Director of Special Events

The King School is an independent day school in Stamford, CT, educating students from PreK to Grade 12.

MISSION

King prepares students to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Our students are immersed in an engaging and innovative curriculum anchored in an inquiry-based approach that fosters curiosity, intellectual growth, and character development. At King, individual accomplishment complements a deep sense of belonging. We embrace diversity in all its forms, nurturing every student to learn and grow in a collaborative and supportive community. Guided by dedicated educators and a commitment to academic excellence, King students become invested in their journey, develop a lifelong love of learning, and are well-equipped to succeed in college and beyond. They graduate with a global mindset, a strong sense of social responsibility, and the confidence to pursue lives of purpose.

DIRECTOR OF SPECIAL EVENTS

Reports to: Director of Development and Alumni Relations

Location: King School, Stamford, CT

Classification: Full Time (12 months), Exempt

POSITION SUMMARY

The Director of Special Events at King School is a vital member of the Development team, responsible for planning, coordinating, and executing all Development Office and major institutional events. These events are designed to cultivate relationships across Kings extended community, support fundraising goals, and foster school spirit. The role includes managing event logistics, budgets, volunteers, and partnerships with both internal and external stakeholders.

This position also serves as the primary liaison to the Parents Association and collaborates closely with the Marketing and Communications team on event materials and strategy. Additional responsibilities include supporting alumni and parent engagement, overseeing archival partnerships, and serving as a resource for student-alumni connection initiatives. The ideal candidate is a highly organized, collaborative, and creative individual with experience in events and advancement, strong interpersonal skills, and a commitment to Kings mission and values of inclusion and excellence.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

Events and Engagement:

Conceptualize, plan, coordinate, organize, design, provide strategic direction, and execute the entire life cycle of events for all Development Office and major institutional events, both on and off campus. These events include, but are not limited to, the State of the School, Homecoming/Reunion, new parent events, the Faculty and Staff Holiday Party, the Celebration of Philanthropy, the Golf Outing, as well as donor and volunteer receptions, and the biennial school gala.

Secure dates, negotiate contracts, coordinate logistics (including securing venues, catering, signage, dcor, and A/V arrangements, as well as travel arrangements).

Complete work orders and coordinate with Facilities as needed for all on-campus events. Manage on-site event execution and follow-up, including post-event analysis and evaluation.

Prepare and monitor event budgets and timelines, report progress and updates to the Development team.

Manage event volunteer leadership, committees, and planning meetings.

Collaborate on campaigns such as Give King Tuesday and Philanthropy Day, assisting with messaging and follow-up.

Keep the Development Office and the Head of School updated on event RSVP numbers and guests.

MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS:

Serve as a strategic and creative partner to the Marketing and Communications Department on the creation of event-related materials, including, but not limited to, emails, invitations, website, marketing, strategy, and communications to various constituents, including alumni, parents, parents of alumni, grandparents, trustees, etc.

Manage creative content for event marketing, including graphic design, video, and webpage oversight.

Create all event collateral materials, including programs, signage, nametags, and other related printed materials.

COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP:

Serve as the primary Development liaison to the Parents Association Executive Board, attending weekly meetings and fostering strong, relationship-based collaboration.

Support ad hoc Parents Association events and needs.

In partnership with the Alumni Associate, coordinate specific events for student clubs and alumni/parents of alumni. Examples include Career Day, Hot Chocolate and Hellos, as well as receptions and other networking, mentorship, and internship opportunities.

Serve as the event point of contact for Opening Day events and Roadmap to Senior Year.CUSTOMER SERVICE AND COLLABORATION

Be courteous and provide excellent customer service through all phases of event planning.

Maintain event records and ensure the integrity of Raisers Edge development databases.

Perform all other duties as required and assigned.

REQUIREMENTS AND SKILLS:

Bachelors degree required.

Valid Drivers License required.

3+ years of experience in event planning

Experience with Raisers Edge or similar CRM/database preferred.

Proficiency in event software, graphic design, and website/content management is a plus.

Highly skilled in a full suite of communication approaches and proficient in a range of electronic outreach tools, such as Microsoft Office, Google Suite, and Give Campus.

Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Proven ability to work collaboratively and cross-functionally with colleagues, vendors, alumni, parents, trustees, and students.

Ability to work independently, handle confidential information, and solve problems under pressure.

Exceptional organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.

Availability for occasional evening and weekend work.

A positive, professional public presence and sense of humor.

HIGHLIGHTS OF BENEFITS INCLUDE:

Comprehensive health insurance

Healthcare Savings Account (HSA) option with generous employer contributions

403(b) Pension Plan featuring an employer match that grows over time

100% employer-paid life insurance

Employee Assistance Program

Generous vacation time

Daily lunch options are provided during the school year

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