Events Manager Bren Events/Intercollegiate Athletics

The University of California, Irvine (UCI) is a prestigious public research university founded in 1965 and a proud member of the Association of American Universities. Ranked among the top 10 public universities in the United States by U.S. News & World Report, UCI boasts a vibrant academic community with more than 36,000 students pursuing 224 degree programs across various fields. The campus is renowned for its academic excellence, pioneering research, innovative spirit, and its unique anteater mascot. With a history of producing five Nobel laureates, UCI is not only a leader in higher education but also a key economic driver in Orange County, contributing $7 billion annually to the local economy and $8 billion statewide. The university operates in a safe and economically dynamic region, making it an attractive place for both learning and employment.

Within this distinguished institution, the Intercollegiate Athletics department plays an essential role in fostering the growth and success of student-athletes through NCAA Division I sports competition. Committed to supporting the welfare and development of its student-athletes and staff, the department promotes high standards in athletic and academic performance, sportsmanship, diversity, and gender equity. It also serves as a unifying force among students, faculty, alumni, and the community by encouraging a spirited campus culture that transcends various backgrounds and generations.

The Event Manager position within the Intercollegiate Athletics department at UCI is a full-time opportunity offering an annual salary range of approximately $71,600 to $73,116. Reporting to the Associate Athletic Director for Event Operations, the Event Manager plays a vital role in managing and coordinating event services at the Bren Events Center and occasionally at the Crawford Athletics Complex. The Bren Events Center is the primary facility for indoor athletic competitions and practices for multiple sports teams and also functions as a multipurpose venue for rentals and campus events.

This role entails comprehensive responsibility for event coordination, including conducting intake meetings and site visits with clients, preparing detailed event estimates and budgets, staffing coordination, equipment rentals, event layout planning, and overseeing event move-in, execution, and breakdown while ensuring all events comply with university, local, and fire safety regulations. As the primary Game Manager for Men’s Soccer and occasionally for Basketball, Volleyball, and Baseball, the individual will manage all aspects of game operations, including crowd control, communications with officials and visiting teams, and enforcement of university policies and fan conduct.

The Event Manager also oversees the Usher and Guest Services units, including recruiting, hiring, training, scheduling, and supervising student assistants. Development and implementation of comprehensive training programs for usher staff and guest services personnel are key responsibilities. These programs emphasize client service, operational policies, crowd management, use of ticket scanners, front desk monitoring, customer service inquiries, lost and found management, and general event support.

Success in this role requires a deep understanding of event planning, public relations, budget management, and decision-making under pressure. Exceptional organizational and project management skills are essential to deliver high-quality events that meet diverse client needs. Strong interpersonal skills and political acumen enable effective communication across various stakeholders. The ability to manage multiple priorities efficiently, work well with VIP guests, and apply crowd safety knowledge are also critical.

The position requires a bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience and a minimum of three years working in university venues, athletic departments, or professional sports organizations, with at least one to three years of event planning or live event production experience. Preferred qualifications include thorough knowledge of UCI’s campus, policies, and procedures related to event management. Candidates must be available to work nights, weekends, and holidays as needed.

UCI’s total rewards package includes competitive salary, medical insurance, sick and vacation leave, retirement plans, and various employee discounts and perks. The university is committed to providing a safe workplace, requiring background checks and compliance with health and safety policies. UCI values diversity, equity, and inclusion and offers reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced event professional to join a leading university athletics department and contribute to a vibrant campus community and dynamic event environment.