Event Services Manager - Facilities Services - UTK

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UT Knoxville) stands as a beacon of leadership, innovation, and academic excellence rooted in a long-standing tradition since its founding in 1794. As Tennessee's flagship land-grant university, UT Knoxville serves a vibrant community of over 38,000 students and approximately 10,000 employees statewide. The institution is recognized for its comprehensive offerings across 14 degree-granting colleges and schools, providing more than 900 programs of study. With deep ties to industry leaders and the prestigious Oak Ridge National Laboratory, UT Knoxville holds the highest Carnegie classification for research activity, signaling its commitment to impactful scholarship and innovation.

UT Knoxville prides itself on fostering a supportive and dynamic work environment for its staff, valuing employees as its number one asset. Prioritizing work-life balance, professional growth, and leadership development, the university offers extensive career development programs, training opportunities, and continued education support. This commitment has earned UT Knoxville numerous accolades, including recognition as a "Best Employer for New Graduates," "One of America's Best Large Employers," and a "Best Workplace for Women." Additionally, Forbes Magazine has designated it as a "Best Place for Working Parents." These honors reflect the university's dedication to cultivating an inclusive, engaging, and fulfilling workplace.

Within this prestigious academic environment, the Facilities Services department at UT Knoxville plays an essential role by maintaining and supporting over 300 campus facilities and utility systems. As the largest non-academic department at the university, Facilities Services is committed to ensuring a safe, clean, and functional campus experience for students, faculty, staff, and visitors alike. This includes responsibilities spanning facilities maintenance and repair, custodial services, landscaping, utilities, construction projects, environmental initiatives, pest control, and event support services.

The Event Services Manager role is a pivotal position within the Facilities Services Department, situated in the Facilities Operations Branch. The manager serves as the primary liaison for campus event planners, student organizations, and select external clients, coordinating comprehensive Facilities Services support for a diverse range of events such as meetings, conferences, camps, and high-profile university functions. This role demands strong communication, meticulous planning, and collaborative execution to ensure events comply with university policies and meet quality standards.

The Event Services Manager oversees the Facilities Event Services Team, responsible for event setup, teardown, rentals, and equipment management. The manager coordinates efforts across various Facilities Services shops, including Building Services, Landscape and Grounds, Recycling, Plumbing and HVAC, Electrical, and Maintenance and Repair. Collaboration is essential to successfully deliver event-related services addressing room setup, cleaning, signage, electrical needs, waste management, and other logistical requirements.

Additionally, this manager acts as the lead contact for significant campus events hosted by leadership offices such as the Chancellor's Office, Office of the Provost, Athletics Department, and UT Conferences. The role includes organizing internal Facilities Services events such as employee appreciation activities and retirement receptions, with responsibilities encompassing vendor coordination, budget management, policy development, and committee leadership.

This on-site position requires a professional with excellent communication skills, strong organizational capabilities, and the ability to multitask and prioritize competing demands. Proficiency in Microsoft Office, supervisory experience, and a valid driver's license are essential qualifications for success. The role offers an opportunity to be part of a highly respected institution committed to excellence, innovation, community engagement, and the improved experiences of the entire campus community. By joining UT Knoxville as the Event Services Manager, candidates will contribute meaningfully to the university's vibrant culture and tradition of service. The salary aligns with the UT market range MR08, commensurate with experience and qualifications.