Director of Special Events & Parent Engagement

Director of Special Events & Parent EngagementFounded in 1872, Saint Peter’s Prep is a Catholic, Jesuit high school and has stood proudly as one of New Jersey’s premier educational institutions. Prep is located in the historic Paulus Hook neighborhood on the Jersey City waterfront and serves a high-achieving student body of 900 young men who represent 140 different communities in 11 counties, plus New York City. Summary Description:The Director of Special Events and Parent Engagement is responsible for developing, implementing and executing a comprehensive event schedule and parent engagement strategy. This includes, but is not limited to, major on and off campus fundraising and parent events. Through communications, functions and programs, the Director enables the Office of Advancement to achieve its mission of cultivating and maintaining relationships with Prep’s alumni, parents and friends to have a positive impact on the overall goals of the Advancement Team.The Director reports to the Vice President of Advancement.ResponsibilitiesProvide strategic direction and oversees all aspects of the development of special events and parent programming, large scale galas, intimate receptions, volunteer programming and other events on and off campus. Below are specific perennial special events and programs:

President’s DinnerGrand GalaFashion ShowMother / Son DanceFall Parent Welcome End of Year Parents on the PlazaOversees the development and implementation of comprehensive communications strategy for general outreach, events and programs including but not limited to pre event planning and post event thank you and survey options.

In collaboration with the Advancement Team, solicits donations and sponsorships for special events such as the Fashion Show and the Grand Gala.

Recruits, organizes and stewards parent volunteers in support of fundraising and parent programming, with particular attention to cultivating event co-chairs.

Works with the Database Manager to set effective protocols for the entry of registrations and event donations.

Screens parents for their potential to further engage in advancement efforts.

Provides detailed financial and logistical follow-up reports for all major events.

Develops new programs, events and outreach efforts to bring new populations of parents and friends closer to Prep.

Manages and tracks event related budgets, and ensures brand integrity and consistency for all event management activities.

Collaborates with Communications Team to develop a comprehensive communications plan for all events and programs including the events calendar, social media and event-specific communications.

Performs other duties as assigned by the Vice President of Advancement.

Qualification Standards

Education:A Bachelor’s degree is required with a Master’s degree preferred.

Experience:Minimum of 5-8 years professional work experience in event management, public relations, or related business environment.

In addition to these qualifications, because of the nature of the position, certain personal qualities are key to the success of the individual in this role. They include:The ability to stay abreast of trends in alumni and parent engagement, fundraising, social media and cutting edge marketing practices.Strong oral and written communications skills. Outcomes-oriented work style.Optimistic and empowered attitude.Creativity and high energy. Actively engage in cross-functional collaboration and foster a cohesive team environment to achieve shared goals and objectives.Unparalleled personal integrity and respect for confidentiality, prudence and discretion.Ability to inspire and engender a passion for Saint Peter’s Prep and the Jesuit mission.

Licenses:Driver’s license

Other Considerations:A personal vehicle is required, as well as a willingness to travel and work outside of normal business hours including some nights and weekends. Raiser’s Edge experience is preferred.

To apply, please submit a resume, cover letter, and three references via the link provided. Please do not email, mail, or fax any materials.

Saint Peter’s Prep does not discriminate on the basis of gender, race, ethnic origin or sexual orientation in any of its employment policies.