Manager, Event Planning

Note for Current UM Employees

Current employees must apply internally via ConnectU > connectu.olemiss.edu

The University of Mississippi

"The University of Mississippi — fondly referred to as Ole Miss — stands as a premier public research institution with a proud legacy of academic distinction. We are devoted to nurturing a vibrant, inclusive community where every member — student, faculty, and staff — can achieve their fullest potential.”

Department Summary

The Division of Outreach and Continuing Education is comprised of ten departments and more than 100 employees. Our mission is to provide innovative and accessible pathways to academic, personal, and professional enhancement for a diverse body of learners through collaboration with our community, regional, and national partners.

The Division is guided by core values of integrity, quality, and efficiency. The Division of Outreach is also committed to developing and delivering forward-thinking educational opportunities that enrich lives through exploration, engagement, and transformation.

Please visit www.outreach.olemiss.edu for further information about the division and our program.

Role Specifications

Below you will find classification and compensation information.  For additional details behind the University of Mississippi classification system please visit Human Resource Compensation Page

Family -  Facilities Operations

Sub-Family - Events Operations

Career Track / Level - M2

Grade - 8

Role Summary

Manages daily operations of events, including monitoring the budget and supervising event planning staff to ensure that operations run efficiently, economically, and in line with institutional and organizational policies and conference guidelines.

Responsible for overseeing the coordination, execution, and evaluation of events to ensure that they run smoothly. This role will involve managing accounts receivables, accounts payables, budgeting, supervision of full-time staff, student workers, collaboration with internal and external stakeholders. Must be able to develop event strategies, handle logistics regarding scheduling, venue setup, vendor coordination and technology needs, as well as providing exceptional customer service to clients and attendees. Having strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills are required to be successful in this role.

Examples of Work Performed

• Plans, coordinates, and oversees the successful execution of a wide range of university-sponsored events, including conferences, workshops, banquets, and meetings.
• Supervises a team of professional event coordinators and student workers, providing direction, training, and ongoing support to ensure high standards of service and event execution.
• Serves as the liaison for internal departments and external stakeholders, guiding them through the planning process and ensuring all event needs are met. 
• Develops room setup diagrams and logistics plans tailored to each event’s requirements, ensuring compliance with university policies, safety codes, and accessibility standards.
• Coordinates with campus partners (e.g., catering, facilities, IT, parking, custodial) to align event logistics and deliver seamless support services.
• Coordinates with off-campus vendors to manage the inventory of supplies needed to deliver services to our campus partners and any other stakeholders that utilize the space.
• Monitors and manages event budgets, prepares estimates and billing documentation, and ensures cost-effective use of resources.
• Responds to last-minute changes or on-site issues with professionalism and efficiency, maintaining client satisfaction and event integrity. 
• Evaluates event outcomes, gathers feedback, and recommends improvements to enhance service delivery and operational effectiveness. 

Essential Functions

These essential functions include, but are not limited to, the following.  Additional essential functions may be identified and included by the hiring department.

1. Establishes and executes day-to-day operational functions and goals of events to align with existing strategy.
2. Identifies, proposes, and implements new or revised unit operational policies and procedures.
3. Assists in maintaining the budget, approves expenditures and coordinates resources and services.
4. Establishes and sustains relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
5. Coordinates and makes recommendations in the bidding process and contractual services agreements.

Minimum Education/Experience

Education: Bachelor's Degree

Experience: (3) Three Years Experience Including Supervisory Experience

Substitution Statement: An equivalent combination of related experience and education may be considered for this role. Substitutions of the required experience or education will be assessed on a 1:1 substitution basis.

Preferred Qualifications

A Bachelor’s degree preferred in the area Hospitality, Event Management, Higher Education, or a related field. The candidate must have a minimum of 3 years experience in event planning or a related field. Must also have demonstrated 3 years of supervisory experience, including training and managing staff. Having excellent organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills are required. Proficiency in scheduling and event management systems; knowledge of audio/visual and logistical coordination is preferred. Also, having the ability to work a flexible schedule which could include early mornings, evenings, and weekends. 

A resume and cover letter are both required to apply for this position. 

EEO Statement

The University of Mississippi provides equal opportunity in any employment practice, education program, or education activity to all qualified persons. The University complies with all applicable laws regarding equal opportunity and does not unlawfully discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based upon race, color, gender, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, national origin, ethnicity, citizenship, age, disability, military status, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other legally protected status.

Minimum Physical Requirements

Physical Requirements:  These physical requirements are not exhaustive, and additional job-related physical requirements may be added to these by individual agencies on an as needed basis. 

Corrective devices may be used to meet physical requirements.

Physical Exertion:  The incumbent may be required to lift up to approximately 10 pounds.

Vision:  Requirements of this job include close vision. Speaking/Hearing: Ability to give and receive information through speaking and listening.

Motor Coordination:  While performing the duties of this job, the incumbent is frequently required to talk and hear; and use hands to finger, handle, or feel. The incumbent is periodically required to sit. The incumbent is occasionally required to stand; walk; and reach with hands and arms

Interview Requirements: Any candidate who is called for an interview must notify the Department of Equal Opportunity/Regulatory Compliance in writing of any reasonable accommodation needed prior to the date of the interview.

Background Check Statement

The University of Mississippi is committed to providing a safe campus community. UM conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check.