Director of Conference Services (AS9709)

The hiring establishment is a university campus situated in DeLand, focusing on delivering exceptional conference services and event management for various programs and third-party clients. This institution is committed to providing a professional and dynamic environment for managing venue rentals, summer overnight programs, and visiting rowing programs while fostering strong community engagement and partnership across campus departments. As an educational entity, the university emphasizes collaboration, quality service delivery, and operational efficiency to maintain its standing as a preferred location for conferences and events.

The role open at this university is the Director of Conference Services, a key leadership position responsible for overseeing all revenue-generating conference operations. This includes managing third-party venue rentals, orchestrating overnight summer programs, and facilitating visiting rowing programs on the DeLand campus. The position requires balancing front-line client management with strategic program planning and comprehensive operational oversight. It calls for a seasoned professional adept at leading a team, maintaining client relationships, negotiating contracts, and ensuring the seamless execution of events with the support of various campus partners.

The Director will supervise an assistant director and collaborate closely with the Executive Director of University Events and Conference Services. This role entails preparing proposals, managing contracts, processing invoicing, and ensuring client expectations align with the campus's operational capabilities. The Director is also tasked with identifying logistical considerations, managing risks, and maintaining a high-level overview of all programs while stepping in to resolve complex issues. Financial oversight is critical, as the individual will monitor revenue and expenses, negotiate vendor and hotel agreements, and contribute to the annual budget development.

Candidates must exhibit expertise in hospitality and event management, possess strong organizational leadership skills, and demonstrate proficiency in budgeting and financial management. The role demands exceptional communication skills, a client-focused approach, and the ability to manage multiple stakeholders effectively. A bachelor's degree in event management or a related field, combined with 4-6 years of relevant experience, is required. Flexibility in schedule, including working evenings and weekends during peak seasons, is essential.

Overall, this opportunity offers an experienced professional the chance to contribute significantly to the university's conference services excellence, engage in high-impact program execution, and lead a dedicated team in a vibrant educational setting. The position promises a challenging yet rewarding career path with opportunities for professional development and integration within a collaborative campus community.