Badger Challenge Events Manager

The University of Wisconsin-Madison, a prestigious public research university located in Madison, Wisconsin, is renowned for its commitment to excellence in education, research, and community service. Its School of Medicine and Public Health, particularly the Department of Human Oncology (DHO), exemplifies this dedication through specialized programs focused on radiation oncology. The Department of Human Oncology is a leading center dedicated to advancing cancer treatment by integrating research, education, and compassionate patient care. The department not only trains future radiation oncologists, medical physicists, and radiation therapy professionals but also drives innovative research efforts aimed at accelerating breakthroughs in cancer therapy. Driven by a mission to support cancer research through philanthropy and community engagement, the Department organizes signature fundraising events that engage donors, survivors, patients, volunteers, and community partners alike.

The Department of Human Oncology is currently seeking a highly motivated and experienced Event Manager to lead and manage its flagship Badger Challenge event portfolio. This role is a critical part of the department's fundraising and community engagement efforts aimed at supporting cancer research and improving patient outcomes. The Event Manager will provide strategic leadership and operational oversight while also executing hands-on event planning and management activities. The position is regular, with a competitive salary range from $69,000 to $92,300 depending on experience and qualifications. Employees in this role can anticipate comprehensive benefits including vacation, holidays, sick leave, insurance coverage, savings accounts, and retirement plans.

The Event Manager will take full ownership of the Badger Challenge event portfolio, including the iconic annual Badger Challenge walk, run, and ride event, the Badger Challenge Ball, the Badger Challenge Champions Dinner, golf outings, and additional partner events. The role requires exceptional organizational skills, as the Event Manager will be responsible for managing logistics, vendor relations, volunteer coordination of more than 350 volunteers, budgeting, contract management, and ensuring seamless event-day operations. The selected candidate will serve as the primary point of contact for participants, donors, sponsors, volunteers, and community members, ensuring positive and memorable experiences. Collaboration is key in this role, as the Event Manager will work closely with the Director of Volunteers, the Director of Sponsorship and Community Engagement, and other development and marketing professionals to promote events, activate sponsorships, recruit participants, and enhance fundraising initiatives.

This role demands a solution-oriented professional who thrives in a dynamic environment and can handle complex event details, from venue selection and permitting to safety planning and audiovisual support. Experience managing large-scale events with 500 or more participants is essential, as is a deep understanding of endurance, fitness, or charity events. Proficiency with event management software, registration and fundraising platforms, mapping tools, volunteer coordination platforms, and social media is highly preferred. The Event Manager will also be responsible for budget oversight, financial forecasting, purchase order processing, and compliance with University policies.

The University of Wisconsin-Madison values diversity, equity, and inclusion and encourages applications from candidates of all backgrounds. This position may require partial remote work, with some duties performed onsite at the university campus and others remotely. Applicants must have continuous eligibility to work in the United States and should be prepared to provide proof of work authorization upon hire. This opportunity is ideal for a passionate event professional committed to making a meaningful contribution to cancer research through strategic event leadership and community engagement.