Working/Functional Title
Community Events Coordinator
Position Summary
BASIC FUNCTION AND RESPONSIBILITIES
As a key member of the University Advancement (UA) Events Team, the Advancement Events Community Events Coordinator is responsible for applying experiential event and marketing best practices to help expand MSU’s alumni and donor reach through partnerships with 80+ alumni communities. This role requires a team player who communicates openly, collaborates effectively, and demonstrates trust in teammates’ abilities to complete their work. Additionally, the candidate should be open to new and innovative ideas, coachable, and committed to contributing to a healthy team environment.
CHARACTERISTIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Volunteer Management:
• Builds trust with regional volunteers and alumni relations staff to form mutually beneficial relationships that support MSU’s mission.
• Develops, promotes, and executes an annual grant-making program that provides financial support for alumni-community events in alignment with MSU’s fundraising priorities.
• Advises regional volunteers on event strategy to increase attendance, manage expenses, and increase guest satisfaction.
• Secures regional event guest data for inclusion in University Advancement’s customer relations management system.
• Conducts post-event evaluations with regional volunteers to assess success and identify opportunities for continual improvement.
Marketing and Communications:
• Develops copy, graphics, and marketing materials in alignment with MSU brand standards to support volunteer-led alumni-community events.
• Coordinates with regional volunteers and internal team members to promote alumni-community events through MSU-managed channels.
• Coordinates with University administrators, faculty, and internal team members to update on progress toward event objectives.
• Provides support to the Advancement Events communications team as needed.
Event Management:
• Works collaboratively to advise on engaging guest experiences.
• Advises volunteers on working with external contractors and vendors involved in event production.
• Provides on-site support as needed during event programming.
• Assists in the development and execution of University Advancement events as needed.
Other:
• Collaborates with alumni and donor volunteers on committees engaged in initiatives on behalf of University Advancement.
• Maintains and enhances knowledge of computer and systems relevant to the planning and execution of University Advancement events.
• Contributes actively to creating a healthy work culture by fostering teamwork, open communication, and trust among team members.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED
Direction is received from the Advancement Events director.
SUPERVISION EXERCISED
None
IMPACT ON PROGRAMS – SERVICES – OPERATIONS
Decisions made in the planning and execution of MSU-related events can significantly influence the University’s reputation and standing among donors, alumni, and external communities. Errors in judgment may have adverse effects on the University’s future resources and overall integrity.
Unit Specific Education/Experience/Skills
Knowledge equivalent to that which would normally be acquired in a four year college degree in Public Relations, Communications, Business or in an area related to the work being performed; one to three years of related and progressively more responsible and expansive work experience in a field related to the position including planning and managing special events; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. May require experience in word processing, database, spreadsheet, desktop publishing and/or presentation software. Position may require software specific to the operational activities of the employing unit. This position may require special licensing or certification in the field related to the area of employment.
Desired Qualifications
- Equivalent knowledge typically obtained through a four-year degree program in business, hospitality business, marketing, or related fields, or a comparable combination of education and experience.
- One to three years of progressively responsible experience in planning, producing, and marketing nonprofit, institutional, and/or fundraising events, including contractor and vendor negotiations, budget development, and successfully managing volunteers.
- Strong attention to detail and ability to align events with overall fundraising and engagement goals in accordance with MSU’s mission.
- Proven track record of contributing toward the development of innovative solutions through effective collaboration.
- Proficiency in database and presentation software.
- Demonstrated proficiency in project management and event production.
- Demonstrated knowledge and use of Adobe Creative Cloud.
- Familiarity with CRM (Customer Relationship Management) systems.
- Exceptional customer service, written and verbal communication skills, with a commitment to continuous improvement.
- Possession of a valid driver’s license.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.
Required Application Materials
Resume and cover letter
Special Instructions
HOW TO APPLY
If you have any questions regarding this position, please contact Patricia Karam, Director of Recruitment, at karampat@msu.edu.
Screening of applicants will continue until the position is filled.
MSU is an affirmative action, equal-opportunity employer.
MSU is committed to achieving excellence through a diverse workforce and inclusive culture that encourages all people to reach their full potential. The University actively encourages applications and/or nominations of women, persons of color, veterans, and persons with disabilities.
Work Hours
8 am - 5 pm with some evenings and weekends
Website
Advancement.msu.edu
Remote Work Statement
MSU strives to provide a flexible work environment and this position has been designated as remote-friendly. Remote-friendly means some or all of the duties can be performed remotely as mutually agreed upon.
Bidding eligibility ends April 23, 2024 at 11:55 P.M.
