Director of University Events (Washington)

Posting Title

Director of University Events

Overview

The Director, University Events will assist with the management of high-impact and special University events including, but not limited to Commencement, groundbreaking ceremonies, ribbon cuttings and dedications, honorary degree ceremonies, university holiday events and other annual and one-time University gatherings. The director will work closely with the Office of the President to coordinate functions requested by the president that are considered major university events. The director will serve as an events protocol / etiquette resource to the university community (i.e. invitation wording and forms of address, flag protocol for events, event program development and coordination of the president's event attendance and participation with the Office of the President). The director will provide expertise and guidance to those both within the university community and external guests to assist in the successful and efficient planning and execution of meetings and events occurring on campus. The director will provide planning tools to internal and external event planners and ensure that information is current and accurate, providing guidance and education to members of the university community.

The projected salary or hourly pay range for this position which represents the full range of anticipated compensation is : $75,000-$80,000.

Responsibilities

• Event Planning and Execution : Lead the planning and execution of high-impact university events such as Commencement, presidential functions, and dedication ceremonies.
• Collaborate with key departments, including University Advancement and Admissions, to support their critical development and recruitment events.
• Staff Supervision and Development : Recruit, hire, train, and supervise two professional staff members. Foster a collaborative environment focused on professional growth and mentorship.
• Client and Vendor Management : Serve as a primary point of contact for internal and external clients, coordinating with campus service providers (e.g., catering, public safety) and managing relationships with external vendors to ensure seamless event execution.
• Protocol and Policy : Act as the university's subject matter expert on event protocol, etiquette, and best practices. Develop, implement, and maintain event guidelines, checklists, and policies to ensure a consistent standard of service.
• Campus Resource and Collaboration : Serve on university committees, advise leadership on the effective use of campus spaces, and support special projects and Board of Trustees meetings as needed.

Qualifications