Event Manager

Conference & Event Services (CES) at the University of Michigan is a specialized department dedicated to providing comprehensive expertise in conference and event management to both internal university units and external clients. Annually, CES coordinates and oversees more than 15,000 diverse events, catering to a broad spectrum of needs including academic conferences, social events, student programs, and large-scale summer conferences. With over 200 summer conference groups and more than 100,000 summer bednights managed every year, CES plays a critical role in the university’s event operations, ensuring seamless logistics and exceptional client experiences. The department consistently achieves impressive sales revenue exceeding 14 million dollars annually, highlighting its vital contribution to the university's engagement and outreach efforts.

As part of this dynamic team, you will engage in meaningful event planning and management, supporting a wide variety of events across the campus and beyond. The department prides itself on delivering unparalleled service while operating within a complex and fast-paced higher education environment, making it an ideal place for professionals dedicated to excellence in event management.

The role of Event Manager at Conference & Event Services is pivotal in executing smooth and successful events by managing logistics, coordinating with service providers, and overseeing operational details from start to finish. Reporting to the Assistant Director, this position offers considerable autonomy to exercise independent judgment and initiative within established department guidelines. The Event Manager serves as the primary point of contact for internal and external clients and collaborates closely with service providers as well as student and support staff to ensure all event elements are flawlessly executed.

Key responsibilities include planning and implementing multiple event types such as weddings, student functions, departmental gatherings, and social events. Event Managers work hand-in-hand with the sales team to transition contracted clients into active programs, maintain up-to-date and accurate event data in management software, and assist with budget creation and billing processes. They are also responsible for negotiating service arrangements on behalf of clients, engaging both campus and non-campus vendors to secure necessary resources efficiently and cost-effectively. Additionally, the position requires an attendee presence at on-site events to provide hands-on support as needed.

The chosen candidate will demonstrate excellent interpersonal and communication skills, allowing for productive partnerships with staff, service providers, and clients. High-level organizational skills and the ability to handle multiple simultaneous projects under pressure are critical for success. Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite, Google Suite, and ideally event management software such as EMS or Social Tables is expected. Experience in higher education settings and conference planning will be advantageous.

This position offers a collaborative and supportive environment, fostering professional development and growth. The role occasionally requires work during weekends, early mornings, and evenings to meet event demands. Though primarily office-based requiring extended stationary periods, the role may also involve physical tasks such as moving event materials when necessary. Compensation is commensurate with qualifications, experience, and education.

Joining the University of Michigan’s Conference & Event Services team means becoming part of a dedicated department that champions diversity, inclusivity, and high-quality service delivery. Employees are encouraged to engage in ongoing training and professional development opportunities, contributing to an inclusive workplace culture that respects cultural, ethnic, and individual differences. The University of Michigan is committed to equal employment opportunity and fostering a supportive work environment for all personnel.

Bachelor's degree
Minimum of 2 years of event management experience or equivalent combination of education and experience
Ability to work in cooperation with staff
Ability to meet deadlines
Excellent interpersonal skills
Proven aptitude in handling and resolving details
Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
Working knowledge of Google Suite
Ability to work under pressure
Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously with proven accuracy and productivity
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