The Walker Art Center empowers people to experience the transformative possibilities of the art and ideas of our time and to imagine the world in new ways. In our over 125-year history, we have become one of the most celebrated art museums in the country and we are known for our innovative presentations and acclaimed collections of contemporary art across the spectrum of the visual, performing, and media arts.

Reporting to the Director of Annual Fund and Operations, the Development Events and Stewardship Associate plans, executes, and evaluates most events and experiences for Walker members and donors. The Walker seeks a dynamic, experienced, and creative special events professional to manage member and donor events, including but not limited to tours, receptions, luncheons, and dinners; donor affinity group experiences; cultivation, stewardship, and campaign-related events; and supports our annual fundraising event like Avant Garden. Working at various levels, the Development Events and Stewardship Associate is engaged in both high-level strategy as well as detailed event execution. This position collaborates with Development colleagues, interdepartmental teams, Walker trustees, committees, vendors, partners, special guests, and volunteers to design a wide range of events and experiences, all intended to move members and donors toward greater engagement with the Walker along a continuum from interest to ownership. 

WHAT YOU GET TO DO 

I. Member and Donor Event Strategy and Execution

1. Develop Event Plans and Schedules
   • Lead planning sessions with Development/Membership leadership to create, implement, and evaluate an annual plan and schedule for member and donor events.
   • Coordinate event-related marketing and communications in alignment with the Development team’s communications plan.
2. Plan and Execute Member/Donor Events
   • Oversee the planning, logistics, and evaluation of a wide range of events (in-person and virtual), including tours, receptions, luncheons, dinners, Member Nights, After Hours, A Think & A Drink, Double Discount Days, and donor affinity group experiences.
   • Manage day-of-event details such as guest check-in, attendance, and onsite logistics.
   • Serve as an interdepartmental liaison, representing the Development team at institutional scheduling meetings and collaborating with curators, event production, visitor experience, facility and catering teams, security, and other departments.
3. Cultivation and Stewardship
   • Ensure members and donors receive outstanding service, meaningful communications, and a compelling array of benefits and experiences designed to foster deeper engagement.
   • Provide ongoing evaluation of events and stewardship offerings, incorporating feedback and best practices to continually improve outcomes.

II. Benefit Event (Avant Garden)

1. Committee and Planning Support
   • Support the Director of Benefit Events in the planning and preparation of our annual fundraiser, Avant Garden.
   • Support Avant Garden committee meetings with the Director of Benefit Events.
   • Serve as departmental liaison for selected vendors, internal collaborators, and event production.
2. Invitation Lists, Outreach, and Data Management
   • Manage event invitation lists, communications, outreach calendars, and relevant data records.
   • Support the coordination and logistics of the event cross departmentally. 
   • Coordinate committee progress reports and ensure alignment across teams.
3. Donor and Sponsor Relations
   • Support onsite table experience, registration, guest information, and confirmations.
   • Coordinate donor and sponsor benefits (e.g., table assignments, speaking opportunities, recognition on materials and signage).
   • Support corporate sponsorship activation and day-of event coordination, including set-up and tear-down.

III. Travel Program Management

1. Research and Planning
   • Conduct research on domestic and international travel destinations, including potential travel companies, hotels, restaurants, and transportation.
   • Collaborate with vendors to develop and finalize trip itineraries.
2. Communications and Logistics
   • Prepare and distribute invitations and communications for prospective travelers.
   • Handle registrations, reservations, record-keeping, and reporting.

IV. Departmental Participation and Cross-Functional Collaboration

1. Team Engagement
   • Actively participate in departmental and cross-departmental meetings.
   • Support Development-related projects, collaborating effectively with colleagues across the Walker.
2. Institutional Knowledge
   • Maintain a thorough understanding of the Walker’s mission, vision, values, strategic plan, and programming.
   • Stay abreast of philanthropic and arts industry best practices to inform event and donor engagement strategies.

WHAT WE NEED IN YOU 

Minimum Requirements

• A minimum of four years event experience or equivalent combination of education/training.
• Demonstrated success in planning and executing high-level, creative events for members and donors.
• Superb organizational, interpersonal, written and oral communication skills.
• High degree of initiative and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment successfully and with a sense of humor.
• Excellent relationship-building skills and experience in leading and motivating teams.
• Ability to work well independently and as part of a team, and to remain poised, articulate, and calm under pressure.
• Strong judgment and ability to work with discretion and sensitivity to confidential matters.
• Demonstrated success in valuing and actively promoting diversity; established ability to clearly communicate and work with a wide range of individuals with varied talents, backgrounds, and perspectives.
• Proficiency with computers, Microsoft Office, Adobe, and databases.
• Availability and willingness to work evenings and weekends as needed.
• A serious interest in the arts and the Walker’s mission.

Preferred Skills

• Experience working in a museum or non-profit setting.
• Tessitura experience.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS   

• Ability to lift and/or move heavy loads of print and event materials.

JOB SPECIFICATIONS This position is considered full-time (35 hours per week), exempt. As an exempt position, it is not eligible for overtime pay. The compensation for this role is $60,000-65,000 annually. 

The Walker offers a wide range of benefits for both part-time and full-time employees, click link to view benefits: https://walkerart.org/primary-benefits-package/

This position is not eligible for relocation assistance.

All applicants must be eligible to work in the United States without the need for employer sponsorship. 

Walker’s DEI commitment The Walker is committed to being an employer with a staff who, at all job levels, reflects the rich diversity of the communities and audiences we serve. We are dedicated to ensuring inclusion and equity in all our employment practices. We deeply value and welcome all the unique lived experiences in our applicants and encourage anyone meeting the minimum requirements to apply.

Recruitment Timeline All positions are open until filled.