Development Specialist

Edtech.com's Summary

The University of Utah is hiring a Development Specialist to serve as an Event Manager. This role involves planning and executing a variety of advancement events, managing guest relations, overseeing event logistics, and coordinating with university leadership and donors to support engagement and philanthropy.

Highlights

Plan and execute donor receptions, scholarship events, dedications, and community engagements.
Serve as primary contact for internal clients, donors, and VIP guests, ensuring excellent guest experiences.
Manage all event logistics including catering, audiovisual, venue setup, and vendor coordination.
Develop and oversee event budgets, timelines, and production schedules, ensuring cost efficiency.
Lead on-site event execution, supervising staff and troubleshooting issues in real time.
Prepare post-event reports and use CRM and event tools to track outcomes and engagement.
Requires 3+ years of event planning or client-facing experience and a bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
Preferred experience includes higher education, nonprofit fundraising events, VIP relations, and familiarity with CRM systems.
Pay range is $60,000 to $65,000 annually for a full-time position with typical hours Monday to Friday 8am-5pm plus event flexibility.
Department: Development, reporting to the President’s VP area.

Development Specialist Full Description

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Announcement

Details

Open Date	04/22/2026
Requisition Number	PRN44820B
Job Title	Development Specialist
Working Title	Event Manager
Career Progression Track	D
Track Level
FLSA Code	Administrative
Patient Sensitive Job Code?	No
Standard Hours per Week	40
Full Time or Part Time?	Full Time
Shift	Day
Work Schedule Summary	Monday – Friday 8am-5pm with flexibility for nights and weekends as required for events.
VP Area	President
Department	00289 - Development
Location	Campus
City	Salt Lake City, UT
Type of Recruitment	External Posting
Pay Rate Range	60,000-65,000
Close Date	07/22/2026
Priority Review Date (Note - Posting may close at any time)
Job Summary	Position Summary The University of Utah Advancement Team is seeking a dynamic, detail-oriented Event Manager / Event Producer to plan and execute high-impact events that support the University’s mission of engagement, philanthropy, and institutional pride. This role is ideal for a professional who thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment and is passionate about delivering exceptional guest experiences, client service, and relationship-driven events. You will lead the planning and execution of a wide range of events —from intimate donor dinners to large-scale campus celebrations —while serving as a key liaison between university leadership, donors, and stakeholders.
Responsibilities	Key Responsibilities Event Planning & Execution Plan, coordinate, and execute a portfolio of advancement events, including: Donor recognition receptions Scholarship and stewardship events Groundbreakings and building dedications Alumni and community engagement events Develop event concepts, run-of-show documents, and production timelines Ensure events align with institutional goals, brand standards, and donor intent Guest Relations & Client Services Serve as the primary point of contact for internal clients, donors, and VIP guests Design and deliver exceptional guest experiences, from invitation to post-event follow-up Anticipate guest needs and proactively resolve service issues Manage VIP hosting, seating strategies, accessibility accommodations, and personalized touches Build strong relationships with stakeholders to ensure high satisfaction and repeat engagement Logistics & Operations Oversee all event logistics including catering, audiovisual, venue setup, transportation, and materials Manage vendor sourcing, contracts, and on-site coordination Partner with internal teams (communications, development, facilities, public safety) Ensure compliance with university policies and risk management standards Project & Budget Management Develop and manage event budgets, timelines, and production schedules Track expenses, negotiate vendor pricing, and ensure cost efficiency Manage multiple concurrent events with strong attention to detail On-Site Event Leadership Lead event execution on-site, troubleshooting issues in real time Supervise staff, volunteers, and vendors Ensure seamless flow of programming and high-quality attendee experience Post-Event Strategy & Reporting Prepare post-event reports, including attendance, outcomes, and ROI Manage follow-up communications with donors and stakeholders Use CRM and event tools to track engagement and outcomes
Minimum Qualifications	Minimum Qualifications Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience 3+ years of experience in event planning, hospitality, or client-facing roles Proven ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment Strong organizational skills and attention to detail Excellent communication, interpersonal, and negotiation skills
Preferences	Preferred Qualifications (Enhanced) Experience in higher education, nonprofit, fundraising, or advancement events Strong background in guest services, VIP relations, or hospitality management Experience working with donors, executives, or high-profile stakeholders Familiarity with CRM systems and event management platforms Ability to design elevated, memorable guest experiences Knowledge of event marketing and communications strategies
Type	Benefited Staff
Special Instructions Summary
Additional Information	The University is a participating employer with Utah Retirement Systems (“URS”). Eligible new hires with prior URS service, may elect to enroll in URS if they make the election before they become eligible for retirement (usually the first day of work). Contact Human Resources at (801) 581-7447 for information. Individuals who previously retired and are receiving monthly retirement benefits from URS are subject to URS’ post-retirement rules and restrictions. Please contact Utah Retirement Systems at (801) 366-7770 or (800) 695-4877 or University Human Resource Management at (801) 581-7447 if you have questions regarding the post-retirement rules. This position may require the successful completion of a criminal background check and/or drug screen. The University of Utah values candidates who have experience working in settings with students and possess a strong commitment to improving access to higher education. Veterans’ preference is extended to qualified applicants, upon request and consistent with University policy and Utah state law. Upon request, reasonable accommodations in the application process will be provided to individuals with disabilities. Consistent with state and federal law, the University of Utah does not discriminate based upon race, ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, pregnancy-related conditions, genetic information, or protected veteran’s status. The University does not discriminate on the basis of sex in the education program or activity that it operates, as required by Title IX and 34 CFR part 106. The requirement not to discriminate in education programs or activities extends to admission and employment. Inquiries about the application of Title IX and its regulations may be referred to the Title IX Coordinator, to the Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights, or both. To request a reasonable accommodation for a disability or if you or someone you know has experienced discrimination or sexual misconduct including sexual harassment, you may contact the Director/Title IX Coordinator in the Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX (OEO). More information, including the Director/Title IX Coordinator’s office address, electronic mail address, and telephone number can be located at the: University of Utah Non‑Discrimination page. Online reports may be submitted at https://oeo.utah.edu https://publicsafety.utah.edu/safetyreport/ This report includes statistics about criminal offenses, hate crimes, arrests and referrals for disciplinary action, and Violence Against Women Act offenses. They also provide information about safety and security-related services offered by the University of Utah. A paper copy can be obtained by request at the Department of Public Safety located at 1658 East 500 South. As per University of Utah policy 5-108: Transfer of Benefits Eligible Staff Members, a new hire to the University of Utah who is still serving a 12 month probationary period will not be hired into another University of Utah job (a transfer) until the successful completion of the probationary period.

