Metropolitan State University of Denver
Associate Director of University Events
Metropolitan State University of Denver, Denver, Colorado, United States, 80285
Position
Associate Director of University Events – Metropolitan State University of Denver The Associate Director of University Events is an integral member of the Office of University Events (OUE), managing vendor-partner relationships and production of all signature event experiences strategically designed to elevate visibility and engage constituents while promoting the University’s mission and goals. This position leads all facets of signature high-level events, including logistics, operations and budgets; assists with strategic planning and the creation of annual goals and metrics. It is essential that this event planner possess excellent judgement, integrity, flexibility, creativity, a positive attitude and the ability to collaborate and consult. The Associate Director of University Events reports to the Executive Director of University Events within the University Advancement division. Responsibilities
Event Management and Execution – 70%: Lead the planning and execution for all highly visible, University-wide events and collaborative programming efforts including but not limited to Commencement, Homecoming, President’s Welcome Back, Howdy Rowdy BBQ, Holiday Fest, Roadrunners Who Soar, Presidential Fireside Chats and the President’s Speaker Series Foster collaborative, inclusive partnerships with university departments, community organizations, service providers, and vendors in support of initiatives, events and projects Oversee all aspects of the event experience including stage management, program timing, staffing, catering, audiovisual services, accommodations and seating coordination Direct other OUE team members on event support logistics and projects Develop goals and metrics to measure event success Support budget development and management for large and small university events Negotiate contracts with vendors, event sites and service providers; manage vendor relationships Prepare planning agendas and run-of-show materials for senior leaders and OUE team Conduct post-event analysis and reports to assess impact and opportunities for improvement Collaborate with the Associate Director of Event Marketing & Communication on look and feel across decor, signage and promotional materials Coordinate with the Associate Director of Audiovisual Operations to ensure technical programming aligns with vision and timing Commencement Leadership – 20%: Serve as the lead for all Commencement event operations including logistics, venue rental, volunteer management, graduate coordination and vendor contracts Chair of the Commencement Committee; assign and manage marshals, name readers and Big Voice Enforce ceremony protocol and guidelines; oversee Tassel graduation management software Manage internal and external partnerships related to Commencement; assist in creating the Commencement program and high-level communications Leadership and Management – 10%: Represent the OUE department on committees and task forces; guide event and operation logistics for events such as Roadrunners Who Soar, MLK Breakfast, Community Collab Summit and Homecoming Manage student internship program within the School of Hospitality focusing on recruitment, retention and training Provide guidance and strategy for 3rd party pop-up events Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in hospitality, event management, communication or related field Minimum five years’ experience in event management and customer service relations with progressive responsibilities Excellent customer service skills and a commitment to a service-focused environment Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize work, and adapt to change Budget development and management experience Excellent written and verbal communication skills Adaptability and resilience to thrive in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment Preferred qualifications: ability to foster collaborative relationships, work independently and in teams, proficiency with seating and floor plan tools (e.g., Social Tables or Smartdraw), and experience in university advancement, alumni relations or commencement We encourage you to apply even if you do not meet every preferred qualification. We are most interested in finding the candidate who will best contribute to the University. Schedule Information
Full-time, 40 hours per week Exempt; Hours: Monday – Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm; evenings and weekends for events required Hybrid schedule requiring in-person work on the Denver, CO campus with some remote work opportunities (subject to supervisor approval) Travel for events required Salary and Benefits
The anticipated hiring range is $75,000-$85,000. This position is paid monthly and is eligible for MSU Denver benefits. MSU Denver is required to provide a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this role and may consider a variety of factors in salary offers. How to Apply
Please apply by visiting our career site and searching for JR104473: https://www.msudenver.edu/careers/ Required documents for full consideration: Resume; Cover letter describing relevant job experiences and interest in the position. Professional references and transcripts may be requested from finalists. Important Dates
Applications accepted until position filled; priority given to applications received through September 29, 2025 at 11:59 PM MST. Compliance and Diversity
Background checks will be conducted on all finalists prior to employment. MSU Denver is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity, equity, and inclusion in all its forms. We encourage applications from individuals who help advance our commitment to equity and inclusion. Benefits summary and accommodations: The University offers comprehensive benefits, including medical, vision and dental, RTD pass, tuition reimbursement, and more. Reasonable accommodations are available during the application process. Posting Representative: Sophia J Montano; Email: smontan7@msudenver.edu
