Associate Director of Events

About the position

Wichita State University Foundation and Alumni Engagement (WSUFAE) is looking to hire a highly organized, relationship-driven event professional who thrives in a fast-paced, mission-focused environment and takes pride in delivering exceptional, high-visibility experiences. The Associate Director of Events will play a key role in designing and executing strategic donor and some alumni events that strengthen relationships and advance philanthropic goals. Working closely with development, marketing, decision sciences, alumni relations, and senior leadership, this position leads event planning from concept through execution, managing logistics, budgets, vendors, and post-event reporting with precision and care. Your efforts will directly support the mission and vision of Wichita State University, helping to shape the future of education and innovation. With a team of more than 50 dedicated individuals working to support fundraising and donor and alumni relationships, the WSUFAE is proud to champion the continued growth of Wichita State University. With over \$400 million in managed assets and thousands of alumni spread around the world, it is an exciting time to be a part of advancing Shocker Nation.

Responsibilities

Event Strategy & Planning Lead the planning and execution of donor events in collaboration with the Sr. Director of Donor Experience.Develop comprehensive event briefs outlining objectives, target audiences, messaging, and logistical needs to ensure alignment across teams.Identify opportunities to enhance event processes and elevate the donor experience.Event Executive and Logistics Coordinate all event logistics including venue selection, vendor management, catering, audiovisual needs, décor, timelines, and run-of show development to ensure seamless execution and high-quality donor experience.Represent WSUFAE and Wichita State University professionally at all events.Support select alumni-focused events aligned with the broader organizational goals, as needed.Budget & Vendor Management Manage event budgets by tracking expenses, processing contracts, reconciling invoices, and ensuring events remain within approved budget.Work with external vendors to negotiate services and ensure contractual obligations are met.Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement Collaborate with development officers to ensure events align with donor cultivation, stewardship, and recognition strategies.Partner with marketing and communications, decisions sciences, and other WSUFAE teams on event-related communications, including invitations, signage, invite lists, RSVP tracking, and post-event follow-up.Maintain clear and consistent communication with the Sr. Director of Donor Experience regarding event status, timelines, and outcomes.Identify opportunities for improvement in processes and event experiences.Coordinate and lead planning meetings with internal stakeholders and external partners to confirm event details, roles, and expectations.Data Reporting & Continuous Improvement Complete post-event summaries documenting attendance, engagement metrics, survey results, and final budget reconciliation.Utilize databases and tracking tools to support accurate reporting and informed decision-making.Asses event outcomes and recommend improvements to enhance donor engagement and operational efficiency.Perform other duties as assignedRequirements

Bachelor’s degreeMinimum of three years of event planning or equivalent experienceExperience with high-caliber, high visibility events preferredThe ability to handle multiple tasks with organization and accuracyExperience working with databasesThe flexibility to work early mornings, late evenings and occasional weekendsHighly organized and detail orientedCollaborative, team-oriented attitudeExcellent oral and written communication skillsAbility to interact effectively with a broad range of audiencesEnthusiasm, commitment to excellence, self-motivation, professional demeanorProficiency in Microsoft Office products (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and internet researchAbility to maintain confidentiality of information, records and materialsCommitment to the WSU Foundation core values of integrity, service, collaboration and excellenceFrequent and sudden movements from sitting, standing, bending, reaching, and walking.Frequent standing or sitting for prolonged periodsOccasional exposure to large crowds, loud noises, and/or bright and/or flashing lightsOccasional climbing of stairsOccasional lifting up to 20 poundsOccasional lifting up to 50 poundsOccasional exposure to outdoors and hot and inclement weatherFrequent interruptions throughout the dayNice-to-haves

Knowledge of Wichita State University and commitment to higher educationBenefits

WSUFAE offers outstanding benefits including medical/dental/vision (100% premium paid for employee/50% for dependents), term life insurance, tuition reimbursement, 8.5% company matching on retirement accounts after one year, and more.