Manager, Special Events

Promote and enhance the visibility and reputation of Loyola Marymount University by leading the strategic planning, execution, and evaluation of high-impact special events that advance the goals of the University Advancement division.

Drive the successful planning and delivery of alumni, volunteer leadership, and donor engagement experiences by cultivating strong partnerships with University Advancement colleagues, LMU staff, and external partners. Support institutional fundraising priorities by advancing donor cultivation and stewardship strategies through high-impact events that strengthen relationships, deepen engagement, and contribute to long-term philanthropic support.

Champion a culture of continuous improvement by assessing event outcomes and supporting the refinement of departmental processes, systems, and best practices to effectively advance the University’s mission and engagement objectives.

LMU believes that diversity and excellence go hand-in-hand, therefore we seek to hire individuals who have a significant potential for cultural contribution in the workplace and a commitment to working effectively with colleagues and donors from diverse backgrounds.

*For full consideration, please upload a cover letter and resume in the attachments section.*
 

Position Specific Responsibilities/Accountabilities

• Develop, manage, and execute a portfolio of high-profile events that enhance LMU’s visibility, reputation, and engagement objectives. (85%)
—Oversee all phases of event planning and execution for assigned events, including strategic planning, marketing coordination, constituency engagement strategy, budget management, venue and vendor management, risk mitigation, program development, staffing and volunteer coordination, registration and guest management, event execution, and post-event evaluation.
­ —Collaborate closely with University Advancement Marketing and Communications (AdvComm), campus partners, and external vendors to ensure alignment with institutional priorities and brand standards.
­ —Lead and participate in strategic planning sessions and post-event evaluations to assess performance, measure outcomes against established goals, and inform future event strategy.
• Establish, implement, and maintain professional standards, processes, and procedures that ensure the successful delivery of events consistent with LMU’s brand and reputation. (10%) 
• Perform other duties as assigned in support of the Director of Special Events and the University Advancement division. (5%) 

Loyola Marymount University Expectations
Exhibit behavior that supports the mission, vision, and values of the university. Communicate and employ interpersonal actions that model high standards of professional, responsible, accountable, and ethical conduct. Demonstrate a commitment to outstanding customer service.

Requisite Qualifications

• Minimum of five years of progressive experience in event planning and production, including in-person and virtual events, preferably within higher education or a similarly complex organization. 

• Demonstrated ability to lead and oversee event staff, volunteers, vendors, and cross-functional teams in a collaborative, results-driven environment. 

• Strong project management skills, including the ability to manage multiple concurrent events from concept through execution while meeting deadlines and delivering high-quality outcomes. 

• Proven ability to manage budgets, timelines, and competing priorities in fast-paced, deadline-driven environments. 

• Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse audiences and navigate complex stakeholder dynamics with professionalism and diplomacy. 

• Highly developed judgment and decision-making skills, with the ability to provide clear direction and resolve issues effectively. 

• Knowledge of event marketing, communications, and social media strategies, including familiarity with relevant tools and platforms. 

• Proficiency in virtual event and meeting platforms (e.g., Zoom) and the ability to quickly learn new technologies. 

• Working knowledge of the Los Angeles event market and established relationships with vendors preferred. 

• Experience with university events and environments preferred. 

• Demonstrated discretion in handling confidential information, particularly when working with senior leaders, dignitaries, and high-profile donors. 

• Proficiency in enterprise event and project management systems (e.g., Cvent, Smartsheet, Salesforce) and Microsoft Office applications.

• Special Instructions to Applicants

• Some evening and weekend hours are required.