Assistant Director of Special Events
Location: Davidson, NC, United States · Reference: 958
The Assistant 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 fundraising milestones, donor stewardship and
campus arts and media partnerships. From signature student and alumni
traditions to high-level advisory board meetings, the Assistant Director is
responsible for shaping each experience from concept through
completion—ensuring every detail supports meaningful connection and reflects
the college's values. This is an individual contributor role with no direct
reports.
Core Responsibilities
Event Planning, Production & Onsite Execution
Plan and execute College Relations events, including (but not limited
to):
The Fund for Davidson's annual #AllinforDavidson and Senior Mug Night
Scholarship dinners in partnership with Donor Relations
Key family events during Orientation and Commencement
Board meetings for Davidson Arts and Creative Engagement, Art Collection Advisory Committee, and WDAV Classic Public Radio.
Annual Friends of the Arts reception
Other events as needed
Provide event support for programs led by other team members, particularly
during peak seasons (Orientation, Wildcat Weekend, Commencement, Reunion
Weekend).
Vendor/Campus Partnerships
Build strong working partnerships with campus services, other departments
and external vendors to coordinate event needs.
Serve as the primary liaison with host offices throughout the planning
process for assigned events.
Manage vendor communication, scheduling and logistics to ensure smooth
execution.
Budgeting, Registration & Event Communications
Build, manage and track event expenses and revenue to align with approved
event budgets.
Build and manage online event registration forms within the college
database.
Own and manage the full lifecycle of event communications.
Projects & Professional Development
Contribute to a culture of continuous improvement and development through
intentional goal setting, and the active pursuit of professional
development
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.
1-2 years of event management experience
Exceptional project management and time management skills; highly
organized, detail-oriented and accountable in a fast paced environment.
Ability to manage high-pressure, last-minute or urgent requests with
professionalism and calm.
Strong critical thinking skills and a solution-oriented approach to
challenges.
Strong interpersonal skills and excellent internal and external customer
service.
Commitment to delivering a high-quality experience for event attendees.
Willingness to learn Davidson College systems and tools including
Blackbaud, Google Workspace and Ad Astra (training provided).
Ability to lift 20+ pounds, move boxes and event supplies, travel between
campus locations (on foot or via golf cart) and work outdoors in varied
weather conditions.
Valid driver's license required.
Position requires evening and weekend work to execute events as scheduled.
Information about how to submit an application can be found at
https: // employment.davidson.edu.