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PAF/Position Details

Position Title Director of Events and Conference Services

Position Status Full-Time

Base Pay $82,407

Job Description Summary

Under the direction of, and reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, the Director of Events and Conference Services is responsible to develop and execute sales strategies to achieve revenue targets. The Director will drive revenue by prospecting and fostering relationships with both internal constituents and external clients. The Director is responsible to provide oversight to the Meetings, Events and Conferences (MEC) department through the development and execution of a comprehensive operational plan for both internal and external customers.

Additionally, the Director is responsible for the overall vision, leadership and direction of the department, and MEC employees.

Responsibilities

Responsible to model the University Mission through dedicated job performance, service excellence to constituencies, respectful collaboration and active support of the University’s Mission and Catholic and Lasallian higher education.

The Director of Events and Conference Services will be responsible for:

Unit Leadership – 20%

• Hire, train, supervise, coach and evaluate staff to meet the needs of the business and ensure their continued professional development. Establish and maintain a healthy, inclusive and positive work environment. Communicate university and Meetings, Events and Conferences (MEC) policies and processes and ensure compliance.
• Develop and optimize unit policies, procedures, and systems to support continuous improvement of efficiency, effectiveness, productivity and profitability. Consult with university business operations, Office of Technology, and other university leaders to ensure all aspects of operations are in compliance.
• As the lead member of the MEC Team, participate in meetings and activities in support of university-wide initiatives and efforts as needed.

Finance and Operations – 20%

• Develop, monitor and manage the financial budget for the unit, including setting of annual sales targets.
• Provide direct accountability for P&L management including revenue, expenses, operating margin and overall profit loss.
• Collaborate with the business office to monitor and update financial performance and establish, enhance and utilize budgeting tools to enable forecasting and data analysis to guide financial decision making.
• Provide monthly and year-end financial reporting to the Chief Operating Officer.
• Oversee and manage all event operations including sales, contract development and execution for new and renewing contracts. Serve as primary point of contact. Continuously seek ways to maximize revenue potential through leasing unused or underutilized space.
• Collaborate with university departments such as facilities and campus police when necessary.

Sales – 60%

• Formulate a multi-faceted sales and business development plan to maximize conference and event partnerships, and meet or exceed revenue and profitability goals.
• Collaborate with Marketing and Communications Department on the development of communications, promotions and social media.
• Execute day-to-day sales operations including responding to sales inquiries, using continuous follow-up to convert prospects into bookings; conduct tours, write and manage proposals, and oversee contract development.
• Work closely with the rest of the MEC team to ensure a seamless transition from sales to execution. Provide an outstanding level of customer service to ensure client satisfaction and increase repeat bookings.

Perform all other duties and responsibilities as assigned to meet the evolving operational needs and priorities.

Minimum Qualifications

Prior related experience in events and conferences is required. Experience with contractual terms, restrictions and liabilities. Ability to make administrative/procedural decisions and judgments. Strong interpersonal and communication skills. Ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies. Knowledge and understanding of meeting and event planning principles, requirements, procedures, and available resources. Highly skilled in organizing resources and establishing priorities, facilities, technology and equipment. Ability to perform complex tasks and to prioritize multiple projects. Ability to use independent judgment and to manage and impart information to a range of clientele. Strong service orientation. Exceptional organization/time management skills. Good problem solving skills. Approachable and cooperative. Dependability and strong follow through on tasks. Ability to work both independently and as part of a team. Must be willing to work with flexible schedules involving evening, weekend and holiday hours.

Preferred Qualifications

- Professional experience in the hospitality industry, particularly in venue management, with at least two years in a leadership/supervisory role. Experience in a higher education venue is a plus.
- Thorough understanding of sales strategies and tactics with demonstrated success in sales and business development practices.
- Thorough knowledge of event planning and catering best practices.
- Experience with budgeting and financial management of a program or department.
- High degree of competence using Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, Adobe Acrobat.
- Experience/competence using social media platforms for business development.
- Knowledge of and established relationships in the local business community a plus.

Essential Duties

Work hours Full-time; must be willing to work with flexible schedules involving evening, weekend and holiday hours.

Posting Number S01784

Posting Date 09/01/2026

Open Until Filled No

Special Instructions Summary