Associate Director of Special Events

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.