Director of Development-Events
Harrisburg University of Science and Technology
About Harrisburg University:
Harrisburg University offers an applied science and technology education for students who want
a degree and a dedicated pathway to a career. Our focus is to educate career-minded
individuals in the areas of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM careers), giving
them the tools to succeed, while helping to shape their communities, locally and beyond. Our
goal is to help stimulate economic growth in our region by establishing a STEM educated
workforce — a necessary resource in today's economy.
Mission:
The Harrisburg University of Science and Technology is an independent educational institution
offering innovative academic and research programs in science and technology that respond to
the needs of the region and support its economic development, provide educational opportunity
for traditionally underserved students in urban environments, and create evidence-based
national models.
Position Summary:
The Director of Development-Events will be responsible for coordinating, managing and
implementing multiple large fundraising core events to assist Harrisburg University in attaining
its financial goals.
The Director’s primary role will be to champion and coordinate the day-to-day operations of
Harrisburg University’s Development events and programs, including the assessment of
development operations, equipment, logistics and event needs.
The Director leads all aspects of these events and plays a significant role in planning, strategic
direction, implementation and execution of these events. This individual maintains primary
responsibility for providing leadership in planning, marketing, coordinating and implementing all
aspects of the Events as well initiating and organizing sponsorships and gifts as it relates to
these events.
The Director will work closely with the University’s Chief of Staff and Director of Advancement.
Additionally, this role will provide the opportunity to develop strong community relationships and
educate individuals on Harrisburg University’s mission and values.
Specific Responsibilities:
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Implement the comprehensive strategic plan for assigned fundraising events- including
the Harrisburg University Block Party, Annual Gala, Founders Reception, etc. - which
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includes organizational best practices, specific revenue and expense budget, timeline,
logistics, marketing & sponsorships for each event.
Oversee the annual Events planning and budget development, implementation &
execution.
Plan, coordinate and facilitate all Development Events
Ensure successful fundraising and sponsorship for all key development events.
Maintain relationships with key community sponsors year-round and insure involvement
in all relevant University activities.
Oversee the construction and implementation of cost effective and profitable special
event development programs.
Responsible for supervising and training volunteer staff in the delivery of Events.
Garner support, participation and collaboration of community leaders
Work collaboratively with staff to create, design and implement marketing and
promotional materials and then to market and promote through social, print, radio and
billboard media.
Act as point of contact for activities that promote the University and provide important
fundraising and development for the University
Secure funding through sponsorships and donations
Represent Harrisburg University at community events; meeting and networking with local
business and community leaders.
Managing the donor database and related records.
Other duties as may be assigned.
Qualifications:
Qualities and experiences that ideal candidates should display include:
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A bachelor’s degree and at least 5 years of progressive, successful experience in event
planning and development, budgeting, relationship management, marketing & branding.
Supervisory experience and the ability to build a cohesive event and/or program that
achieves development goals and objectives
Demonstrated management skills to organize, direct, motivate and evaluate the efforts of
professionals and volunteers
An accomplished development professional dedicated to building respect for the
organization internally and externally
Demonstrated ability to communicate persuasively, orally and in writing, the importance
of the fundraising goals of the organization
Develop and cultivate relationships among Harrisburg-area community members
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
A high level of initiative and energy
Ability to think critically and articulate opinions
Ability to become acquainted with key donors in a short timeframe
A “hands-on” approach to the responsibilities of the position
Unquestionable integrity and a strong sense of professional ethics
Ability to embrace the mission, philosophy and values of the University
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Ability to set goals and judge results in accordance with the highest standards; care with
sensitivity and respect; advance care through development of new ideas and
technology; promote teamwork to achieve the mission and understand and exceed
customer expectations.
Demonstrate excellent project management skills with an ability to interact with and
motivate others to succeed on several fronts simultaneously
Demonstrated strong organizational and time management skills
Required to work evenings or weekends as needed.
Preferred:
Preference will be given to candidates that also display one of more of the following:
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Professional work history in a non-profit organization
Experience working in development at a higher education institution or non-profit setting
Previous experience as a Special Events Fundraising Manager
Fundraising certification (CFRRE, FAHP, CSPG) or equivalent.
Interested applicants should forward a resume to the attention of:
Erin Hill, Executive Recruiter
Harrisburg University
326 Market Street
Harrisburg, PA 17101
717.901.5130
EHill@harrisburgu.edu