Signature Events Lead

Van Andel Institute (VAI), a world-class biomedical research institute, located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, is dedicated to improving human health. We are pioneers in the fight against cancer, Parkinson's, and other diseases. We are committed to inspiring the next generation of scientists and educators.

FUNCTIONS: Assist with creating, planning and organizing all fundraising events and corporate and community engagement activities. Assist with recruiting, directing and stewarding event volunteers. Attend all relevant committee meetings, record and distribute meeting minutes in a timely fashion. Act as a liaison between the VAI Facilities, Security, and IT Departments as well as vendors and the events team for relevant internal events. Conduct post-event wrap-up and evaluation with vendors, in-kind donors and the VAI Finance Department to verify income statements for each event, including maintaining an annual event portfolio for historical purposes and record keeping. Coordinate event logistics and services, including production of all event mailings and collateral print materials. Maintain accurate records, including donor and sponsor information, expenses, revenue and guest names and information relating to fundraising events. Assemble sponsorship proposals and cultivate new donor relationships; solicit for in-kind sponsorships Process event reservations, prepare master guest lists and supervise registration check-in for events. Update and manage relevant web pages with details, logistics and sponsorship information for local events. QUALIFICATIONS: Bachelors degree in communications, journalism, marketing, public relations, advertising or similar field. Requires previous experience in fundraising, marketing, public/community relations, or event planning. Excellent interpersonal skills to work effectively with staff, volunteers, and the general public, and excellent organizational skills to meet deadlines. Proficient in Microsoft Suite (PowerPoint, Word and Excel) skills, along with fundraising database software (Raisers Edge and Convio). Ability to work in a flexible environment with rapidly changing priorities and a variety of projects simultaneously, including work outside of the normal work day, including weekends. (SEE PERFORMANCE MATRIX FOR DETAILS REGARDING LEVELS) COMPENSATION GRADE: Exempt 04

ABOUT VAN ANDEL INSTITUTE
Van Andel Institute (VAI) is committed to improving the health and enhancing the lives of current and future generations through cutting-edge biomedical research and innovative educational offerings. Established in Grand Rapids, Michigan, in 1996 by the Van Andel family, VAI is now home to more than 650 scientists, educators and support staff, who work with a growing number of national and international collaborators to foster discovery. The Institute’s scientists study the origins of cancer, Parkinson’s and other diseases and translate their findings into breakthrough prevention and treatment strategies. Our educators develop inquiry-based approaches for K–12 education to help students and teachers prepare the next generation of problem-solvers, while our Graduate School offers a rigorous, research-intensive Ph.D. program in molecular and cellular biology. Learn more at vai.org.

Van Andel Institute is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and Vietnam Era Veterans Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA) Employer. We are committed to cultivating a workplace in which different perspectives and experiences are welcomed and respected. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, ancestry, national origin, sex, age, disability (physical or mental), marital or veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, political ideology, or membership in any other legally protected class. We are an Equal Opportunity employer. 

As Van Andel Institute is a drug free employer, all prospective new employees undergo a urinalysis/drug test as part of our pre-employment process.  This is a 7-panel drug screen and it includes testing for Marijuana, Cocaine, Amphetamines, Opiates, PCP, Barbiturates, and Benzodiazepines. 

About Grand Rapids, MI  

Van Andel Institute is in downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan in the center of the Medical Mile.  A remarkable combination of a cosmopolitan atmosphere and small-town warmth, Grand Rapids is known for its philanthropic and sustainability-driven community. It’s fun affordable and family-friendly.  

Located on the banks of the Grand River, Grand Rapids offers all the big-city excitement you'd expect from a million-resident metropolis, featuring hundreds of restaurants and nightspots, theaters, museums, sports and concerts. The safe and clean downtown is surrounded by an eclectic mix of walkable neighborhoods and natural areas. The downtown area is safe and clean with an eclectic mix of walkable neighborhoods and natural areas.