Posting Specific Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

* Do you have a related Bachelor's degree or equivalency? (2 years related work experience may be substituted for 1 year of education)
- Yes
- No
* Indicate your level of expertise in organizing and implementing fundraising campaigns and/or specific programs or events centered on public relations and development activities:
- None
- Minimal
- Moderate
- Extensive

Applicant Documents

Required Documents

Resume
Cover Letter
List of References

Optional Documents

Historical Only – Do Not Use – See Document Description for More Information – Addendum to the University of Utah – Veteran Only
Historical Only – Do Not Use – See Description for More Information – Appropriate discharge document (such as DD-2214) – Veteran Only

University Human Resource Management
250 East 200 South, Suite 125 Salt Lake City, UT 84111
Contact us: (801) 581-2169 By Email: employment@utah.edu

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Original Job Description

Toggle navigation

Development Specialist Bookmark this Posting Print Preview | Apply for this Job

Announcement

Details

Open Date	04/22/2026
Requisition Number	PRN44820B
Job Title	Development Specialist
Working Title	Event Manager
Career Progression Track	D
Track Level
FLSA Code	Administrative
Patient Sensitive Job Code?	No
Standard Hours per Week	40
Full Time or Part Time?	Full Time
Shift	Day
Work Schedule Summary	Monday – Friday 8am-5pm with flexibility for nights and weekends as required for events.
VP Area	President
Department	00289 - Development
Location	Campus
City	Salt Lake City, UT
Type of Recruitment	External Posting
Pay Rate Range	60,000-65,000
Close Date	07/22/2026
Priority Review Date (Note - Posting may close at any time)
Job Summary	Position Summary The University of Utah Advancement Team is seeking a dynamic, detail-oriented Event Manager / Event Producer to plan and execute high-impact events that support the University’s mission of engagement, philanthropy, and institutional pride. This role is ideal for a professional who thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment and is passionate about delivering exceptional guest experiences, client service, and relationship-driven events. You will lead the planning and execution of a wide range of events —from intimate donor dinners to large-scale campus celebrations —while serving as a key liaison between university leadership, donors, and stakeholders.
Responsibilities	Key Responsibilities Event Planning & Execution Plan, coordinate, and execute a portfolio of advancement events, including: Donor recognition receptions Scholarship and stewardship events Groundbreakings and building dedications Alumni and community engagement events Develop event concepts, run-of-show documents, and production timelines Ensure events align with institutional goals, brand standards, and donor intent Guest Relations & Client Services Serve as the primary point of contact for internal clients, donors, and VIP guests Design and deliver exceptional guest experiences, from invitation to post-event follow-up Anticipate guest needs and proactively resolve service issues Manage VIP hosting, seating strategies, accessibility accommodations, and personalized touches Build strong relationships with stakeholders to ensure high satisfaction and repeat engagement Logistics & Operations Oversee all event logistics including catering, audiovisual, venue setup, transportation, and materials Manage vendor sourcing, contracts, and on-site coordination Partner with internal teams (communications, development, facilities, public safety) Ensure compliance with university policies and risk management standards Project & Budget Management Develop and manage event budgets, timelines, and production schedules Track expenses, negotiate vendor pricing, and ensure cost efficiency Manage multiple concurrent events with strong attention to detail On-Site Event Leadership Lead event execution on-site, troubleshooting issues in real time Supervise staff, volunteers, and vendors Ensure seamless flow of programming and high-quality attendee experience Post-Event Strategy & Reporting Prepare post-event reports, including attendance, outcomes, and ROI Manage follow-up communications with donors and stakeholders Use CRM and event tools to track engagement and outcomes
Minimum Qualifications	Minimum Qualifications Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience 3+ years of experience in event planning, hospitality, or client-facing roles Proven ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment Strong organizational skills and attention to detail Excellent communication, interpersonal, and negotiation skills
