Manager, Special Events

Position Summary

Promote and enhance the visibility and reputation of Loyola Marymount University by leading the strategic planning, execution, and evaluation of high-impact special events that advance the goals of the University Advancement division. Drive the successful planning and delivery of alumni, volunteer leadership, and donor engagement experiences, cultivating strong partnerships with University Advancement colleagues, LMU staff, and external partners. Support institutional fundraising priorities through donor cultivation and stewardship strategies, strengthening relationships and contributing to long‑term philanthropic support.

• Develop, manage, and execute a portfolio of high‑profile events that enhance LMU’s visibility, reputation, and engagement objectives (85%).
• Oversee all phases of event planning and execution for assigned events, including strategic planning, marketing coordination, constituency engagement, budget management, venue and vendor management, risk mitigation, program development, staffing and volunteer coordination, registration and guest management, event execution, and post‑event evaluation.
• Collaborate closely with University Advancement Marketing & Communications (Adv Comm), campus partners, and external vendors to ensure alignment with institutional priorities and brand standards.
• Lead and participate in strategic planning sessions and post‑event evaluations to assess performance, measure outcomes against established goals, and inform future event strategy.
• Establish, implement, and maintain professional standards, processes, and procedures that ensure the successful delivery of events consistent with LMU’s brand and reputation (10%).
• Perform other duties as assigned in support of the Director of Special Events and the University Advancement division (5%).
• Exhibit behavior that supports the mission, vision, and values of the university, communicating with professional, ethical conduct and a commitment to outstanding customer service.

• Minimum of five years of progressive experience in event planning and production, including in‑person and virtual events, preferably within higher education or a similarly complex organization.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and oversee event staff, volunteers, vendors, and cross‑functional teams in a collaborative, results‑driven environment.
• Strong project management skills, managing multiple concurrent events from concept through execution while meeting deadlines and delivering high‑quality outcomes.
• Proven ability to manage budgets, timelines, and competing priorities in fast‑paced, deadline‑driven environments.
• Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills, engaging diverse audiences and navigating complex stakeholder dynamics with professionalism and diplomacy.
• Highly developed judgment and decision‑making skills, providing clear direction and resolving issues effectively.
• Knowledge of event marketing, communications, and social media strategies, including familiarity with relevant tools and platforms.
• Proficiency in virtual event and meeting platforms (e.g., Zoom) and the ability to learn new technologies quickly.
• Working knowledge of the Los Angeles event market and established relationships with vendors preferred.
• Experience with university events and environments preferred.
• Discretion in handling confidential information, particularly with senior leaders, dignitaries, and high‑profile donors.
• Proficiency in enterprise event and project management systems (e.g., Cvent, Smartsheet, Salesforce) and Microsoft Office applications.

A bachelor’s degree, an industry‑related certification (e.g., CMP or CSEP), and/or equivalent experience in event planning, public relations, or a related field.

• Some evening and weekend hours are required.
• Some travel may be required (approximately 10%).
• Frequency of standing, walking, sitting, and desk‑based computer tasks.
• Ability to lift and move objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a California Non‑commercial Class driver’s license and to operate a vehicle and golf cart.

Reasonable…