs of the business. The NDSU Foundation reserves the right to add or change the duties of the position at any time.
The NDSU Foundation does not discriminate on the basis of age, color, gender expression/identity, genetic information, marital status, national origin, physical or mental disability, pregnancy, public assistance status, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, status as a U.S. veteran, or participation in lawful activity off the employer's premises, as applicable.
Seniority level
Entry level
Employment type
Full-time
Job function
Management and Manufacturing
Industries
Fundraising
Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at NDSU Foundation by 2x