Conferences & Events Manager - New Haven, CT

Quinnipiac University is a prestigious private, coeducational institution located in Hamden, Connecticut, just 90 minutes north of New York City and two hours from Boston. With an enrollment of approximately 9,700 students, Quinnipiac offers over 100-degree programs across diverse disciplines including Business, Communications, Education, Computing & Engineering, Health Sciences, Law, Medicine, Nursing, and the College of Arts & Sciences. Notably, the university boasts 21 Division I sports teams with remarkable achievements such as the 2023 NCAA National Championship in ice hockey and national championships in women’s rugby. Recognized nationally for public opinion research and consistently ranked highly by major educational evaluators like U.S. News & World Report, Princeton Review, and the Wall Street Journal, Quinnipiac is widely respected for its outstanding graduation rates, career preparation, and innovative learning facilities. The university is committed to inclusive excellence and lifelong learning, guided by core community values while expanding academic offerings and facilities, including a newly developed South Quad.

The Conferences & Events Manager at Quinnipiac University plays a pivotal role in enhancing the university’s reputation as a premier conference and event destination. This full-time role located on the Mount Carmel campus in Hamden, CT, involves leadership in the planning, coordination, and execution of a diverse range of conferences, summer academic and athletic residential programs, and campus events. Serving as the primary client partner from contract signing through program completion, the manager ensures clients receive seamless, high-quality service that enhances satisfaction and fosters repeat business. Managing an extensive portfolio of over 75 events annually, including complex multi-day programs, the role requires balancing competing priorities with precision and proactive problem-solving.

Key responsibilities include comprehensive event and program management, such as advising clients on event flow and logistics, coordinating housing, dining, and facility use in collaboration with campus departments, and utilizing project management systems to ensure operational readiness. The Conferences & Events Manager also supports business development by assisting with inquiry intake, proposal development, contract preparation, and participant registration. Additionally, this role contributes to optimizing summer operations through strategic staffing and space management.

Leadership is equally important in this position, as the manager supervises and trains student and seasonal staff, providing operational leadership during events which often take place outside regular business hours, including evenings and weekends. The role demands excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to foster an inclusive, service-oriented team culture.

Quinnipiac seeks a collaborative and detail-oriented professional with a minimum of five years’ experience managing conferences or similar university programs, a strong background in project management, and excellent client relationship skills. Proficiency with Microsoft Office and event or facility scheduling platforms is essential. The position also values experience in contract administration, risk management, and auxiliary services. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the university’s ongoing growth and success in delivering exceptional event experiences while being part of a vibrant academic community committed to excellence, community engagement, and innovation.

Bachelor's degree in hospitality management, event management, business administration, or related field
minimum of 5 years of experience managing conferences, events, or summer programs in a university or comparable environment
demonstrated success managing multi-day residential programs and high-volume summer operations
strong project management, organizational, and problem-solving skills
excellent interpersonal and client relationship management abilities
proficiency in Microsoft Office and event, housing, or scheduling systems
ability to collaborate effectively with individuals from varied backgrounds
availability to work flexible hours including evenings, weekends, and extended hours during peak seasons
on-campus presence required during active programs and events
OysterLink - a focused job platform for restaurants and hotels.