Director, Anchor Events

The Director of Anchor Events drives strategy, logistics and communications for high-impact events and series produced by Alumni Engagement and Annual Giving (AE/AG). These events vary in complexity and scope though the intent is to create a consistent experience for guests of all AE/AG events. 

Event programming plays an integral role in the connection of our vibrant, diverse communities. The Director will work collaboratively within a cross-functional team environment on event strategy, development, planning, communication and evaluation of events to ensure high-impact experiences that result in progressive engagement and philanthropic opportunities for alumni, parents, students, and friends of the global Vanderbilt network. 

Events in this portfolio range in format and size and include regional programming, on-campus events and virtual and hybrid programs. The Director of Anchor Events collaborates with DAR and university partners to align strategies and execution tactics to drive impact for university priorities, including admissions yield, community connection, lifelong learning, and constituent involvement through engagement and philanthropy. 

About the Work Unit:

The Department of Development and Alumni Relations (DAR) assists Vanderbilt University in securing the resources, both human and financial, that are required to achieve its mission and goals.  The Department is responsible for the identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of individuals and organizations whose charitable objectives are consistent with those of Vanderbilt University’s teaching and research programs.  You can find more information at https://www.vanderbilt.edu/dar/

Key Functions and Expected Performance:

Serves as strategy partner with AEAG teams to ensure cohesive and strategic event planning and coordination. Directly manages a team of up to three FTEs who execute on strategy, planning, communication and logistics support to relevant areas. Up to two additional temporary team members join May – August

Oversees event communications and collateral including emails, web presence and registration. 

The Director of Anchor Events must be able to manage multiple projects effectively and efficiently, all while ensuring that key goals and deadlines are met. The Director must be skilled in the use of all Office products, and well versed in digital tools (e.g., Zoom/Teams/YouTube). Experience with project management and client management tools are a must. Experience in Salesforce is a plus. 

Develops event budgets and provides budgetary oversight to team and partners, and trains those responsible on financial processes. 

Works in close coordination with team and DAR partners to move data to and capture within the department’s CRM; develops and drives relevant reporting.

Delivers best-in-class event experiences (face-to-face, virtual, and hybrid) through a constituent-oriented mindset. Continuously evaluates events, utilizing data to inform decision-making and adopts technology to elevate experiences. 

Serves in a consultative capacity for additional partner events – sharing best practices, developing guidelines and administrative support, where requested. 

Engages in close partnership with Development and Alumni Relations (DAR), Marketing and Communications, and other key university partners. Serves as representative in appropriate vendor relationship groups. 

In addition to being a strong program manager, the Director must possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Further, the Director should have the ability to use sound judgement in all situations. Demonstrated experience in event, project management and customer service is required. Experience in higher education is preferred. The Director must be able to travel domestically and internationally, perform physical labor and work extended hours as needed.

Work Environment:

This position will be hybrid located in the Nashville area.  The expectation will be 1 day in the office per week or more depending on business needs.

Supervisory Relationships:

This position supervises three FTEs and up to two temporary team members (May-Aug).

This position reports administratively and functionally to the Executive Director, Alumni Engagement. 

Education and Certifications:

• Bachelor’s degree, or the equivalent, is necessary 

Experience and Skills:

• Five or more years of progressive experience, or the equivalent, is necessary.
• Ability to work independently, take initiative, manage multiple projects simultaneously, meet deadlines, and adapt to evolving priorities.