Development Associate, Events

Houston Symphony Society; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 50,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

Houston Symphony Society in Houston, TX seeks a Development Associate, Events to support major galas, donor cultivation, and event logistics.

Reporting to the Director of Special Events, you will coordinate openings, wine dinners, silent auctions, and post-event follow-ups, working with volunteers and staff to maximize fundraising outcomes.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.
• Experience with database, spreadsheet and desktop publishing using Microsoft Office, Tessitura, Wordfly and BidPal is desired.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills required.

Responsibilities

• Support planning and execution of annual galas, donor events and related activities.
• Coordinate pre- and post-donor cultivation activities.
• Manage inventory and communications related to events and silent auctions.
• Coordinate with Marketing on event communications and web content.
• Maintain event policies and donor recognition materials.
• Attend performances and donor events as required.

Skills

Verbal/written communication

Time management

Attention to detail

Adaptability

Creativity

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience

Tools

Tessitura

Wordfly

BidPal

Microsoft Office

Job description

Job Details: Esperson, Houston, TX 77002 | Position Type: Full Time | Salary Range: $50,000.00 - $55,000.00 | Job Category: Nonprofit - Social Services | Title: Development Associate, Events | Department: Development | Reports To: Director of Special Events | Status: Full-time, Exempt | Salary Range: $50,000 - $55,000

Position Overview

Reporting to the Director, Special Events, this position implements event management details for the Symphony’s major galas, general cultivation, and donor events. This position is a key member of the special events team. This position will interact with high-level volunteers to further the Symphony’s goals. A key expectation is the ability to work closely with volunteers in a dynamic environment.

Candidate Essential Functions

General Special Event Responsibilities

• Support the planning and implementation of the annual Opening Night Gala, Symphony Ball, Wine Dinner, and other events, with specific responsibilities assigned by the Director, Special Events.
• Coordinate and execute event related pre- and post-donor cultivation and stewardship activities, such as Kick-off and Underwriter events.
• Work with the Director, Special Events, to manage the solicitation process for special events, with emphasis on Tessitura data extraction and manipulation.
• Inventory management of the Houston Symphony wine storage locker.
• Manage external communication plan and design and serve as liaison with the Marketing team.
• Responsible for management and content for Houston Symphony webpages for all Special Events.
• Maintain and update Special Events Policies and Procedures.
• Maintain positive, professional and courteous relationships with all Special Event volunteers and vendors (both internal and external).

Silent Auction Responsibilities

Coordinate and support Silent Auction and Raffle activities for the Symphony Ball and Wine Dinner, including:

• Managing Symphony Ball and Wine Dinner Silent Auction committees and supplemental meetings or events which may take place in the evening.
• Soliciting auction items.
• Maintaining records of donation and auction finances.
• Managing inventory of auction items including transportation of auction items to and from events.
• Coordinating with auction vendors on behalf of the Houston Symphony.
• Creating the annual Auction Catalog.
• Identify and incorporate new avenues for revenue based on evolving silent auction trends.
• Managing correspondence and post-event acknowledgement letters to buyers and donors of Houston Symphony auction items.

Other Development Department duties and responsibilities

• Attends performances and donor events as required.
• Other duties as assigned by the Houston Symphony Society.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.
• Experience with database, spreadsheet and desktop publishing using Microsoft Office, Tessitura, Wordfly and BidPal software systems is desired.
• Professional, detail oriented, excellent time management skills.
• Excellent verbal/written communication skills.
• Ability to work successfully in a fast-paced environment while managing multiple projects.
• Creative, flexible, excellent communication skills.
• Ability to work evenings and weekends, including some holidays.
• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs.
• Candidate must supply reliable personal vehicle.