Events and Operations Coordinator

The University of Tennessee Foundation, Inc. (UTFI) is a reputable not-for-profit 501(c)3 organization dedicated to serving as the primary conduit for private contributions that benefit students and faculty across the University of Tennessee System. UTFI is committed to advancing educational excellence and innovation, with a vision to become one of the premier advancement organizations within higher education. The foundation actively supports various campuses including Knoxville, Chattanooga, Pulaski, Martin, and the Health Science Center at Memphis, along with the Institute of Agriculture and the Institute for Public Service, enhancing the broader educational landscape of the region.

The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC), part of this esteemed system, is a national example of a metropolitan university delivering outstanding experiential learning. With over 11,350 students, UTC offers an extensive selection of academic programs across four colleges including bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. UTC is renowned for preparing students to thrive globally while maintaining a cost-effective educational environment. Paired with strong community and regional partnerships, UTC continuously fosters academic excellence and inclusive growth.

Within this dynamic environment, the UTFI invites qualified professionals to apply for the role of Events and Operations Coordinator based at UTC. This full-time position reports to the Associate Athletic Director of Advancement and is critical in advancing donor engagement and operational excellence for UTC Athletics and the UC Foundation. The position primarily focuses on designing and coordinating strategic signature events, donor hospitality programs, stewardship communications, and operational support.

As an Events and Operations Coordinator, the successful candidate will take a leadership role in planning and executing high-profile events aimed at fostering strong relationships with UTC Athletics donors and VIP supporters. Responsibilities include managing vendor partnerships, overseeing event logistics, and spearheading innovative donor appreciation initiatives that enhance the overall donation experience. The role demands sharpening strategies that increase donor retention and engagement through meticulous stewardship and personalized communication efforts.

Stewardship and communication are significant components of this role. The coordinator will develop and implement stewardship communication strategies including donor updates, storytelling that highlights student-athletes, and premium publications aligned with fundraising goals. They will collaborate with marketing leadership to analyze performance data and refine communication approaches to maximize donor impact. Furthermore, the coordinator will support gift entry accuracy and integration with UTFI systems to ensure seamless operational alignment.

Operationally, this role acts as a strategic adviser to senior leadership, including the Vice Chancellor and Director of Athletics, providing insights on optimizing donor experiences and enhancing engagement strategies. The position occasionally requires staffing at advancement-related events to deliver on-site expertise and gather feedback for continuous improvement. The target start date for this position is August 2026.

This position requires a bachelor’s degree combined with a minimum of one year of event management experience, preferably within athletics-related contexts, alongside demonstrated communications experience. A valid driver's license with a clean driving record is mandatory due to travel requirements associated with the role. Experience in intercollegiate athletic fundraising is preferred but not mandatory.

The University of Tennessee Foundation offers a comprehensive benefits package including generous paid leave, flexible work arrangements, education benefits, retirement plans, health insurance coverage, and employee discounts. UTFI is dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace and is an equal opportunity employer, providing equitable consideration regardless of race, gender, or any other protected status.