Event Services Manager, University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture

The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture (UTIA) is a vital part of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, serving the needs of the state through research, education, and outreach programs in agriculture and related fields. UTIA is dedicated to fostering innovation, sustainability, and excellence in agricultural sciences and is deeply integrated within the broader UT Knoxville campus. As a land-grant institution, UTIA combines academic rigor with practical applications, delivering impactful programs that benefit communities across Tennessee and beyond. The institute is known for its collaborative partnerships, cutting-edge research, and commitment to fostering growth and leadership within its community.

The role of Event Services Manager at UTIA is a dynamic leadership position reporting directly to the Chief Operating Officer. This position carries the responsibility of providing comprehensive institute-wide leadership encompassing UTIA events, parking operations, and space coordination. The Event Services Manager embodies a unique blend of strategic planning and operational execution, overseeing high-profile events from initial concept through successful onsite delivery with meticulous attention to detail. The role acts as a critical liaison among UTIA, UT Knoxville event partners, and external stakeholders, ensuring seamless collaboration and consistent quality across all undertakings.

In this position, the Event Services Manager leads the planning and execution of signature UTIA events, managing timelines, logistics, vendor relations, staffing, and budgets with a commitment to excellence. This role involves direct public-facing interactions, representing the institute to senior leaders, donors, partners, and public officials. Coordination with UT Knoxville Event Planning and other campus partners is essential to harmonize joint events and optimize resource utilization. Furthermore, the manager develops event-specific processes and closely monitors vendor performance to meet high standards.

Beyond event management, the Event Services Manager oversees day-to-day parking operations within UTIA, including leading the annual parking permit review and lot assignment processes. As a liaison with UT Knoxville Parking & Transit and the Parking & Transit Authority Committee, the role addresses real-time parking challenges and devises innovative operational solutions for special requirements.

Administrative leadership is another critical area of responsibility, with the manager supervising staff, student workers, and temporary employees. The position is responsible for setting departmental priorities and goals aligned with UTIA’s strategic direction, coordinating schedules to support evening and weekend events, and fostering strong collaborative relationships across the institute and broader university.

Space and room reservation management also falls under this role’s purview, serving as the institute-level approver for reservations and maintaining accurate room data in line with emergency management requirements. The Event Services Manager ensures the utilization of current university reservation systems to efficiently coordinate space utilization.

The position is located onsite in Knoxville, Tennessee, and offers a competitive salary range of $65,000 to $75,000 annually, under the UT market range MR10. Occasional remote workdays may be available with prior approval and planning. UTIA values work-life balance, professional development, and a supportive, engaging work environment, making this an excellent opportunity for candidates passionate about event management within a leading higher education institution. The university offers robust career growth opportunities and fosters a culture that embraces service, leadership, and innovation, true to its Volunteer spirit.