Events Director

Robert Morris University (RMU) is a distinguished higher education institution located in Pennsylvania, known for its commitment to academic excellence and community engagement. Among its notable facilities is the UPMC Events Center, a state-of-the-art 161,000 square foot multi-purpose arena that supports a wide variety of activities including collegiate athletics, concerts, conferences, and special events. Opened in May 2019, the UPMC Events Center stands as a central hub on the RMU campus, providing a versatile venue with over 4,000 seats and an adjacent 11,000 square foot UPMC Health Plan Conference Center. This facility is the proud home for the Robert Morris Colonials Men’s and Women’s Basketball teams as well as the Women’s Volleyball team, hosting games that energize the university community and attract fans from across the region.

The university is currently shifting the management of this premier venue to an in-house model, underscoring its dedication to seamless operational control and excellence. As part of this strategic transition, RMU is seeking a seasoned Director of Event Operations who will play a pivotal role in the day-to-day management and long-term success of the UPMC Events Center. This full-time, staff position offers the opportunity to lead in a dynamic environment at the heart of campus life.

The Director of Event Operations will hold significant responsibilities overseeing the comprehensive operations of the UPMC Events Center — from facility management and event coordination to team leadership and safety compliance. Reporting directly to the General Manager of the UPMC Events Center, the Director will ensure that the facility not only meets but exceeds the expectations of Robert Morris Athletics, the university community, and external visitors. Key duties include supervising a capable team responsible for the maintenance, custodial services, and production aspects that keep the facility running smoothly. Leadership in coordinating the complex logistics for events ranging from basketball games to major concerts and banquets is crucial.

This role demands a strategic thinker who can develop and maintain standard operating procedures while ensuring compliance with OSHA safety standards. The Director will also oversee budget management, inventory control, and the negotiation and coordination with outside contractors and university departments to deliver a superior event experience. The position requires a flexible schedule to accommodate a variety of events that may occur during nights, weekends, and holidays.

Ideal candidates will bring at least five years of experience in facility operations supervision within public assembly settings, demonstrating expertise in budget preparation and crew management. Strong communication skills and the ability to foster positive collaboration among diverse teams and stakeholders are essential. Physical capabilities are also important, as the role involves mobility within the facility, occasional lifting of equipment, and possibly operating maintenance machinery such as forklifts.

This exempt position requires passing a motor vehicle report check, credit check, and Act 153 clearance, reflecting RMU's commitment to security and integrity in its hiring practices. The university is an equal opportunity employer, emphasizing diversity and inclusion in its workforce and ensuring reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.

Joining RMU as the Director of Event Operations at the UPMC Events Center offers a unique opportunity to be at the forefront of campus life, managing a premier venue that hosts a broad spectrum of activities central to the university's mission and community engagement. The successful candidate will enjoy the challenges and rewards of a leadership role that is vital to the smooth functioning and reputation of a major university facility.