Events Manager

Job Description

For over 160 years, the University of Washington has been a hub for learning, innovation, problem solving and community building. Supporting this legacy and important public mission—with the goal of making the UW the world’s greatest public university, as measured by positive impact—guides everything we do in University Advancement. Bringing together development; alumni and stakeholder engagement; marketing and communications; and advancement operations, we advance the UW’s impact by developing meaningful connections that foster pride, advocacy and philanthropic support.  

The mission of University Marketing & Communications (UMAC) is to lead branding, marketing and communications efforts that advance the reputation, resources and relationships of the University. This starts with creating a culture of belonging within our organization that values the diverse experiences and expertise of our team members, allowing everyone to thrive and to contribute their unique talents as we strive to achieve our shared goals.

University Marketing & Communications has an exciting opening for an Events Manager. This is a full-time permanent position.

The University Marketing & Communications (UMAC) Events Team creates exceptional live experiences that elevate the University of Washington’s vision, brand and reputation. The Events Manager plays a key role in delivering these high-impact events, leading the planning and execution of a diverse portfolio that includes dinners, receptions and lectures featuring senior leaders, donors, alumni and community partners.

Working closely with stakeholders across campus, this role translates institutional goals into engaging, memorable experiences while balancing competing priorities in high-visibility settings. Ideal for an experienced event professional, this position offers the opportunity to grow expertise within a collaborative team dedicated to excellence, creativity and seamless execution.

What You Will Do

Event Management (40%)

• Lead the planning and execution of a portfolio of high-impact events, including university-wide programs, donor and stewardship events and community experiences.

• Manage projects from concept to completion, developing timelines, facilitating meetings, tracking progress and coordinating cross-functional teams.

• Design engaging event experiences aligned with the UW’s brand, including concept development, layouts and overall event plans.

• Oversee event logistics including budgets, vendor selection and contracts, venues, transportation, catering, security and guest experience.

• Partner with campus stakeholders to support audience engagement and integrated communications.

• Direct on-site event execution, managing vendors, staff, volunteers and event setup while resolving issues with professionalism and agility.

Production Management (30%)

• Support large-scale, complex events by partnering with senior leads on production strategy and infrastructure.

• Develop and execute production plans, including schedules, staffing and vendor logistics.

• Coordinate operations with campus partners and oversee technical needs, including lighting, audio/visual and power.

• Recruit and lead production assistants and volunteers.

Project Work & Administration (30%)

• Manage guest services and coordination for select high-profile event series, including executive-level guest experiences, RSVP tracking, seating, logistics and event-day hosting support.

• Lead key projects and workstreams within large-scale events, including project management, logistics and vendor coordination, while managing vendor sourcing processes such as RFP creation and proposal evaluation.

• Maintain team operations and resources, including tools, calendars, documentation and event supplies inventory.

• Share resources and best practices across the UW events network and support additional team priorities as needed.

Required Qualifications 

To be considered for this opportunity, your application must demonstrate that you meet the minimum qualifications and additional qualifications listed below. Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification and/or registration.

Minimum Qualifications

Applicants who do not meet these qualifications will not be forwarded to the Hiring Department.

Bachelor's degree AND three (3) years of experience in event and/or production management or related field.

Preferred Qualifications

• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage a variety of stakeholders.

• Proven ability to manage multiple concurrent projects in fast-paced environments.

• Extensive project management expertise, including budget oversight and vendor management.

• Experience working in higher education, advancement, or donor engagement settings.

• Familiarity with event and project planning tools such as Asana, Social Tables and Cvent.

• Experience producing high-visibility events involving executive leadership and donor or stakeholder audiences.

What You Can Expect

• Hybrid-work schedule with two days in the office and three days eligible for telework per week, based on business needs.

• Ability to work evening and weekend hours, as necessary, on short or limited notice. 

• Cubicle/open workspace environment that may result in higher noise levels and visual distractions.

• Ability to work all home football games in the fall, in addition to evenings and weekends as needed.

• Must have a valid Washington State driver’s license and access to reliable transportation for local travel, with the ability and willingness to drive to and from events and across campus as needed, including occasional travel when required.

• Ability to lift 20 pounds regularly and up to 40 pounds occasionally for event setup and tear down.

• During Events (from setup to tear down) or on Event days:

  • Ability to stand 4 or more hours continuously.

  • Ability to walk 4 or more hours continuously.

  • Ability to work greater than a 10-hour day

Additional Application Requirement

This recruitment requires a cover letter. Applications that do not include a cover letter will not be forwarded to the hiring department. Please address the following in your cover letter:

• Outline your qualifications, relevant experience and suitability for the position.

• Include your interest in the role and working for the University of Washington.

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Compensation, Benefits and Position Details

Pay Range Minimum:

$78,240.00 annual

Pay Range Maximum:

$80,004.00 annual

Other Compensation:

-

Benefits:

For information about benefits for this position, visit https://www.washington.edu/jobs/benefits-for-uw-staff/

Shift:

First Shift (United States of America)

Temporary or Regular?

This is a regular position

FTE (Full-Time Equivalent):

100.00%

Union/Bargaining Unit:

Not Applicable

About the UW 

Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives – on our campuses, in our state and around the world.  

UW employees bring their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier world. In return, they enjoy outstanding benefits, opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty. 

Our Commitment 

The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81.

To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or [email protected]. 

Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law.