Strategic Events Manager

MIT • Cambridge, MA

11d

About The Position

STRATEGIC EVENTS MANAGER , School of Engineering - Dean's Office , to lead the planning and execution of a broad portfolio of events, advancing strategic, community-building, and development goals through exceptional event experiences for students, alumni, faculty, staff, donors, corporate partners, government officials, and international visitors; oversee the full event lifecycle, from concept development and long-range planning to budgeting, stakeholder coordination, communications, logistics, and on-site execution; shape event strategy, define objectives and audiences, and ensure each event reflects the School’s priorities with consistency, quality, and impact; lead major community and ceremonial events, such as commencement-related programs, staff celebrations, advisory committee events, faculty gatherings, and large-scale degree ceremonies; support high-profile donor and VIP visits by developing agendas, preparing materials, coordinating faculty participation, and managing security and media logistics; work closely with Institute partners, vendors, and internal teams; supervise event operations, track budgets, maintain planning tools, and evaluate outcomes to strengthen future programming.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in hospitality, events management, or a related field
• a minimum of five years of experience in events management, preferably in a non-profit or higher education environment
• demonstrated ability to take initiative, working well independently and as part of a team
• exceptional customer service and communication skills
• ability to anticipate needs and manage multiple complex tasks simultaneously in a demanding, fast-paced environment
• experience problem-solving and advising individuals with complex and diverse needs
• proficiency in reservation software and Excel, as well as Microsoft Office
• creative out-of-the-box-thinking
• strong organization and time management skills
• ability to communicate and work effectively with a variety of internal and external stakeholders
• ability to lift (approximately 20 to 30 pounds) and perform other physical exertion
• Occasional travel may be required.
• Required to work a variety of hours to accommodate events, including occasional evenings and weekends.

Responsibilities

• planning and execution of a broad portfolio of events
• oversee the full event lifecycle, from concept development and long-range planning to budgeting, stakeholder coordination, communications, logistics, and on-site execution
• shape event strategy, define objectives and audiences
• lead major community and ceremonial events
• support high-profile donor and VIP visits
• work closely with Institute partners, vendors, and internal teams
• supervise event operations, track budgets, maintain planning tools, and evaluate outcomes to strengthen future programming

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees