DIRECTOR, ADVANCEMENT EVENTS

Position Summary

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. This role 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.

Reports to: Senior Executive Director of Alumni Engagement

Collaborates with: AVP for Development, Director of Donor Relations, Institutional Events units, Engagement Operations Associate, Associate Director of Engagement, Advancement Communications, and campus partners

Key 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.

Qualifications:

• 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.

Work Environment:

Office-based with regular collaboration across campus. Position requires periodic travel and frequent evening and weekend work to support events.

Application Instructions:

Interested applicants must apply online and attach a resume, cover letter, and list of three professional references. Questions about online applications should be directed to the Office of Human Resources at (607) 274-8000 or humanresources@ithaca.edu.

Ithaca College is committed to building a diverse academic community and encourages members of underrepresented groups to apply. Experience that contributes to the diversity of the college is appreciated.

Visa sponsorship is not provided for this position.

Hiring Range: $75,000-$80,000, commensurate with qualifications and experience.