Hybrid Executive Director, Donor Events & VIP Experiences

Vanderbilt University; Nashville (TN); Hybrid; USD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Vanderbilt University is seeking an Executive Director for Events to lead enterprise-level donor, prospect, and VIP events, delivering exceptional hospitality and a unified guest experience.

You will head a team within the DAR and partner with university stakeholders to elevate engagement, strengthen alumni relations, and support fundraising initiatives through strategic event design and robust operating standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) required.
• Master’s degree preferred in a relevant field (e.g., higher education administration, communications, hospitality, nonprofit leadership, business).
• 10 years of experience, or the equivalent, is necessary.
• 10+ years progressively responsible leadership in event planning, donor relations, hospitality.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and execution of DAR event strategy and operating model across teams.
• Oversee a portfolio of events with budget oversight and vendor management.
• Create and maintain templates, checklists, and process guides for consistent guest experiences.
• Collaborate with Alumni and Parent Engagement and university partners to foster collaboration and training.
• Design and execute top donor and prospect events with a focus on personalized hospitality.
• Provide executive oversight for budgets and cost controls while ensuring adherence to university standards.
• Drive data-driven communications and continuous improvement of operating standards.
• Lead change and standardization of operations across the events portfolio.

Skills

Budgeting

Conferences Services

Crisis Management

Event Catering

Event Management

Event Marketing

Event Planning

Program Evaluation

Public Relations

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Master’s degree

Job description

Vanderbilt University is seeking an Executive Director for Events to lead enterprise-level donor, prospect, and VIP events, delivering exceptional hospitality and a unified guest experience.

You will head a team within the DAR and partner with university stakeholders to elevate engagement, strengthen alumni relations, and support fundraising initiatives through strategic event design and robust operating standards.