Development Events Specialist

Development Events SpecialistUniversity of Louisiana at Lafayette FoundationOffice of Development I Donor RelationsPosition SummaryThe Development Events Specialist plays a key role in cultivating and stewarding relationships with alumni, volunteers, and institutional donors through strategically planned events. This position supports the planning, implementation, and on-site execution of high-profile, donor-focused events that showcase the impact of philanthropy and foster meaningful connections between donors and the university.The Donor Relations team is responsible for ensuring that all central donor relations practices are executed at the highest quality to achieve the donor relations program's goal: to retain current donors, foster long-term philanthropy, and deepen connection and engagement with our institution.The Development Events Specialist will report to the Managing Director of Donor Relations.Key ResponsibilitiesEvent Planning & ExecutionAssist in the development, implementation, and oversight of strategic institutional and philanthropic events that align with fundraising strategies and university priorities.Manage logistics for assigned events, including venue selection, vendor coordination (including contract reviews), catering, decor, audio visual, run of show, and donor gifts (among other duties).Support the Managing Director in executing high-profile events by preparing materials, timelines, staffing plans, and coordinating on-site operations.On an annual basis, independently manage 1-2 large scale events and 5-10 medium sized events within the team's broader portfolio, from initial concept through post-event follow-up.Maintain event documentation, timelines, checklists, and planning materials to ensure consistency and quality across the event portfolio.Track RSVPs and manage registration processes; utilize CRM and event technology tools to streamline operations and reporting.Budget & AdministrationTrack event budgets, process vendor payments, and ensure fiscal responsibility.Oversee and maintain inventory for all event supplies.Perform administrative duties as assigned, including mail merges, name badges, and vendor coordination.Collaboration & CommunicationsWork closely with Development Communications to ensure event messaging reflects the university's mission and brand identity, including invitations, run-of-show documents, registration pages, and event communications to internal partners as well as donors.Develop guest lists and invitation strategies in partnership with Advancement Operations and Development Staff.Serve as a primary liaison to campus partners to coordinate participation and campus resources, including the President's Office, Foundation leadership, Academic Colleges, Facilities, and Transportation (among others).Standards, Technology & Continuous ImprovementImplement event standards, protocols, and best practices while contributing to continuous improvement and innovation across the event portfolio.Create and maintain standard operating procedures and planning documents to ensure long-term sustainability and institutional knowledge.Use event technology, software, and planning tools - including CRM databases, cloud-based document storage (such as SharePoint), and project management systems - to streamline operations and reporting.Participate in post-event evaluations and provide recommendations to inform future planning.Stay current with best practices in higher education donor engagement and event strategy.Additional duties as assigned.QualificationsRequiredAssociate's or Bachelor's degree requiredDemonstrated experience in event planning and logistics, preferably in a higher education, nonprofit, or advancement settings.Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and Adobe.Experience managing databases and using fundraising or CRM software.Excellent written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills.Outstanding attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.Ability to maintain a high level of confidentiality when working with sensitive donor and institutional information.Clear sense of ownership, follow-through, and orientation toward results.Understanding and sincere commitment to customer service and donor stewardship.Ability to lift 50 lbs.PreferredFamiliarity with donor relations principles and major gifts fundraising cycles.Experience coordinating with senior institutional leadership or board-level stakeholders.Background working in a university advancement or foundation environment.Core CompetenciesMission Alignment - Ensures all events reflect the University's and Foundation's mission, values, and high standards for donor engagement.Attention to Detail - Manages complex logistics with precision and strategy alignment; anticipates and resolves issues before they affect the event experience.Collaborative - Works effectively across departments and with external vendors to deliver cohesive, strategically aligned events.Donor-Centered Mindset - Understands that events are strategic cultivation and stewardship tools, not just logistical exercises.Adaptability - Stays focused and solutions-oriented when priorities shift or day-of challenges arise.Follow-Through- Communicates proactively, meets commitments, and closes every loopInterested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter to .

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