Alumni Relations and Special Events Officer

Position Overview:

The Alumni Relations and Special Events Officer at Duke Kunshan University’s Development and Alumni Relations Office plays a vital role in implementing the university’s alumni relations and development strategies. This position supports both immediate and long-term goals by building strong alumni relationships and delivering high-impact events that enhance donor and prospect engagement.

Reports to:

Associate Director for Alumni Relations and Special Events

Essential Duties:

Alumni Relations: 

• Alumni Engagement Programs: Support key initiatives such as DKU Homecoming, alumni reunions, regional alumni gatherings, and alumni talks.
• Alumni Services Management: Oversee the day-to-day logistics of alumni services, including benefits administration and responding to alumni inquiries.
• Alumni Data Management: Maintain up-to-date alumni records in Salesforce and the DKU Alumni Website, including contact and employment information.
• Alumni Communications: Develop and implement communication plans through email, website, social media, and direct outreach.
• Student-Alumni Connections: Lead and support the DKU Student Alumni Board (SAB) and other student-facing initiatives to strengthen student-alumni ties.
• Philanthropic Engagement: Partner with the fundraising team and DKU Foundation to engage alumni in giving opportunities, including the Annual Fund and campaign appeals.
• Volunteer Coordination: Recruit, train, and manage alumni volunteers across various programs.
• Event Support: Provide support for alumni club events and other volunteer-led activities.
• Interdepartmental Collaboration: Coordinate with other departments to ensure consistent and strategic alumni engagement across the university.

Special Events:

• Event Planning and Execution: Support the development-related events such as Advisory Board meetings, Foundation Board meetings, gala dinners, fundraising auctions, Distinguished Speaker Series, and the Duke International Forum.
• Event Materials and Design: Manage the design and production of event materials, including invitations, agendas, signage, and printed collateral; coordinate with vendors for production and quotes.
• Donor Support: Provide support for donor cultivation, recognition, and stewardship activities.
• Logistics Management: Handle event logistics such as budgeting, internal approvals, and vendor coordination.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
• University employees' job responsibilities will continue to expand in scope and depth as the University grows in size and complexity in its programs.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree required; master’s degree preferred.
• Minimum of 2 years of relevant experience in alumni relations, event planning, marketing and public relations, or related fields.
• Knowledge of and/or involvement with Duke University and Duke Kunshan University, including their disciplines and relationships, with a willingness to develop an in-depth understanding.
• Fluency in English and Mandarin, with strong written and verbal communication skills in both languages.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of stakeholders, including alumni, donors, vendors, and internal teams.
• Demonstrated initiative and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously with strong organizational skills.