Associate Director of University and Events

Associate Director of University and Advancement Events

Job Title:

Associate Director of University and Advancement Events

Location:

Campus

Syracuse University is committed to delivering an exceptional student experience through vibrant, engaged campus communities. This position is based at the above campus location and requires regular in-person presence to support our students, collaborate with colleagues, and contribute to our thriving academic environment. Syracuse University values the collaboration, mentorship, and spontaneous connections that happen when our community works together on campus.

Remote work arrangements are limited in accordance with University policy.

Pay Range: $70,500 - $78,000

Staff Level: S5
FLSA Status:
Exempt

Hours:

Standard University business hours
8:30am – 5:00pm (academic year); 8:00am – 4:30pm (summer). Hours may vary based on operational needs.

Job Type: Full-time
Unionized Position Code:
Not Applicable

Job Description

The Associate Director plans, manages and executes signature alumni, donor, and university-wide events and programs. The role combines event management with hands‑on execution, serving as a key liaison between internal stakeholders and external partners to deliver high‑quality experiences that advance the university’s engagement and fundraising goals. This role manages relationships with external vendors and/or on-campus support services, including catering, physical plant, Learning Environments and Media Production, to coordinate contracts, venue agreements, and secure technical/support services.

The Associate Director will support events and programs of varying purposes, scope, and complexity each year. Their portfolio includes, but is not limited to, affinity programs, donor cultivation and stewardship events, signature athletic events, and the triennial Coming Back Together Reunion. This role will also support additional team members within the UAE team by providing expertise and coordination for additional on‑campus programs;
Commencement, convocations, and Homecoming. The position requires work during non‑business hours, which at times will include working nights, weekends, holidays and/or academic break periods.

The Division of Advancement & External Affairs expresses a shared mission that is collaborative, trusted, respectful, future‑focused and is aligned with the overall University. All current and new employees embrace and demonstrate dedication to promoting shared values in an inclusive work culture to propel the future of advancement operations in their everyday work.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, communications, hospitality, marketing or a related field required.
• 3‑5 years of facility and/or services administration and/or event coordination experience.
• Valid driver’s license is required. Access to reliable mode of transportation is required.
• Demonstrated ability to understand and execute team logistics.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and project management skills.
• Capable of supporting event setup/breakdown and standing for extended periods.

Skills and Knowledge

• Proven ability to manage multiple events and projects and lead events from conception to execution, meeting all deadlines with precision and ensuring seamless coordination with stakeholders.
• Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills; adept at drafting and proofreading professional documents with accuracy, clarity and consistency.
• Resourceful and proactive in resolving challenges, maintaining composure under pressure, and delivering creative, cost‑effective solutions during high‑stakes events.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel) and has the ability to learn and utilize new systems including Encompass, Citrus/Blackbaud, Data Insights, Cater Trax, Prismm, Cobblestone and Qualtrics.
• Delivers high‑level customer service with professionalism and discretion while maintaining confidentiality, a polished demeanor and courteous communication‑style with all constituents.
• Collaborative team member with the flexibility to work evenings and weekends as needed.

Responsibilities

• Oversee a comprehensive planning, coordination,…