Associate Director of Events and Operations

The University of Utah is a renowned institution known for its commitment to academic excellence and community engagement. Situated in the vibrant and culturally rich city of Salt Lake City, the University offers a dynamic environment where innovation and tradition intersect. The Rice-Eccles Stadium and the Jon M. Huntsman Center are iconic venues on the campus, hosting a wide range of sports, entertainment, and community events each year. These venues play a significant role in the campus life and broader community, requiring expert leadership to ensure seamless operations and exceptional client experiences.

The position of Associate Director of Events and Operations is a critical leadership role within the University of Utah's auxiliary services. Reporting directly to the Director of Stadium, Arena, and Campus Event Services, this individual will be responsible for overseeing the operations and client services at Rice-Eccles Stadium and the Jon M. Huntsman Center. This full-time role offers a competitive salary range of $90,000 to $110,000 depending on experience and demands a highly organized, proactive, and collaborative professional.

As the Associate Director, you will provide vision, management, and direction for all events and operations conducted at these major campus venues. Your role will include direct supervision of Client Services and Venue Operations teams, ensuring all events run smoothly from planning through execution. Coordination will extend beyond internal teams to campus-wide partners such as parking services, campus police, security personnel, contracted guest services, and facilities management. You will also serve as a liaison for any stadium or arena projects, overseeing work orders and ensuring compliance with university policies and safety regulations.

The scope of responsibilities includes managing contracts with both current and prospective clients, overseeing banquet and reception services in the stadium tower and the Huntsman Center, and regularly updating and training staff on safety procedures. Participation in policy development and interpretation ensures that the events department maintains alignment with university regulations and standards. This role also involves staff recruitment, performance management, and retention efforts to build a high-performing team that contributes to the university's mission.

Successful candidates will bring at least a bachelor's degree in business, public administration, event or operations management, or a related field. A master’s degree is preferred along with a minimum of six years of progressively responsible management experience, ideally within environments that demand collaboration across multiple departments or units. Experience in construction management, project delivery, or business operations within higher education is beneficial. Strong communication skills, leadership capacity, and an ability to manage multiple projects with meticulous attention to detail are essential. The role requires working regularly during the day with availability for evening and weekend events.

Embracing a proactive and self-motivated work style, the Associate Director also represents the University in community settings, fostering partnerships that support the vibrancy and success of campus event services. This is an exciting opportunity for a dedicated professional to lead and shape the future of event operations in one of the most prestigious university environments in the region.