Alumni Event Specialist

  • Kitchener
  • Conestoga College
Requisition Details Support Staff Full-time New Position (First consideration for Support Staff and Academic positions will be given to internal applicants in accordance with the respective Collective Agreements) The Alumni Event Specialist will be responsible for programming for an alumni community of 200,000. With a focus on increasing alumni engagement, this role will contribute to in person and virtual programming that strengthens connections and creates shared experiences for alumni, Schools and departments, and the college. The incumbent will conceptualize programming and collaborate with others to develop timely and relevant events for specific audiences ranging in size. The role requires the ability to make thoughtful connections between Schools/departments, programs, and stakeholders, as well as a strong background in event management from concept through evaluation. It is anticipated that this position will meet the needs of the department through a hybrid work arrangement consisting of up to 3 days on-site per week and 2 days remote. Responsibilities: Research, plan, develop, implement and review trends in event management to increase alumni engagement In consultation with team members and school partners, gather information about audience, objectives, budget and preferences Coordinate all event logistics, such as décor, entertainment and food and beverages In conjunction with the Manager, create event plans that align with strategic direction Schedule activities for team members and volunteers to follow as part of event plans Draft written communications for multiple audiences (invitees, college leadership etc), for email, Social Media channels and other media Communicate with vendors and service providers before, during and after the event. Handle problems that arise at all stages of the event plan, and ensure Manager is aware of any issues Act as the primary point person during college events, community partner events, and for alumni reunion activities Ensure all activities comply with policies, procedures and legislation. Compile, summarize and collate data, feedback and other media from activities, events, reunions, etc. in the form of reports following each event Access confidential information regarding alumni profiles for the purpose of developing an understanding of general and specific alumni groups to inform the creation of proposals, communications, initiatives partnerships and updates alumni records on a timely basis Conduct research and documents best practices for events and programming, including current industry and/or post-secondary trends, applicable to the college environment Contribute to development of standard processes and guidelines around alumni engagement strategy and operations and assists with documentation Work with internal colleagues to ensure legal and legislated standards are upheld (e.g., Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA)) Assist with the maintenance of the department CRM, social media, and other platforms that support alumni engagement efforts and activities. Support designated team members to create and implement communications plans for projects and events. Contribute to other efforts to enhance communication and engagement with alumni, including the alumni newsletter, documentation (ex. PowerPoint), programming, speeches, media releases, and supports special projects (in person and online) as required Qualifications: Three-year diploma/degree in Humanities, Business Administration, Communications, Public Relations, Hospitality Management, Marketing, or a related field is required Minimum of three years relevant experience with event and project coordination and management, preferably in an educational setting Certification in event management is an asset Excellent communication skills with the ability to communicate across cultures Strong administrative and organizational skills, as well as attention to detail Creative thinking skills to design timely, relevant, engaging events for diverse audiences Ability to work under pressure while balancing competing priorities in a changing environment High degree of tact, discretion, and professionalism working independently and part of a team Demonstrated interest in community development through volunteering, course work, etc.