Donor Events Strategist & Engagement Lead

University of North Carolina School of the Arts; Winston-Salem (NC); On-site; USD 50,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

University of North Carolina School of the Arts is seeking an Advancement Special Events Manager to design and execute donor events, including receptions, luncheons, fundraisers, and hybrid formats.

The role partners with the Alumni Office and various campus departments to enhance fundraising outcomes, manage budgets, and deliver strategic event experiences aligned with the university’s mission.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree and one year of related experience required.
• All degrees must be from accredited institutions.
• Preferred: 3–5 years of relevant experience.

Responsibilities

• Design, manage and execute approximately 40 donor events per academic year.
• Ensure events advance UNCSA's brand and have measurable success.
• Lead campaign events and oversee strategy, planning, and outcomes.
• Develop event strategies with sponsorships and engagement initiatives.
• Collaborate with gift officers on invitation lists.
• Develop event budgets and reconcile accounts.
• Draft event communications and remarks.
• Partner with Strategic Communications on marketing/PR plans.

Skills

Excellent communication

Project management

Budget preparation and management

Contract negotiation

Virtual and hybrid event experience

Experience with Raiser's Edge

Experience with Raiser's Edge NXT

Travel willingness

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

Raiser's Edge

Raiser's Edge NXT

Job description

University of North Carolina School of the Arts is seeking an Advancement Special Events Manager to design and execute donor events, including receptions, luncheons, fundraisers, and hybrid formats.

The role partners with the Alumni Office and various campus departments to enhance fundraising outcomes, manage budgets, and deliver strategic event experiences aligned with the university’s mission.