Events Manager

Northern Arizona University - Flagstaff, AZ

Full-time - Mid Level

Hybrid - Flagstaff, AZ

Educational Services

About the position

The Events Manager (EM) plays a crucial role in the Arizona GEAR UP 2019-26 grant, focusing on advanced event planning, coordination, and management. This position is responsible for leading the execution of events that promote equity and access to postsecondary education for underrepresented populations. The EM will work closely with grant partners and manage various aspects of event logistics, marketing, and evaluation to ensure successful outcomes.

Responsibilities

• Lead the planning and execution of the GEAR UP West Conferences.
• Manage the delivery and evaluation of hosting/participating in GEAR UP West Conferences.
• Collaborate with vendors to develop a theme, design promotional materials, and set the overall tone of the event.
• Research and select appropriate venues while ensuring they meet the organizer's requirements.
• Coordinate with venue management to arrange necessary facilities such as parking, security, and catering.
• Negotiate with suppliers and vendors to source additional services for events.
• Oversee event budget and manage fund allocation for events.
• Identify potential risks associated with events and develop strategies to mitigate them.
• Lead the planning, execution, delivery, and evaluation of an annual convening of GEAR UP schools and grant-project partners.
• Advise and support project staff with their event needs, including trainings and other grant-related events.
• Coordinate all aspects of events on event days, ensuring smooth operations and troubleshooting issues as they arise.
• Collect feedback from attendees and analyze it to evaluate event success and identify areas for improvement.
• Develop and implement college access marketing strategies using traditional and social media.
• Write effectively to ensure clear communication and alignment with institutional mission and project priorities.
• Collaborate with subject matter experts and content contributors to achieve high-quality events.

Requirements

• Experience in event planning and management.
• Strong knowledge of college-going processes and systemic barriers faced by underrepresented populations.
• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders and partners.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in using social media and marketing strategies for event promotion.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience with grant-funded projects.
• Familiarity with educational institutions and their operations.
• Knowledge of evaluation methods for events.

Benefits

• Hybrid work environment allowing flexibility between on-site and remote work.
• Opportunities for professional development and networking.