Associate Director of Special Events

Job Description

The Associate Director of Special Events connects a variety of constituents to Davidson College through thoughtfully designed, high-impact events. This position leads the planning and execution of a diverse portfolio of programs, with a particular focus on partnerships with the Davidson Athletic Fund and the Office of Alumni and Family Engagement. From intimate, relationship-building dinners to complex, multi-day signature events, the Associate Director shapes each experience from concept through completion ensuring every detail supports meaningful connection and reflects the college's values and priorities.

Core Responsibilities Event Portfolio

• Own the full lifecycle of a diverse portfolio of in-person events, serving as a strategic partner with "host offices" in planning, communicating about and executing events including but not limited to:
  • Annual Dr. Tom Scott Memorial Golf Tournament
  • Biennial Athletics Hall of Fame Induction
  • Presidential hospitality at home football games
  • Annual football stakeholders event
  • Travel for alumni events surrounding the Men's and Women's A10 basketball tournaments
  • Production of the annual Red & Black Alumni Tailgate in partnership with Alumni & Family Engagement
  • 2-3 affinity-based reunion events annually
  • Annual affinity-based senior celebration ceremonies hosted by the Davidson Black Alumni Network, Davidson LGBTQIA Alumni Network, Latinx Alumni Network at Davidson and the Davidson Asian South Asian Pacific Islander Alumni Network.
  • Other affinity-based events as scheduled
• Build, manage and meticulously track complex revenue and expense budgets, maximizing guest experience within established budget parameters

Campus Partnerships

• Cultivate and maintain strong, productive relationships with vital internal partners (Tech Services, Campus Police, Catering, Physical Plant) and external vendors (florists, linen rental providers, specialized caterers).
• Serve as the primary liaison between the Special Events and Event Services Department and the Davidson Athletic Fund, strengthening collaboration, troubleshooting processes and ensuring smooth cross-team execution.

Team Leadership & Professional Development

• Contribute to a culture of continuous improvement and development through intentional goal setting, and the active pursuit of professional development.
• Provide steady leadership during high-pressure, fast-paced, high-stakes periods in the event cycle, partnering with the Director of Special Events to guide the team calmly and effectively.

Communications, Data & Event Technology

• Build and manage online event registration forms and monitor data integrity within the college's primary database system (Blackbaud).
• Own and manage the full lifecycle of event communications.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.
• 3-5 years of event management experience , with a proven track record in high-touch hospitality, executive-level events or VIP guest relations.
• Exceptional organizational and time-management skills; a results-driven mindset with the ability to handle high-pressure, last-minute and urgent requests.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, with the ability to provide clear, professional briefings to college leadership.
• Ability to problem-solve independently and maintain composure in high-stress situations, making decisions that align with the best interests of Davidson and its guests.
• Ability to lift 20+ pounds, move event supplies, travel across campus on foot or by golf cart, and work outdoors in various weather conditions.
• Valid driver's license required.
• Flexibility and willingness to work a non-traditional schedule, including frequent evenings and occasional weekends.

About Us

Davidson is a highly selective, nationally ranked, residential liberal arts college located in Davidson, North Carolina, near Charlotte. We seek to hire talented faculty and staff who are committed to achieving excellence within an inclusive community where diverse backgrounds and perspectives are valued.