Director of Special Events, RCASH

Missouri State University, located in Springfield, Missouri, is a comprehensive public university known for its commitment to academic excellence, community engagement, and fostering a diverse and inclusive environment. The Reynolds College of Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities (RCASH) is an integral part of Missouri State University, housing twelve academic units that focus on enriching students' knowledge and expanding cultural awareness through rigorous academic programs and community involvement. RCASH plays a vital role in cultivating a vibrant and dynamic academic community, providing students and faculty with numerous opportunities for creative and scholarly exploration within the arts, social sciences, and humanities fields. The college is committed to promoting interdisciplinary collaboration and fostering an environment where innovative ideas and cultural pursuits flourish.

The Director of Special Events, RCASH, is a pivotal role within the Reynolds College of Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities, responsible for the comprehensive planning, organization, and management of all special events affiliated with the college. This full-time position, classified as exempt and situated at the Springfield campus, offers an annual salary range of $65,000 to $70,000. The Director will effectively manage the entire lifecycle of events, from fundraising and publicity to execution and evaluation, ensuring that each event aligns with the college's mission and strategic goals. The role involves detailed budget administration, negotiation of contracts and fees with artists, speakers, and performers, as well as oversight of ticket sales and grant acquisition for precollege programs.

Additionally, the Director serves as a critical liaison, working closely with the Dean, Associate Dean, and school directors across the twelve academic units within RCASH. This collaboration facilitates the coordination of special projects and college-wide programming designed to engage the university and broader community. The Director’s responsibilities extend to managing operations and patron relations for events held in key venues such as the Reynolds Complex, Reynolds Arts Park, and the John Goodman Amphitheatre. Essential job functions also include logistical coordination like travel and accommodation arrangements for guest artists and speakers, organizing receptions and promotional activities, and engaging external partners to enhance event success.

With a strong emphasis on community outreach and partnership-building, the Director also plays an integral role in fundraising initiatives and grant writing efforts to support RCASH programs. The position requires someone with exceptional interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills, the ability to prioritize varied tasks, and make effective decisions independently. The Director must be adept in various computer software applications, including word processing and database management, and able to handle the administrative intricacies within a university setting. Travel across campus locations and occasional evening and weekend work are fundamental to the role. This position is open to all applicants and is not eligible for work visa sponsorship. Candidates must be capable of lifting objects up to forty pounds and demonstrate leadership experience in arts events, university events, festivals, workshops, public relations, or fundraising initiatives. This is a unique opportunity for a motivated professional to contribute meaningfully to the cultural and academic vibrancy of Missouri State University through the Reynolds College of Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities.