Senior Event Planner

Under the general direction of the Director of Special Events, the Senior Event Planner is responsible for planning, coordinating, and executing a broad range of university events that advance San José State University's strategic priorities. Lead the planning, coordination, and execution of university events of varying size and complexityDevelop comprehensive event plans, project timelines, production schedules, run-of-show documents, and logistical plansCoordinate venues, catering, audiovisual services, rentals, décor, entertainment, transportation, security, parking, registration platforms, data analytics, and other event servicesCollaborate with university departments to understand event objectives and develop event strategies that support institutional prioritiesManage event budgets, contracts, vendor relationships, and purchasing processesEnsure events reflect university branding, hospitality standards, accessibility requirements, and risk management practicesProvide on-site event leadership, including setup, execution, troubleshooting, and event breakdownEvaluate event outcomes and recommend improvements for future programsBuild and maintain collaborative relationships with campus departments, university leadership, faculty, staff, students, volunteers, sponsors, donors, alumni, and external partnersCoordinate planning meetings and communicate project timelines, responsibilities, and event expectationsWork collaboratively with Strategic Communications and Marketing, as well as other campus partners, to support event communications and promotional activitiesServe as a primary liaison between event stakeholders and service providers to ensure successful event executionIdentify opportunities to improve operational efficiency, customer service, and event planning processesAssist with planning and operational support for the university's commencement ceremonies and related eventsMaintain event records, planning documents, contracts, invoices, and reports General awareness of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), and a willingness to develop skills in their appropriate, responsible, and ethical use in a higher education environment, consistent with institutional policies and practicesExtensive knowledge of event planning principles, project management, logistics, and hospitality practicesAbility to independently manage multiple complex projects simultaneouslyExcellent organizational and time management skillsStrong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skillsAbility to establish and maintain effective working relationships with stakeholdersStrong customer service orientationAbility to exercise sound judgment and solve problems in dynamic environmentsExcellent skills managing vendors, contracts, and event budgetsProficiency with Microsoft Office and event management technologiesAbility to analyze operational needs and implement process improvementsAbility to work evenings, weekends, and occasional holidays as required to support university eventsAbility to communicate with constituents in a professional and respectful manner Failure to satisfactorily complete the background check may affect the continued employment of a current CSU employee who was offered the position on a contingent basis. Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, and certain other federal and state laws, prohibit discrimination on the basis of sex in all education programs and activities operated by the university (both on and off campus).