Department Summary:

The Office of Conference and Event Services at Drake University provides comprehensive support for planning and coordinating a wide range of events—academic meetings, conferences, campus functions, and community gatherings. Housed in the lower level of the Olmsted Center next to the Sussman Theater, the office assists students, faculty, staff, departments, and external organizations with:

Venue coordination: Book campus spaces (from small meeting rooms to large venues like Parent’s Hall and Sheslow Auditorium), including seating configurations, AV setup, and technical support.

Logistics and scheduling: Manages event timelines, space availability, and ensures compliance with university policies and procedures.

Customer support: Guides users through reservation systems, accommodation requests, vendor coordination, and confirmation processes.

Job Summary:

The Assistant Events Manager at Drake University plays a pivotal support role within the Office of Conference and Event. They assist the Director of Conferences and Events in planning, organizing, and executing a wide range of events—including academic conferences, campus gatherings, and external community functions. Their responsibilities span coordinating logistics such as venue setup, catering, audio-visual equipment, and staffing. By maintaining clear communication with vendors, campus partners, and internal stakeholders, they help ensure each event aligns with the university’s policies, brand standards, and attendee expectations.

On event days, the Assistant Events Manager typically oversees setup and breakdown and troubleshoots any issues that arise to maintain smooth operations. They also contribute to post-event evaluations, gathering feedback to support continuous improvement in future planning. Their organizational skills and attention to detail make them an essential liaison between the broader campus community and external partners, helping to deliver memorable, professional events that advance Drake’s mission and enhance its reputation.

Minimum Qualifications:

Education: Bachelor’s degree in hospitality management, event planning, business administration, or a related field.

Experience: Prior experience in event coordination or conference services, preferably in a higher education or hospitality setting.

Preferred Qualifications:

Organizational Skills: Strong ability to manage multiple events and deadlines simultaneously.

Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication for interacting with vendors, staff, and clients.

Technical Skills: Familiarity with event management software, scheduling systems, and basic AV technology.

Problem-Solving: Ability to troubleshoot issues quickly during events and adapt to changing circumstances.

Customer Service Orientation: Professional demeanor and ability to provide a positive experience for attendees and stakeholders.

Attention to Detail: Ensuring accuracy in logistics, contracts, and compliance with university policies.

Job Duties:

• 50% - Responsible for day-to-day event oversight and set-up 
• 25% - Recruits, trains, and supervises student conference staff
• 10% - Work with campus community and external clients
• 10% - Coverage of external events and conferences on evenings and weekends when necessary
• 5% - Other duties as assigned 

Salary and Benefits: