Assistant Director of Events

Alumni and Family Engagement

Salary

College Advancement
Full-Time, Exempt, Salaried, Administrative Staff Appointment

Colby is seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented assistant director of events to be a part of the team that will be conceptualizing and executing high-impact and strategic alumni, donor, prospect, and family programming on campus, in key geographic locations, and virtually. This role reports to the director of events. The assistant director has both event management and event marketing experience. A visible representative of the College, the assistant director has a deep appreciation for the liberal arts college experience and a strong personal commitment to Colby’s core values. We encourage inquiries from candidates who will contribute to the diversity of our College, including its cultural and ethnic diversity.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Coordinate and conceptualize a range of events throughout the course of the year in collaboration with Colby staff, faculty, frontline fundraisers, and alumni volunteers
• Play a key role in the planning of Homecoming and Reunion; partner with the Office of Campus Events, Facilities Services, and the Department of Athletics throughout the planning process
• Develop a project plan for each event that includes details about strategic objectives, target audience, timeline, deliverables list, and budget
• Conduct pre-event trainings with all divisional staff involved in events as needed to ensure role clarity and alignment of expectations
• Contribute to event promotion and marketing in collaboration with colleagues on the communications and engagement team, leveraging digital tools and platforms, including web and social media management
• Prepare briefing materials and talking points for College and volunteer leadership
• Develop systematic partnerships with staff and faculty across campus, including, but not limited to DavisConnects, Department of Athletics, Department of Recreation Services, Colby Museum of Art, Office of Campus Life, Office of Admissions and Financial Aid, and other campus units
• Coordinate reviews of event planning materials and marketing collateral with stakeholders
• Partner with the director of events and other colleagues to maintain and proactively manage the event calendar; lead meetings about the events calendar as required; and support all calendar planning as necessary
• Provide support to presidential-level and donor events as requested
• Routinely gather and analyze data in order to assess program effectiveness at increasing alumni engagement and commitment
• Perform additional duties as assigned; duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree or the equivalent in education and experience
• Minimum 1-3 years of event and/or program management experience
• Superior written and oral communication skills required including the ability to write in multiple styles/voices and proactively edit as necessary
• Flexibility, excellent attention to detail, initiative, and a results-driven philosophy with the ability to problem-solve required
• Unflappable in the face of multiple challenges, highly motivated, disciplined work ethic, a competitive spirit, a creative approach, and a proven ability to lead
• Excellent organizational skills including experience independently overseeing complex projects and programs
• Appreciation of Colby’s mission and the ability to effectively communicate it
• Proficiency with fundraising/alumni relations databases and technology
• Experience with volunteer management and engagement
• Discretion and good judgment with confidential information
• An entrepreneurial spirit and positive attitude
• Ability to work collaboratively as a member of a diverse community and make an impact in a complex, fast-paced, and team-oriented environment
• Willingness and ability to work outside normal working hours
• Must be willing to travel; valid driver’s license required and must meet the College’s Fleet Safety Policy requirements

KEY RELATIONSHIPS:

Reporting to the director of events, the assistant director of events will have direct contact with the entire communications and engagement team as well as colleagues across the division. The position also interacts regularly with alumni, parents, key faculty members, and will likely interact with trustees and senior administration including the president.

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

General open office and campus environment. Position involves sitting, although frequent movement is necessary. Computer usage involving repetitive hand/wrist motion is also necessary. Ability to move around campus and interact with faculty, staff, students, alumni, and external constituencies regularly is crucial. Travel and work outside of normal business hours are required.

TO APPLY:

Interested candidates should apply electronically by clicking the "Apply" button on the Colby Careers website. Please submit a letter of interest including salary requirements, resume, and the contact information of three professional references. Materials should be addressed to:

Assistant Director of Events - Search Committee
Office of Human Resources
Colby College
5500 Mayflower Hill
Waterville, ME  04901-8855