Events Manager

Job Summary

The Events Manager is responsible for the strategic and logistical management of high-profile special meetings and events held by the Riccio College of Engineering (COE). They ensure all events promote a positive image and reflect the brand, values, and culture of the college and university, enhancing its stature and raising its visibility particularly to outside constituents. They provide event planning expertise and oversee details and execution of multiple programs and events simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.

Events Manager

Academic Affairs

Engineering

Dean - Engineering

Amherst

Full Time

Hybrid

• Develop, implement, and collaborate with others across the college on plans for numerous events, including complex, large‑scale events such as the college’s Senior Recognition Celebration, Outstanding Alumni Awards ceremony, Graduate Research Symposium, Destination Days, and the Tang Endowed Lecture.
• Manage multiple programs and events simultaneously, focusing on strategy, goals, timeline, impact, budget, engagement, and follow‑up. Make recommendations as needed to ensure that the college’s mission, goals, and objectives are met.
• Create systems and procedures to enhance and streamline the event management process. Maintain the college’s events page. Regularly evaluate the success of events and make changes as necessary, paying attention to the suggestions of faculty, staff, students, or other event attendees. Generate ideas for new events to help the college meet its strategic goals.
• Serve as the on‑site production manager at assigned events or activities. Oversee proper event execution, including set‑up and breakdown, addressing urgent issues, and creating an intentionally inclusive atmosphere. Ensure that volunteers, student staff, and participants adhere to the event schedule. Work closely with selected vendors to ensure adherence to contractual agreements and the success of event.
• Liaise directly with college leadership to ensure proper execution of high‑profile college‑level events. Scout and reserve internal and external event space as needed. Ensure proper scheduling and staffing. Oversee the ordering of appropriate food and beverages, paying particular attention to event theme and the dietary needs of the audience. Manage inventory of necessary event supplies.
• Schedule and supervise event rehearsals, as needed. Organize and train volunteers, faculty, and students to support the execution and success of certain large‑scale events. Prepare and disseminate briefings to college leadership and faculty/staff participants on event logistics and their individual role requirements.
• Serve as a college resource on proper execution and details of event planning to ensure adherence to established protocols and practices, including information on venues, layouts, catering/vendor options. Monitor the condition of college meeting spaces and alert the building coordinator when repairs are needed or janitorial issues need to be addressed.
• Coordinate as needed with campus IT, University Police, Amherst EMTs, UMass Parking Services, and Disability Services to ensure safety and accessibility of events. Obtain necessary permits.
• Develop and monitor event budgets. Collaborate with the college’s business office on vendor options, contract negotiations, and proper invoicing. Keep detailed and accurate records of all expenses. Recommend ways to control costs so that each event stays within budget constraints.
• Exercise judgment and demonstrate poise in problem solving for unforeseen and undesirable situations that may impact event planning and implementation. Provide legendary hospitality for all stakeholders.

• Perform related duties as assigned or required to meet college or university goals and objectives.
• Understand responsibilities with respect to conflicts of interest and behave in ways consistent with both law and university policy.
• Contribute toward creating a positive and respectful workplace defined by personal and professional competence, integrity, and collaboration.