Director of University Events

Fort Collins, CO, USA|Travel, Onsite

Job Overview

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Employment Type

Full-time
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Compensation

Salary
Range $52,800.00 - $93,200.00
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Work Schedule

Weekend Shifts
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Benefits

Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Paid Time Off
Retirement Plan
Professional development opportunities
flexible schedule
Payment for travel expenses

Job Description

The University is a prestigious institution dedicated to advancing education, research, and community engagement while fostering a culture of excellence and inclusivity. Known for its comprehensive academic programs and vibrant campus life, the university continuously strives to enhance its impact locally, nationally, and internationally. The university's commitment to innovation and strategic growth is matched by its focus on strengthening relationships with alumni, donors, and other key constituents through high-quality engagement and institutional events.

The Director of University Events plays a vital role in this ecosystem by providing strategic leadership and operational oversight for all major university events. This role ensures that each event reflects the university's presidential standard of hospitality and branding necessary to align with institutional priorities. The director manages a diverse portfolio of events including commencement ceremonies, donor engagements, alumni gatherings, and recognition ceremonies that are crucial to advancing the university's mission. The Director works closely with university leadership and campus partners to develop and implement event strategies that support fundraising, marketing, and community outreach efforts.

This position demands a leader who can oversee the complex logistics of high-profile events occurring on campus, throughout Colorado, and nationally, maintaining a high level of visibility and engagement with both internal and external stakeholders. The Director reports directly to the Assistant Vice President for Alumni & Community Relations and is an integral member of the university advancement events team. With responsibility for staff supervision, resource management, and strategic planning, the Director ensures that all events achieve measurable outcomes and demonstrate a clear return on investment for the university.

The role involves direct management of key events such as the biannual commencement, working in collaboration with multiple offices including the President, Provost, Registrar, Graduate School, and external vendors. The position demands expertise in event marketing, budgeting, vendor relations, hospitality, and technology, as well as the ability to enforce compliance with university and state policies. The Director also serves as a subject matter expert on event-related software and is responsible for guiding the Assistant Director of University Events and other team members to deliver exceptional service.

Additionally, the Director is responsible for the overall vision, planning, and continuous improvement of the university’s centralized event operation. This includes evaluating industry trends, developing policies and standards, and maintaining communication channels to ensure seamless event execution. They also play a key role in fostering community partnerships and building strong relationships with alumni, donors, volunteers, and vendors. Available to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, the Director demonstrates outstanding organizational skills, superior communication abilities, and a passion for excellence in hospitality and event management.

Job Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree required
  • Minimum of 5 years directly related experience in event planning and management preferred
  • Strong organizational skills
  • Ability to prioritize work and work independently
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office
  • Excellent communication, writing, and proofreading skills
  • Customer service orientation
  • Knowledge of Raiser's Edge desired
  • Willingness to work weekends and evenings
  • Ability to travel as needed
  • Ability to lift 25 pounds
  • Ability to manage multiple projects
  • Ability to handle confidential information

Job Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree
  • Minimum of 5 years experience in event planning and management
  • Certified Event Planner preferred
  • Proven hospitality and stewardship skills
  • Strong volunteer management and communication skills
  • Knowledge of event-related software and technology
  • Experience in budget management and reporting

Job Duties

  • Provide strategic leadership and oversight for the university events program
  • Direct biannual commencement planning, execution, and assessment
  • Manage annual recognition ceremonies and donor events
  • Direct event budgeting, marketing, vendor coordination, and hospitality
  • Supervise Assistant Director and support staff
  • Develop and implement long-term event strategy and policies
  • Build collaborative relationships across campus and community

Job Criteria

Experience

Mid Level (3-7 years)


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