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Associate Director of University Events – Metropolitan State University of Denver The Associate Director of University Events is an integral member of the Office of University Events (OUE), managing vendor-partner relationships and production of all signature event experiences strategically designed to elevate visibility and engage constituents while promoting the University’s mission and goals. This position leads all facets of signature high-level events, including logistics, operations and budgets; assists with strategic planning and the creation of annual goals and metrics. It is essential that this event planner possess excellent judgement, integrity, flexibility, creativity, a positive attitude and the ability to collaborate and consult. The Associate Director of University Events reports to the Executive Director of University Events within the University Advancement division. Responsibilities
Event Management and Execution – 70%: Lead the planning and execution for all highly visible, University-wide events and collaborative programming efforts including but not limited to Commencement, Homecoming, President’s Welcome Back, Howdy Rowdy BBQ, Holiday Fest, Roadrunners Who Soar, Presidential Fireside Chats and the President’s Speaker Series Foster collaborative, inclusive partnerships with university departments, community organizations, service providers, and vendors in support of initiatives, events and projects Oversee all aspects of the event experience including stage management, program timing, staffing, catering, audiovisual services, accommodations and seating coordination Direct other OUE team members on event support logistics and projects Develop goals and metrics to measure event success Support budget development and management for large and small university events Negotiate contracts with vendors, event sites and service providers; manage vendor relationships Prepare planning agendas and run-of-show materials for senior leaders and OUE team Conduct post-event analysis and reports to assess impact and opportunities for improvement Collaborate with the Associate Director of Event Marketing & Communication on look and feel across decor, signage and promotional materials Coordinate with the Associate Director of Audiovisual Operations to ensure technical programming aligns with vision and timing Commencement Leadership – 20%: Serve as the lead for all Commencement event operations including logistics, venue rental, volunteer management, graduate coordination and vendor contracts Chair of the Commencement Committee; assign and manage marshals, name readers and Big Voice Enforce ceremony protocol and guidelines; oversee Tassel graduation management software Manage internal and external partnerships related to Commencement; assist in creating the Commencement program and high-level communications Leadership and Management – 10%: Represent the OUE department on committees and task forces; guide event and operation logistics for events such as Roadrunners Who Soar, MLK Breakfast, Community Collab Summit and Homecoming Manage student internship program within the School of Hospitality focusing on recruitment, retention and training Provide guidance and strategy for 3rd party pop-up events Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in hospitality, event management, communication or related field Minimum five years’ experience in event management and customer service relations with progressive responsibilities Excellent customer service skills and a commitment to a service-focused environment Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize work, and adapt to change Budget development and management experience Excellent written and verbal communication skills Adaptability and resilience to thrive in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment Preferred qualifications: ability to foster collaborative relationships, work independently and in teams, proficiency with seating and floor plan tools (e.g., Social Tables or Smartdraw), and experience in university advancement, alumni relations or commencement We encourage you to apply even if you do not meet every preferred qualification. We are most interested in finding the candidate who will best contribute to the University. Schedule Information
Full-time, 40 hours per week Exempt; Hours: Monday – Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm; evenings and weekends for events required Hybrid schedule requiring in-person work on the Denver, CO campus with some remote work opportunities (subject to supervisor approval) Travel for events required Salary and Benefits
The anticipated hiring range is $75,000-$85,000. This position is paid monthly and is eligible for MSU Denver benefits. MSU Denver is required to provide a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this role and may consider a variety of factors in salary offers. How to Apply
Please apply by visiting our career site and searching for JR104473: https://www.msudenver.edu/careers/ Required documents for full consideration: Resume; Cover letter describing relevant job experiences and interest in the position. Professional references and transcripts may be requested from finalists. Important Dates
Applications accepted until position filled; priority given to applications received through September 29, 2025 at 11:59 PM MST. Compliance and Diversity
Background checks will be conducted on all finalists prior to employment. MSU Denver is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity, equity, and inclusion in all its forms. We encourage applications from individuals who help advance our commitment to equity and inclusion. Benefits summary and accommodations: The University offers comprehensive benefits, including medical, vision and dental, RTD pass, tuition reimbursement, and more. Reasonable accommodations are available during the application process. Posting Representative: Sophia J Montano; Email: smontan7@msudenver.edu
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