Preferences	Preferred Qualifications (Enhanced) Experience in higher education, nonprofit, fundraising, or advancement events Strong background in guest services, VIP relations, or hospitality management Experience working with donors, executives, or high-profile stakeholders Familiarity with CRM systems and event management platforms Ability to design elevated, memorable guest experiences Knowledge of event marketing and communications strategies
Type	Benefited Staff
Special Instructions Summary
Additional Information	The University is a participating employer with Utah Retirement Systems (“URS”). Eligible new hires with prior URS service, may elect to enroll in URS if they make the election before they become eligible for retirement (usually the first day of work). Contact Human Resources at (801) 581-7447 for information. Individuals who previously retired and are receiving monthly retirement benefits from URS are subject to URS’ post-retirement rules and restrictions. Please contact Utah Retirement Systems at (801) 366-7770 or (800) 695-4877 or University Human Resource Management at (801) 581-7447 if you have questions regarding the post-retirement rules. This position may require the successful completion of a criminal background check and/or drug screen. The University of Utah values candidates who have experience working in settings with students and possess a strong commitment to improving access to higher education. Veterans’ preference is extended to qualified applicants, upon request and consistent with University policy and Utah state law. Upon request, reasonable accommodations in the application process will be provided to individuals with disabilities. Consistent with state and federal law, the University of Utah does not discriminate based upon race, ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, pregnancy-related conditions, genetic information, or protected veteran’s status. The University does not discriminate on the basis of sex in the education program or activity that it operates, as required by Title IX and 34 CFR part 106. The requirement not to discriminate in education programs or activities extends to admission and employment. Inquiries about the application of Title IX and its regulations may be referred to the Title IX Coordinator, to the Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights, or both. To request a reasonable accommodation for a disability or if you or someone you know has experienced discrimination or sexual misconduct including sexual harassment, you may contact the Director/Title IX Coordinator in the Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX (OEO). More information, including the Director/Title IX Coordinator’s office address, electronic mail address, and telephone number can be located at the: University of Utah Non‑Discrimination page. Online reports may be submitted at https://oeo.utah.edu https://publicsafety.utah.edu/safetyreport/ This report includes statistics about criminal offenses, hate crimes, arrests and referrals for disciplinary action, and Violence Against Women Act offenses. They also provide information about safety and security-related services offered by the University of Utah. A paper copy can be obtained by request at the Department of Public Safety located at 1658 East 500 South. As per University of Utah policy 5-108: Transfer of Benefits Eligible Staff Members, a new hire to the University of Utah who is still serving a 12 month probationary period will not be hired into another University of Utah job (a transfer) until the successful completion of the probationary period.

Posting Specific Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

* Do you have a related Bachelor's degree or equivalency? (2 years related work experience may be substituted for 1 year of education)
- Yes
- No
* Indicate your level of expertise in organizing and implementing fundraising campaigns and/or specific programs or events centered on public relations and development activities:
- None
- Minimal
- Moderate
- Extensive

Applicant Documents

Required Documents

Resume
Cover Letter
List of References

Optional Documents

Historical Only – Do Not Use – See Document Description for More Information – Addendum to the University of Utah – Veteran Only
Historical Only – Do Not Use – See Description for More Information – Appropriate discharge document (such as DD-2214) – Veteran Only

University Human Resource Management
250 East 200 South, Suite 125 Salt Lake City, UT 84111
Contact us: (801) 581-2169 By Email: employment@utah.edu

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Any data not saved will be lost.

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Development Specialist

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