Events Manager, Leadership Events - University Advancement

Washington University in St. Louis, located in Missouri, is a prestigious private research university renowned for its commitment to education, research, and community engagement. Established in 1853, this academic institution has consistently advanced higher education standards and fostered a collaborative environment that drives innovation and leadership across various disciplines. The university's Advancement division plays a crucial role in cultivating relationships with alumni, donors, and other stakeholders to secure resources that empower the university’s mission and growth.

The role of Events Manager within the University Advancement department is vital in strengthening these relationships by planning and executing high-profile events designed to engage and maintain connections with senior leaders, principal donors, faculty, alumni, and visiting dignitaries. Reporting to the Director of Leadership Events, this position demands a detail-oriented professional skilled in crafting meaningful experiences that reflect the university's prestigious standing and support its strategic goals.

As the Events Manager, you will oversee and coordinate an extensive variety of events ranging from intimate private dinners, fireside chats, and receptions to large-scale commencement ceremonies and university memorials. Your responsibility includes collaborating closely with institutional partners, senior university officials, faculty, and staff to deliver seamless and memorable engagement experiences that promote stewardship and foster long-term support.

The role encompasses managing event logistics, contracting and negotiating with vendors, supervising event operations, coordinating invitations and communications, managing guest data, and orchestrating mail projects. You will develop detailed timelines and collaborate with project coordinators to ensure flawless execution. Flexibility is essential, as this role occasionally requires working outside regular business hours, including nights and weekends, to ensure the success of key events.

This full-time position, located in St. Louis, Missouri, offers a competitive salary range between $53,100 and $90,600 annually, reflecting an inclusive compensation package based on qualifications, experience, and departmental budget considerations. The successful candidate will have at least two years of relevant experience and a bachelor's degree, demonstrating a robust understanding of event planning and a passion for advancing the university’s mission. While no specific certifications or driver's license is required, strong skills in partnership building, communication, project management, and proficiency in various software tools are highly desirable.

The position not only offers a rewarding career path but also access to comprehensive benefits, including up to 22 days of vacation, 10 recognized holidays, competitive health insurance with priority appointments and lowered copays, a retirement savings plan, mental health resources, family leave, and tuition coverage for employees and their families. This role demands a motivated individual with high-integrity, exceptional interpersonal skills, and an ability to multitask and work collaboratively across different levels of university administration and external partners, contributing meaningfully to the advancement of the institution's goals.