Director of Experiential Engagement

Director Of Experiential Engagement

Baylor University, a humble college founded before Texas was a state, now stands as one of the premier institutions of higher education in the world. Baylor has continued to invest in research and doctoral education, solidifying and elevating its unique status as a preeminent Christian research university. Baylor is among 187 R1 institutions, just 52 of which are private universities.

Since 2011, Baylor has been named as one of the nation's "Great Colleges to Work For". Great Colleges to Work For is one of the country's largest and most respected workplace recognition programs. Each year, Great Colleges recognizes the colleges and universities that get top employee ratings regarding workplace practices and policies across 10 areas. This recognition is based on faculty and staff responses to a related annual survey. The survey, conducted by ModernThink, is a way for colleges and universities to gain a deeper understanding of how their employees experience and view various aspects of the institution. This continued recognition further affirms Baylor as a rewarding place to build a career.

What We Are Looking For

The Director of Experiential Engagement supports the mission of Baylor University by providing strategic leadership in the planning, development, execution, and evaluation of high-impact experiential engagement opportunities that strengthen relationships with alumni, donors, parents, and friends of the University. This role collaborates with internal and external partners to design and deliver sophisticated events and experiences that advance the University's fundraising, donor engagement, stewardship, and institutional priorities.

This position requires flexibility to work evenings and weekends in support of University events, donor engagement activities, and other institutional priorities.

A bachelor's degree and four years of relevant experience are required. A master's degree and six years of relevant experience is preferred.

Additional education or experience will be considered in lieu of one another.

The successful candidate will exhibit the following skills, abilities and other characteristics:

• Demonstrated ability to lead strategic initiatives with minimal supervision while exercising sound judgment, initiative, and independent decision-making
• Proven leadership skills with the ability to supervise, mentor, and develop professional staff while fostering collaboration and accountability
• Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to effectively engage senior university leadership, major donors, Regents, volunteers, alumni, and external partners with professionalism and discretion
• Strong project management and organizational skills with the ability to prioritize competing deadlines and manage multiple complex events simultaneously
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Exceptional attention to detail and commitment to delivering a high level of customer service and event excellence
• Knowledge of event production, hospitality, vendor management, contract administration, and printing processes
• Experience utilizing CRM and database systems, with a willingness to learn new technologies and event management platforms
• Strong analytical, budget management, and fundraising knowledge
• Ability to maintain confidential information and exercise discretion in sensitive situations
• Demonstrated ability to anticipate challenges, solve problems proactively, and adapt to changing priorities
• Professional appearance, demeanor, and commitment to representing Baylor University with excellence

A valid US Driver License with a clear driving record of at least two years is required.

Must be able to travel outside of the state of Texas.

Applicants must be authorized to work full-time in the United States.

What You Will Do

• Develop and implement creative, imaginative events that recognize the contributions of major donors, cultivate prospective donors and promote fundraising initiatives
• Prepare written event plans, budgets, engage campus partners throughout implementation
• Develop event strategies, guest lists, etc. for high profile events with University senior administration and other departments/schools across campus
• Understand desired outcomes for event programming and achieve those outcomes
• Facilitate and/or coordinate special projects, reports, and requests from senior administration within University Development, Marketing and Communications, Alumni Engagement and the President's office
• Develop and implement creative and meaningful follow-up components for major donors in conjunction with senior management of Advancement
• Perform all other duties as assigned to support Baylor's mission
• Ability to comply with University policies
• Maintain regular and punctual attendance

What You Can Expect

As part of the Baylor family, eligible employees receive a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision insurance, generous time off, tuition remission, and outstanding automatic retirement contributions. Baylor has a comprehensive benefits plan that supports you and your family's wellbeing and allows you to be a part of the life of a vibrant and active college campus. To learn more, go to Baylor Benefits & Advantages.

Learn more about Baylor and our strategic vision, Baylor in Deeds. Also, explore our great hometown of Waco and the many opportunities to engage locally. If you are new to Central Texas, This is Waco!