Events Manager

University of Massachusetts Amherst; Amherst (MA); Hybrid; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Massachusetts Amherst seeks an Events Manager to lead strategic and logistical planning for high-profile events in the Riccio College of Engineering. You will oversee multiple programs, ensuring alignment with the college's mission and prestige, and coordinate with campus partners.

This role requires strong communication, exceptional organization, and the ability to manage budgets and on-site production across a hybrid work arrangement.

Qualifications

• Associate’s Degree and at least five (5) years of relevant experience in event planning, event marketing or project management.
• Bachelor’s degree and at least three (3) years of relevant experience, or a Master’s degree and at least one (1) year.
• Proven ability to work cooperatively with individuals across all levels of the organization.

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage plans for many events, including large-scale ceremonies and symposia.
• Coordinate strategy, timelines, budgets, and stakeholder engagement across the college.
• Oversee on-site production, vendor coordination, and schedule adherence at events.
• Maintain event pages, track feedback, and implement improvements for future programs.
• Collaborate with campus IT, safety, and operations to ensure accessibility and safety.

Skills

Strong communication

Interpersonal skills

Teamwork

Problem-solving

Education

Associate’s Degree + 5+ years experience

Bachelor’s degree + 3+ years

Master’s degree + 1 year

Tools

Outlook/Google Calendar

Word/Docs

Excel/Sheets

Job description

Job Summary

The Events Manager is responsible for the strategic and logistical management of high-profile special meetings and events held by the Riccio College of Engineering (COE). They ensure all events promote a positive image and reflect the brand, values, and culture of the college and university, enhancing its stature and raising its visibility particularly to outside constituents. They provide event planning expertise and oversee details and execution of multiple programs and events simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.

Title

Events Manager

Executive Area

Academic Affairs

College/School/MBU

Engineering

Department

Dean - Engineering

Work Location

Amherst

Schedule

Full Time

Work Arrangement

Hybrid

Essential Functions

• Develop, implement, and collaborate with others across the college on plans for numerous events, including complex, large‑scale events such as the college’s Senior Recognition Celebration, Outstanding Alumni Awards ceremony, Graduate Research Symposium, Destination Days, and the Tang Endowed Lecture.
• Manage multiple programs and events simultaneously, focusing on strategy, goals, timeline, impact, budget, engagement, and follow‑up. Make recommendations as needed to ensure that the college’s mission, goals, and objectives are met.
• Create systems and procedures to enhance and streamline the event management process. Maintain the college’s events page. Regularly evaluate the success of events and make changes as necessary, paying attention to the suggestions of faculty, staff, students, or other event attendees. Generate ideas for new events to help the college meet its strategic goals.
• Serve as the on‑site production manager at assigned events or activities. Oversee proper event execution, including set‑up and breakdown, addressing urgent issues, and creating an intentionally inclusive atmosphere. Ensure that volunteers, student staff, and participants adhere to the event schedule. Work closely with selected vendors to ensure adherence to contractual agreements and the success of event.
• Liaise directly with college leadership to ensure proper execution of high‑profile college‑level events. Scout and reserve internal and external event space as needed. Ensure proper scheduling and staffing. Oversee the ordering of appropriate food and beverages, paying particular attention to event theme and the dietary needs of the audience. Manage inventory of necessary event supplies.
• Schedule and supervise event rehearsals, as needed. Organize and train volunteers, faculty, and students to support the execution and success of certain large‑scale events. Prepare and disseminate briefings to college leadership and faculty/staff participants on event logistics and their individual role requirements.
• Serve as a college resource on proper execution and details of event planning to ensure adherence to established protocols and practices, including information on venues, layouts, catering/vendor options. Monitor the condition of college meeting spaces and alert the building coordinator when repairs are needed or janitorial issues need to be addressed.
• Coordinate as needed with campus IT, University Police, Amherst EMTs, UMass Parking Services, and Disability Services to ensure safety and accessibility of events. Obtain necessary permits.
• Develop and monitor event budgets. Collaborate with the college’s business office on vendor options, contract negotiations, and proper invoicing. Keep detailed and accurate records of all expenses. Recommend ways to control costs so that each event stays within budget constraints.
• Exercise judgment and demonstrate poise in problem solving for unforeseen and undesirable situations that may impact event planning and implementation. Provide legendary hospitality for all stakeholders.

Other Functions

• Perform related duties as assigned or required to meet college or university goals and objectives.
• Understand responsibilities with respect to conflicts of interest and behave in ways consistent with both law and university policy.
• Contribute toward creating a positive and respectful workplace defined by personal and professional competence, integrity, and collaboration.

Minimum Qualifications

• Associate’s Degree and at least five (5) years of relevant experience in event planning, event marketing or project management; or a Bachelor's degree and at least three (3) years of relevant experience; or a Master’s degree and at least one (1) year of relevant experience.
• Proven ability to work cooperatively and effectively with individuals across all levels of the organization and to maintain productive and professional relationships.
• Ability to independently set priorities, plan, organize, and direct multiple concurrent projects or tasks. Ability to develop and move strategic agendas forward.
• Ability to utilize independent judgment and manage sensitive and/or confidential information with discretion.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to work well in teams.
• Ability to remain calm during high‑pressure events and during a crisis. Problem‑solving skills to quickly resolve issues as they occur. Willingness to go beyond the call of duty to ensure guest satisfaction.
• Strong computer skills including at least intermediate expertise with Outlook or Google Calendar; Microsoft Word or Google Docs; Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working within a higher education or non‑profit environment.
• Experience with marketing events.

Additional Details

Many events involve high‑impact visitors such as state and federal government officials, university leadership, corporate leaders, or distinguished alumni. The success of these events can have a significant impact on research funding, strategic partnerships, and the future of the College.

Working Conditions

Work is performed in a standard office or indoor university environment and involves minimal physical exertion.

Work Schedule and Work Arrangement

Monday‑Friday within standard working hours. Some night and weekend hours are required.

This position has the opportunity for a hybrid work schedule, which is defined by the University as an arrangement where an employee’s work is regularly performed at a location other than the campus workspace for a portion of the week. As this position falls within the Professional Staff Union, it is subject to the terms and conditions of the Professional Staff Union collective bargaining agreement.

Salary Information

Pay Grade: PSSAP Grade 26

Click here to view the Professional Staff Hiring Ranges.

Special Instructions for Applicants

Along with application, please submit a resume. References will be checked at the finalist stage; please be prepared to provide contact information for three (3) professional references.

This position will remain open for the time period required by any applicable collective bargaining agreement and will continue until a suitable candidate pool is identified. Interested applicants are strongly encouraged to apply early.