Senior Event Coordinator

University of Georgia – Tifton Conference Center – Athens, Georgia, United States (on-site)

About the role

The Senior Event Coordinator plans, coordinates, and oversees complex meetings, conferences, and special events from initial planning through on-site execution. The role serves as the primary liaison for clients, managing event logistics, vendor coordination, catering, lodging, technical services, staffing, and security needs to ensure a successful event experience. The position involves negotiating contracts, preparing and managing budgets, monitoring conference center expenditures, and ensuring accurate billing for all event-related charges.

Responsibilities

• Plan, coordinate, and oversee the on-site management of highly complex meetings, conferences, and special events (60% of time).
• Work closely with clients, vendors, and event stakeholders to ensure seamless event execution by coordinating security, audiovisual and technical support, catering, staffing, and other operational services.
• Serve as a primary point of contact for clients throughout the event lifecycle.
• Manage event logistics from initial planning through completion, ensuring client satisfaction and addressing business and operational needs.
• Maintain a flexible work schedule to meet event demands, including evenings and weekends.
• Maintain relationships with past clients and conduct targeted outreach to promote conference center services (40% of time).
• Cultivate relationships with external meeting planners to negotiate contracts, manage budgets, and secure new business opportunities for the conference center.
• Engage in outreach opportunities to promote the conference center and support potential clientele.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in a related field or equivalent experience.
• Two years of professional experience in event planning or coordination.
• Strong planning, organizational, and project management skills with the ability to coordinate multiple priorities and complex event details.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with clients, colleagues, vendors, and other stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently while exercising sound judgment in event planning, contract negotiations, and logistical coordination.
• Commitment to providing exceptional customer service and ensuring high levels of client satisfaction.
• Proficiency in event management, financial, and other computer software systems to support daily operations.
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills with the ability to adapt to changing client and event needs.
• Flexible schedule, including frequent evening and weekend work to support event operations and client needs.

Physical Demands

• Walking, bending, and lifting as needed to perform job duties.
• Driving may be required to perform job duties.

Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation, including a criminal background check and confirmation of credentials and employment history.