The University of Kentucky is seeking a Special Event Manager to serve as the operational lead for two of the University’s signature programs: Commencement and the College Business Management Institute (CBMI) Conference. This position is responsible for planning, coordinating, and executing large-scale events and conferences, managing logistics, stakeholder communications, vendor relationships, registration processes, and on-site operations. The manager collaborates with university departments, external partners, and event committees to ensure seamless event experiences for students, faculty, staff, and conference attendees.
In addition, the position supports university-wide event and reservation management, develops and maintains operational procedures and documentation, oversees special projects, and contributes to continuous process improvement initiatives.
The ideal candidate will possess strong project management, organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver exceptional event experiences in a fast-paced environment.
What You Will Do
- Lead the planning, coordination, and execution of the University’s Commencement ceremonies and the College Business Management Institute (CBMI) Conference
- Develop comprehensive event plans, timelines and operational logistics for large-scale events and conferences
- Coordinate with university departments, vendors, sponsors, and external partners to ensure successful event delivery
- Manage event registration processes, attendee communications, and customer service before, during, and after events
- Oversee on-site event operations, troubleshoot issues, and ensure a seamless experience for all participants
- Support university-wide event scheduling and reservation management processes
- Lead special projects and contribute to continuous process improvement initiatives that enhance operational efficiency
- Foster strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders while delivering exceptional customer service
What You Will Bring
- Experience in event management, conference planning, project management, hospitality, or a related field
- Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple complex events simultaneously
- Excellent communication, interpersonal, and relationship-building skills
- Experience coordinating vendors, contracts, logistics, and event operations
- Strong problem-solving abilities
- High attention to detail with a commitment to delivering exceptional event experiences
- Flexibility to adapt to changing priorities while maintaining a high level of professionalism
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What Is In It for You
- Meaningful impact: Lead two of the University’s most visible and celebrated signature events
- Dynamic work: Coordinate a wide variety of conferences, ceremonies, and special projects that engage the campus community
- Professional growth: Expand your expertise in event management, project leadership, and strategic operations
- Collaborative environment: Work alongside dedicated campus partners and leadership to deliver memorable experiences
- Variety and challenge: Every event presents new opportunities to innovate, solve problems, and make a lasting impact
- Comprehensive benefits: Competitive salary, excellent benefits, and opportunities for career development at the University of Kentucky
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You will join at an exciting time when your leadership, creativity, and operational expertise will have a direct and lasting impact on some of the University’s most important events.
