Job Description Summary
Organization's Summary Statement:
The mission of the Office of Special Events is to provide consultation and execution of presidential and significant advancement events for the University of Maryland. In addition, the Office of Special Events is a resource for the campus regarding event strategy and best practices. The team of nine people, provides comprehensive event production to ensure seamless execution and memorable experiences. We harness the power of our institutional knowledge of the University of Maryland and event management to deliver strategic, impactful events.
The Program Manager will collaborate with event managers to plan and execute events, as well as manage assigned events independently. This individual will be onsite for designated events, and correspond with university leadership, alumni, donors, campus partners, and vendors as appropriate.
The Program Manager will independently conceptualize, plan and execute assigned University-wide distinguished events for the President's Office and University Relations. Duties include but are not limited to; determining and executing event objectives, managing event budgets, vendor negotiation and selection, managing event production and related projects, planning and management of onsite event logistics, staff, and vendors. Customer service responsibilities will include registration site development and maintenance, sending invitations, tracking RSVPs, answering the phone, responding to emails, and communicating in person.
This individual will execute event planning including: registration, scheduling, crafting and submitting Request for Proposal (RFP) to vendors, collecting, reviewing and negotiating contracts, arranging site visits, vendor correspondence, and menu/decor research and selection. The Program Manager must have the availability to work evenings and weekends throughout the year, be able to travel up to 5% of the time, and be able to lift at least 40 lbs.
Preferences
-Experience with formal events between 0-500 guests.
-Experience with large events (over 1,000 guests) such as Commencement, sporting events, trade shows, etc.
-Experience with logistics, marketing and collateral design tools, i.e. Canva, Adobe, Cvent, Social Tables, Google suite.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
-Excellent interpersonal and organizational skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community are necessary.
-Exceptional attention to detail and superior customer service skills.
-Experience in meeting tight deadlines, juggling multiple responsibilities, and initiating and maintaining professional relationships.
-Ability to maintain confidentiality.
-Strong organizational skills.
-Must be able to work independently and in a team environment.
-Proficient in Microsoft Office
Physical Demands:
Traditional office environment, with an assigned desk space. Will be required to work evenings and weekends as necessary. 10% travel is required.
Licenses/ Certifications: N/A
Minimum Qualifications
Education: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.
Experience: Three (3) years of professional event planning experience.
Other: Additional work experience as defined above may be substituted on a year for year basis for up to four (4) years of the required education.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES:
Knowledge of event and conference planning.
Skill in oral and written communication.
Skill in the use of Microsoft Office products.
Ability to multitask and prioritize assignments.
Ability to multitask while demonstrating a commitment to customer service and sensitivity to a culturally and ethnically diverse community.
Additional Job Details
Required Application Materials: Resume and Cover Letter
Best Consideration Date: 07/15/2025
Posting Close Date: NA
Open Until Filled: Yes
Job Risks
Not Applicable to This Position
Financial Disclosure Required
No
Department
VPUR-People and Engagement
Worker Sub-Type
Staff Regular
Salary Range
$65,000-$72,000
For more information on Regular Exempt benefits, select this link.
Background Checks
Offers of employment are contingent on completion of a background check. Information reported by the background check will not automatically disqualify anyone from employment. Before any adverse decision, the finalist will have an opportunity to provide information to the University regarding disclosable background check information. The University reserves the right to rescind the offer of employment or otherwise decline or terminate employment if the information reported by the background check is deemed incompatible with the position, regardless of when the background check is completed.
Employment Eligibility
The successful candidate must complete employment eligibility verification (on Form I-9) by presenting documents that establish identity and work authorization within the timeframe required by federal immigration law, and where applicable, to demonstrate renewed employment authorization. Failure to complete employment eligibility verification or reverification within the timeframe set forth by law may result in suspension or termination of employment.
EEO Statement
The University of Maryland, College Park is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment. Please read the University’s Equal Employment Opportunity Statement of Policy.
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