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University of Southern Mississippi

Event Manager

University of Southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg, Mississippi, United States, 39400

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The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Event Manager.

Location: Hattiesburg 118 College Drive Hattiesburg, Mississippi, 39406-0001 United States

Division: Office of the President

Position Type: Staff

Employment Status: Full Time

Grant Funded: No

Pay Grade: E11

Posting Close Date: Open Until Filled

Special Instructions to Applicants Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B).

Job Summary The Event Manager plays a key role in elevating the visibility and impact of the University of Southern Mississippi through the strategic planning and execution of high-profile events. This position manages all aspects of Ogletree House rentals, oversees major Alumni Association programs, and supports events hosted by the Office of the President. The University Event Manager ensures that each event aligns with institutional goals and provides meaningful engagement for alumni, donors, and campus stakeholders. This position represents the university with professionalism and serves as a central resource for exceptional event experiences.

Primary Job Duties and Responsibilities

Ogletree House Rental Management – Oversees all Ogletree House rental operations, including client communication, venue tours, event booking, contract coordination and invoicing, while serving as the primary liaison between the Alumni Association and external event managers to ensure smooth event execution.

Alumni Association Events – Plans and executes reunions, gameday activities, signature programs, and special events; coordinates logistics, marketing, registration and post-event reviews; and works with staff and volunteers to ensure alignment with alumni engagement and fundraising goals.

Presidential Events – Coordinates and executes receptions, dinners, donor events and special functions for the Office of the President by developing event plans and managing logistics to ensure high-quality experiences that reflect university standards.

Athletic Event Support – Assists with managing the President’s Suite during football season by serving as the gameday liaison and supports activities in the President’s baseball suite, as necessary, ensuring well-coordinated, professional event experiences.

Event Liaison – Represents the Office of the President in planning and coordinating major university or community events, providing guidance and support to ensure events align with institutional priorities and promote the university’s mission.

Minimum Qualifications Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Business, Marketing, Communications, Public Relations, General Studies or a related field; and five (5) years of experience in event management with oversight and execution responsibilities.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)

Knowledge of event planning and facility scheduling.

Familiarity with financial tracking and reporting.

Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities.

Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint) and database management systems including QuickBooks.

Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.

Ability to work independently, exercise discretion, and maintain confidentiality.

Preferred Qualifications Master’s degree from an accredited college or university in Business, Marketing, Communications, Public relations, General Studies or a related field. Experience with Salesforce CRM and/or Blackthorn Event.

About The University of Southern Mississippi Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community‑engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation’s leading research institutions.

Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology and economic development, among others.

We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such as computer engineering, information technology and ocean engineering. We’re developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation accredited in four major areas of the arts.

Home to the Golden Eagles, our student‑athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit www.usm.edu.

The University of Southern Mississippi is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. EOE/VETS/DISABILITY.

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