Michigan State University (MSU) is a premier public research university known for its commitment to innovation, academic excellence, and community engagement. Located in East Lansing, Michigan, MSU offers a vibrant campus environment with a strong emphasis on research, education, and outreach programs that serve both the university and the wider global community. The MSU Horticulture Gardens, a key part of its campus, is a renowned venue that combines the beauty of nature with educational and community-oriented events. These gardens not only provide a serene setting for visitors but also serve as a valuable resource for horticultural education and community engagement. The university values diversity, inclusivity, and equal opportunity for all its employees and students, fostering an environment where creativity and collaboration thrive. MSU offers a dynamic work environment, competitive compensation, and comprehensive benefits designed to support the professional and personal growth of its employees.
The Event Venue Manager position at the MSU Horticulture Gardens plays a pivotal role in orchestrating both private rental events and garden-hosted programs. This full-time role is responsible for the seamless organization and management of a variety of events, from weddings and private gatherings to educational offerings and seasonal celebrations such as the Volunteer Dinner and Holiday Celebration. The Event Venue Manager acts as the primary point of contact for clients, ensuring that every event is executed with precision and attention to detail. Responsibilities include providing facility coordination and on-site management during events, conducting sales tours with prospective clients, securing and processing payments, and managing contracts to reflect accurate and up-to-date information. Additionally, this role requires close communication with clients and vendors throughout the event planning process to ensure all logistical elements meet expectations.
The manager is also charged with developing event layouts tailored to client needs and managing the logistics, agendas, and layouts of garden-hosted events. This entails arranging speakers, handling travel plans, marketing and communication efforts, and supporting the solicitation of sponsors, vendors, and in-kind donations. Financial oversight, including budget preparation, revenue and expense reconciliation, and payment processing, forms a significant part of the role. Beyond event management, this position contributes to the promotion and marketing of the MSU Horticulture Gardens by designing and developing diverse promotional materials such as website content, social media updates, brochures, advertisements, banners, newsletters, and other outreach documents. The Event Venue Manager also supervises student and temporary employees and oversees the membership and commemorative brick programs.
This role requires a professional with a strong foundation in event coordination and marketing, inventory management skills, and the ability to manage multiple stakeholder relationships effectively. Candidates should possess excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills to foster positive client and vendor interactions and deliver outstanding event experiences. The position operates primarily during a standard 8 to 5 schedule, with flexibility to work evenings and weekends during event periods. Applicants must adhere to MSU’s Employee Driver Certification Policy, including possessing a valid vehicle operator's license. This is an excellent opportunity for a detail-oriented and proactive individual to contribute to a prestigious university setting while enhancing the prominence of the MSU Horticulture Gardens through innovative event management and effective promotional strategies.
education equivalent to a four-year college degree in public relations, communications, business, hospitality management or related field
one to three years of experience in event management and marketing including planning and managing special events
proficiency with word processing, database, spreadsheet, desktop publishing, and presentation software
knowledge of payment processing software
valid vehicle operator's license with eligibility under MSU's driver certification policy
ability to work scheduled hours including some evenings and weekends
strong communication skills
ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
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