Positio Title: Director of University Events (CS25-197)
Location: Edwardsville, IL
Apply Before: 00672
Department: Chancellor, Ofc of
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Description: Description
To build on a strong foundation of achievement and contribute to the realization of its ambitious institutional goals, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) invites applications for the position of Director of University Events (CS25-197). As a premier metropolitan university, SIUE is committed to advancing social and economic mobility while shaping the workforce of the future. Grounded in a comprehensive, broad-based education and enriched by hands-on research opportunities, SIUE equips its students with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in a global marketplace and positively impact their communities.
Reporting to the Chief of Staff, the Director of University Events will deliver first in class events that celebrate the University's mission and goals across all campus locations (Edwardsville, East St. Louis, Alton, and Belleville). They will ensure a flawless and top-notch guest experience at all VIP, chancellor-level and other assigned university-wide events. The Director will also establish policies and standards for all university events and work collaboratively with and provide guidance to other departments on campus hosting events. They will ensure that SIUE's events reflect optimal hospitality and uphold the exacting standards of the University, exhibiting the same level of quality that reflects SIUE's commitment to excellence, scholarly exchange, community engagement, and economic impact.
What You Will Do
- Design and deliver exceptional events that align with the University's mission, goals, and values.
- Plan and serve as the primary point of contact for event coordination and on-the-day execution for VIP, Chancellor-level, and university-wide events, including, but not limited to commencement, visits by government officials, SIU Board of Trustees meetings, appointments of new administrators, certain faculty/staff recognition events, a university speakers' series, and building related events, such as ground breakings, openings and dedications, etc., ensuring flawless execution and a top-tier guest experience.
- Develop and implement a comprehensive foundational framework of event planning strategies and protocols to guide the planning and execution of campus events. Serve as the campus resource for establishing and maintaining event standards while collaborating with university offices and external partners to ensure consistency, excellence, and alignment with SIUE's high standards of hospitality and mission across all university-sponsored events . Coordinate frequent event coordination meetings; develop and share rubrics for quality events.
- Collaborate with University Marketing and Communications to create and manage all digital and print marketing campaigns and communications for university wide events; ensure that all events and relevant communications uphold the university's brand, mission, and values.
- Evaluate the success of events, gather feedback, and make recommendations for future improvements. Ensure that the impact of events is effectively communicated to key internal and external stakeholders.
Minimum Acceptable Qualifications- Bachelor's degree
- 5 to 7 years of experience managing major events in any sector; thorough understanding of high-end guest services and creating memorable events for clients
Preferred Qualifications - Ten years of event production and management experience
- Experience facilitating events in higher education setting
- Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) or Certified Meeting Planner (CMP) certification desirable
The Ideal Candidate Will Have - A passion for event planning, with a keen eye for detail and a dedication to delivering extraordinary experiences.
- Proven ability to manage high-profile events with a focus on hospitality, quality, and precision.
- Strong collaboration and communication skills, with the ability to work seamlessly with both internal teams and external stakeholders.
- A deep understanding of the importance of representing SIUE's values through event execution.
Monday-Friday 8:00-4:30 (37.5 Hours Per Week)FLSA: Exempt
Supplemental Information Civil Service Information: Civil Service Application - FAQs Application Instructions: How to Apply - Step by Step Illinois Residency Requirement: Pursuant to the State Universities Civil Service System, out-of-state candidates must establish Illinois residency within 180 calendar days of the start date for this position. Illinois residency requires proof of a valid Illinois Driver's License or state of Illinois ID Card. Failure to produce the required documentation within 180 calendar days will result in immediate termination of employment.
Classification: State Universities Civil Service System Classification Number: 5009 - SUCSS Classification Title. For more information on Civil Service classifications, please visit the State Universities Civil Service System website at: https://www.sucss.illinois.gov/pages/classspec/default.aspx .
Veterans: Veterans who qualify for preference must provide proof of eligibility within ten (10) working days of submitting an application. The required proof of eligibility includes, at a minimum, a copy of the veteran's DD214/DD215 form (Department of Defense), NGB22 form (National Guard), or Discharge Orders or DD256 Discharge Certificate (Reserves). For help in determining the appropriate proof of eligibility to submit, please refer to the Guide for Veteran Document Verification.
Pre-Employment Screening: External candidates receiving a job offer must undergo pre-employment screening, including a criminal background check. For safety sensitive positions, a drug screen will also be required.
Work Authorization Information: This position does not offer work authorization sponsorship. International students at SIUE on F-1 or J-1 visas are not eligible for full-time or part-time civil service positions with permanent status. F-1 and J-1 visa holders must be enrolled full-time and can only apply for temporary part-time roles working 20 hours or less per week during spring and fall semesters, such as student worker positions, assistantships, and civil service extra help roles. SIUE is a state university, and it's important to highlight that benefits from state-sponsored plans may not be accessible to individuals on F1 or J1 visas.
Accommodation: If you are unable to utilize our online application system and need to request an accommodation, please reach out to us at 618-650-2190 or via email at: careerinfo@siue.edu
EEO Statement Southern Illinois University Edwardsville is an equal opportunity employer and thus prohibits discrimination against employees, applicants for employment and students on the basis of age, color, disability, marital status, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or veteran's status.
We value your interest and look forward to reviewing your application. For questions or more information, please email careerinfo@siue.edu .
Benefits: SIUE offers an exceptional array of benefits to all full-time and part-time employees (50% or more receive benefits accrued at the percentage of appointment) including:
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance;
- University tuition waivers (full-time employees receive 100% waiver of tuition)
- Life insurance;
- SURS retirement plan;
- Supplemental retirement savings plans;
- Paid vacation and sick leave accrual;
- Generous holiday schedule/paid holidays;
- WorkLife programs;
- Employee Assistance Program (mental health and wellness);
- Employee discounts (local and national retailers);
- Flexible Spending Account Program;
For more about our benefits and employee services, visit: https://www.siue.edu/human-resources/benefits
Opening Date: 03/04/2025
Closing Date: 9/24/2025 11:59 PM Central
Address: 1040 Rendleman Hall
Edwardsville, Illinois, 62026
Website: https://www.siue.edu/
Equal employment opportunity, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.
PI278042677
