Director of Event Services, Gulf Park

The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Director of Event Services, Gulf Park.

Position Details

Location Gulf Park

730 East Beach Boulevard

Long Beach, Mississippi, 39560

United States

Division Office of the Provost - GP

Position Type Staff

Employment Status Full Time

Grant Funded No

Pay Grade

E08

Posting Close Date Open until filled

Job Summary

The Director of Event Services is a multi-faceted position that involves creative planning and attention to detail, responsibility for fostering strong relationships with internal and external partners, direct oversight of all non-academic events on campus, pursuit of new revenue-generating opportunities, and exceptional customer relation skills. The Director also serves as a convergence point and liaison between students, staff, faculty, University service providers, community partners, and related groups, including third parties, to ensure that all events function smoothly.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• Oversee facilitation of events at the Gulf Park Campus:

A- Chairs/co-chairs planning committees for campus-wide events;

B- Enforces guidelines and policies for events held at Gulf Park;

C- Monitors usage of event and classroom spaces to ensure no events overlap or interrupt academic classes or other events;

D- Responsible for training and supporting the campus community’s use of the campus-wide scheduling system;

E- Maintains open communication with campus community concerning upcoming events that may impact normal operations.

• Communicates effectively and works as the University liaison with Catering, iTech, University Police Department, and Physical Plant; negotiates agreements with outside vendors to ensure all needs are met for the requestor; works directly with third-party AV vendors for all streaming requirements on campus; assists with streaming operations on the day of events; and provides recordings of events for requestor.

• Collaborates directly with the Registrar to achieve the most efficient use of all dual-purpose spaces and classrooms to include:

A- Executive format courses (HCD, IDV);

B- Hybrid classes not scheduled through the Registrar’s office;

C- OLLI classes.

• Develops promotional materials and proactively recruits new internal and external clients; develops and implements sales action plans with the express goal of increasing revenue; represents Event Services in presentations to campus and community; attends tradeshows and other events to showcase facilities and cultivate potential business; provides tours to potential clients and answers questions regarding all spaces and services; develops a network of potential clients and colleagues in the events industry and community to enhance the public presence of the University as a unique venue event site.

• Handles all strategic planning for Gulf Park Event Services, including the establishment and evaluation of procedures, policies, guidelines, and goals. Manages budget and fiscal operations associated with upkeep of rental items and furniture/equipment updates/upgrades. Participates in the strategic planning of future campus buildings to offer guidance surrounding event space and multi-purpose space.

• Collaborates regularly with campus and unit leaders for campus-wide events. Works directly with Physical Plant and other constituents to schedule construction projects while coordinating around campus events and academic classes.

• Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s Degree in a related field (tourism, management, marketing, business). 4 years of experience in event planning, management, tourism, hospitality, or a related professional field.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills, as well as critical thinking ability.

• Excellent organization skills and attention to detail.

• Critical thinking skills, ability to deal with ambiguity, resolve complex problems, and effectively manage projects.

• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.

• Ability to meet deadlines and work in a multi-priority environment.

• Ability to treat confidential information with sensitivity.

• Ability to lead and motivate others to achieve objectives.

• Ability to effectively plan work activities, schedules, priorities and utilization of resources.

• Ability to create new and innovative solutions.

• Ability to analyze problems, identify alternative solutions, project consequences of proposed actions and implement recommendations in support of goal.

• Ability to supervise, motivate and train others.

• Thinks strategically and seeks to align department services and goals with institutional strategic goals.

• Helps others become more effective through development and coaching.

• Adapts communication style to meet the needs of diverse audiences and situations. Listens to understand others. Provides quality feedback.

Preferred Qualifications

A Master’s degree from an accredited college or university and four or more years relevant event planning and sales. Knowledge of Ad Astra and Mazevo scheduling systems. Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) Certification. 2 years experience in event planning and management in a higher education environment

About The University of Southern Mississippi

Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation's leading research institutions.

Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.

We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We’re developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit www.usm.edu.

As an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity employer/Americans with Disabilities Act institution, The University of Southern Mississippi encourages minorities, women, veterans and persons with disabilities to apply.