As a member of the events team, the assistant/associate director is responsible for designing and executing impactful events that strengthen donor relationships and advance the university’s philanthropic mission. This position oversees a wide range of local, regional, and national events – including cultivation and stewardship activities, facility dedications, major gift announcements, and presidential or college-specific donor engagements. Success in this role requires critical thinking, collaboration across campus and community partners, accountability, and flexibility to travel and work evenings or weekends, all in service of reminding donors and prospects that investing in Iowa State University is a valuable and lasting commitment.
Based on qualifications and experience, a selected candidate may hold one of these job titles: Assistant Director of Events or Associate Director of Events.
Core Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
- Plan, direct, and execute aspects of assigned in-person events with varying levels of complexity.
- Manage online registrations – create, route, and edit registration page, electronic invitations, e-reminders, use event management and communication software, and print invitations based on need.
- Serve as a partner/liaison to designated colleges/units to support relationship building and overall proactive planning.
- Management of vendor relationships throughout the Ames and surrounding communities.
- Assist with returning phone calls and emails, answering questions from a variety of sources, locating/sending information to others, and helping with general requests. Update RSVPs from calls, emails, and correspondence.
- Demonstrates fiscal responsibility with proposals and planning events.
- Position includes frequent participation in evening and weekend work-related activities.
Qualifications
Education & Work Experience
- Bachelor’s degree or appropriate related years of experience.
- 2+ years of professional experience related to employment area.
Desired Skills & Experience
- Practical and applicable knowledge of how to organize an event including an understanding of room layout, vendor management, decor, and overall event logistics.
- Food service knowledge and applicable work history including understanding fine dining service, food/beverage service, and the catering process.
- Proficiency with virtual event platforms (e.g., Zoom and Zoom Webinar)
- Creative problem solver with the ability to work with multiple teams, understanding audience development, and strong marketing and promotion skills.
- Experience with Workfront, Salesforce and Salesforce apps including Ascend, Blackthorn, and Marketing Cloud is a plus.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Must be adaptable, flexible, and self-directed.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and ability to learn new software.
- Must be able to handle several activities simultaneously with attention to detail and adherence to deadlines and accuracy.
- Must adhere to strict confidentiality standards.
- Creativity, patience, a sense of humor and a belief in our organizational mission of: Aligning donor passion and generosity to advance Iowa State University’s land grant ideals.
Travel: Occasional travel required
FLSA Status: Exempt
Location: Ames, IA; primarily in office
For additional information, visit the following pages: