Event Manager

$48,200 - $54,000/Yr

University Of Michigan - Ann Arbor, MI

Full-time - Mid Level

Ann Arbor, MI

Educational Services

About the position

The Event Manager at the University of Michigan plays a crucial role in overseeing the planning and execution of various events, including weddings, family gatherings, student activities, departmental functions, and social events. Reporting to the Assistant Director, this position allows for a significant degree of independent judgment and initiative within established guidelines. The manager will collaborate with internal and external clients, as well as service providers, to ensure that all logistical aspects of events are meticulously managed. This includes coordinating dining, catering, facilities, housing, and registration services, ensuring that every detail is attended to for a successful event. In addition to operational responsibilities, the Event Manager will also handle financial aspects, including the creation and execution of program budgets, authorizing payments for services, and assisting with the client billing process. The role requires a proactive approach to client inquiries and involves working closely with the sales team to optimize space occupancy during peak seasons. The manager will also be expected to stay informed about market trends and assist in the development of bid proposals and contracts for both new and returning business. The position also entails participation in various committees and work teams within the Conferences & Events division and the Division of Student Affairs. Continuous professional development and training opportunities are encouraged, and the manager will be expected to assist onsite during events as needed. The role demands flexibility, as early mornings, evenings, and weekends may be required, along with the ability to manage multiple projects under pressure while maintaining high standards of accuracy and productivity.

Responsibilities

• Manage the planning and execution of assigned programs, including scheduling and monitoring of all logistical and support service arrangements.
• Manage planning and execution of assigned weddings, family, student, departmental and social events.
• Collaborate effectively with service providers to secure necessary services on campus, and work with outside service providers on behalf of clients.
• Negotiate on behalf of clients and engage services of campus and non-campus services providers to support programs.
• Maintain program data in event management software; exercise diligence in updating program confirmations and ensure signatures and funds are received within appropriate timelines.
• Assist and provide other support to conference operations as assigned.
• Assist onsite for programs as assigned by Associate Director of Operations and as dictated by client contract.
• Accountable for creation and execution of program budgets.
• Authorize payments for materials, services, and other event related expenses.
• Assist with the client billing process (audit and approve billing).
• Respond to inquiries from returning clients regarding the use of facilities and services for conferences; log event details in event management database.
• Work with the sales team to ensure optimized summer space occupancy.
• Assist with the development of bid proposals and budgets, and contracts for new and returning business; process executable contracts.
• Serve on various committees and work teams as requested.
• Attend and participate in staff training and professional development opportunities.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree and a minimum of 2 years of event management experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Excellent partnering skills and initiative experience including the ability to work in cooperation with staff, meet deadlines, and demonstrate excellent interpersonal skills.
• Working knowledge and proven experience with Microsoft Office Suite (to include Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and Google Suite.
• Ability to work under pressure and handle multiple projects with proven accuracy, productivity, and high success rates.

Nice-to-haves

• Wedding planning experience.
• Experience in or strong familiarity with higher education.
• Experience in conference planning.
• EMS, Social Tables or other event management software experience.