Development Associate, Events

## Description

**Job Title:** Development Associate, Events

**Department:** Development

**Reports to:** Director of Special Events

**Status:** Full-time, Exempt

**Salary Range:** $50,000 - $55,000

**Please include a cover letter and resume when applying.**

**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 of 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
• Managing Symphony Ball and Wine Dinner Silent Auction committees and supplemental meetings or events which may take place in the evening.

**Other Development Department duties and responsibilities**

• Maintain positive, professional and courteous relationships with all Special Events volunteers and vendors (both internal and external)
• 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 multipole 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.