Manager-Events & Rental

Columbia University is one of the world's leading academic institutions, renowned for its rigorous scholarship and commitment to fostering innovative research and cultural enrichment. At the heart of this prestigious university is the Italian Academy, a vibrant hub dedicated to promoting Italian culture, scholarship, and artistic expression within an academic context. The Italian Academy occupies a historic, landmarked building over 100 years old, which serves as a venue for a wide range of academic and cultural events, including lectures, exhibitions, and conferences both on-site and remotely. This dynamic environment requires efficient coordination, technical expertise, and careful management to ensure that all activities run smoothly and that the historic building is maintained to the highest standards.

The Events & Rental Manager role at the Italian Academy, reporting directly to the Associate Director of Finance and HR Operations, is a pivotal position that blends event coordination, building management, technical support, and administrative responsibilities. The role encompasses the organization, management, and supervision of all rentals within the building, including the Teatro, Library, Salone, Conference room, and Exhibition spaces. Collaborating closely with the Manager of Events and Communication, the incumbent produces and publicizes the Academy's physical and remote events, ensuring broad outreach and engagement through effective communications strategies.

Beyond event management, the incumbent provides comprehensive operational, logistical, and technical support to the Academy's programs and senior leadership. This includes troubleshooting technical problems related to audio-visual equipment, computers, teleconferencing tools, and other technology vital to the Academy's function. The role requires active liaison with Columbia University Information Technology (CUIT) and external vendors to resolve issues quickly and efficiently. In addition, the manager supports post-doctoral scholars with the technical preparation of weekly seminars and assists staff and fellows with various technical challenges.

Facility management is another core component of the position, involving close communication with Columbia departments such as Custodial, Labor, Security, Audio Visual, and CUIT, as well as outside vendors, to facilitate building maintenance and improvements. This responsibility is especially critical given the building's age and landmark status, requiring adherence to institutional guidelines, permit compliance, and timely completion of necessary repairs and upgrades.

The Events & Rental Manager also spearheads efforts to promote rental spaces, track rental income, and enhance the physical environment of the Academy to better serve its community and external clients. The incumbent assists in procuring technical equipment, evaluates proposals for purchasing and building repairs, and ensures all activities align with Columbia University policies and standards.

This regular, full-time position offers a salary range of $72,000 to $76,000 annually for a 35-hour work week. The role demands excellent communication skills, teamwork, and the ability to perform effectively under pressure, often requiring availability during evenings, weekends, and some early mornings to meet operational needs. Candidates should possess a bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience, along with three to five years of relevant experience, particularly in managing events, facilities, and audio-visual technology within an institutional or academic setting.

Joining Columbia University and the Italian Academy means becoming part of a historic institution that values diversity, equity, and inclusion and is committed to supporting its local community. This challenging and rewarding position offers an opportunity to contribute directly to the vibrant cultural and scholarly life of the Academy while managing a unique and architecturally significant venue.