Event Manager

The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Event Manager.

Location:

Hattiesburg
118 College Drive
Hattiesburg, Mississippi,
United States

Division:
Office of the President

Position Type:
Staff

Employment Status:
Full Time

Grant Funded:
No

Pay Grade: E11

Posting Close Date:
Open Until Filled

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B).

The Event Manager plays a key role in elevating the visibility and impact of the University of Southern Mississippi through the strategic planning and execution of high-profile events. This position manages all aspects of Ogletree House rentals, oversees major Alumni Association programs, and supports events hosted by the Office of the President. The University Event Manager ensures that each event aligns with institutional goals and provides meaningful engagement for alumni, donors, and campus stakeholders.

This position represents the university with professionalism and serves as a central resource for exceptional event experiences.

• Ogletree House Rental Management – Oversees all Ogletree House rental operations, including client communication, venue tours, event booking, contract coordination and invoicing, while serving as the primary liaison between the Alumni Association and external event managers to ensure smooth event execution.
• Alumni Association Events – Plans and executes reunions, gameday activities, signature programs, and special events; coordinates logistics, marketing, registration and post-event reviews; and works with staff and volunteers to ensure alignment with alumni engagement and fundraising goals.
• Presidential Events – Coordinates and executes receptions, dinners, donor events and special functions for the Office of the President by developing event plans and managing logistics to ensure high-quality experiences that reflect university standards.
• Athletic Event Support – Assists with managing the President’s Suite during football season by serving as the gameday liaison and supports activities in the President’s baseball suite, as necessary, ensuring well-coordinated, professional event experiences.
• Event Liaison – Represents the Office of the President in planning and coordinating major university or community events, providing guidance and support to ensure events align with institutional priorities and promote the university’s mission.

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Business, Marketing, Communications, Public Relations, General Studies or a related field; and five (5) years of experience in event management with oversight and execution responsibilities.

• Knowledge of event planning and facility scheduling.
• Familiarity with financial tracking and reporting.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint) and database management systems including Quick Books.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently, exercise discretion, and maintain confidentiality.

Master’s degree from an accredited college or university in Business, Marketing, Communications, Public relations, General Studies or a related field. Experience with Salesforce CRM and/or Blackthorn Event.

Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community‑engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation’s leading research institutions.

Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator…