Special Events Coordinator
Applicants should reside in the greater West Lafayette, Indiana area.
About the role
Working for the Purdue For Life Foundation offers a unique opportunity to be part of an organization dedicated to empowering Purdue University alumni and fostering a lifelong connection to the institution. By joining our team, you'll have the chance to contribute to a mission that supports educational initiatives, scholarships, and programs that positively impact the lives of Purdue students and graduates. The Foundation's commitment to education and community engagement provides a fulfilling work environment where you can make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and the broader community. Additionally, you'll have access to a network of passionate colleagues and the resources needed to drive positive change, making the Purdue For Life Foundation an inspiring and rewarding place to build your career.
Responsibilities
Events
- Contribute to creative guest experience ideas under the direction of senior team.
- Support the planning and execution of high-level events, on and off campus, designed to serve Purdue University and Purdue for Life’s engagement and advancement missions.
- Support execution of assigned portions of events.
- Work as part of a centralized events team to reach team goals.
- Assist with site location research, vendor communication, and event logistics such as catering, room setup, and A/V needs.
- Assist in the development of event documentation (run of shows, budgets, space diagrams) and maintain accurate event files.
- Support and practice the development and execution of run of shows for events, under guidance from senior team.
- Support the preparation of communication materials such as invitations, confirmations, and event briefs.
- Curate seating assignments and provide to senior team member for approval.
- Assist with onsite event coordination, supporting logistics related to facilities, food and beverage, signage, displays, audio-visual equipment, and security.
- Provide operational support to volunteers and event staff to ensure smooth execution of events.
- Help resolve onsite issues by escalating to senior team members when needed.
- May assist with welcoming or providing support to university leadership on-site, as directed.
- Provide onsite support during event setup, execution, and teardown.
- Ensure all dietary restrictions and ADA requests are handled in an appropriate manner.
- Review and verify work completed by student workers to ensure accuracy, quality, and alignment with project requirements and standards.
- Evenings, weekends, and travel are required as assigned.
Administrative
- Maintain attendee lists and assist with nametag creation, check-in materials, and post-event coding.
- Assist in managing invitation lists and mailings based on specified criteria under the direction of senior team.
- Collaborate with the Executive Assistant for Special Events to ensure accurate and timely processing of invoices, billings, and work orders.
- Perform other administrative and event-related duties as assigned.
Requirements
- Associates degree required.
- One year of experience in event planning or conference coordination or hospitality management required.
Skills
- Must be open to learning new skills and procedures, and receptive to guidance and feedback.
- Must possess a working knowledge of event logistics, including scheduling, setup, and vendor coordination.
- Must maintain a positive, solution-focused attitude and demonstrate a collaborative approach to team efforts.
- Ability to work under pressure and with frequent interruptions.
- Ability to multi-task and be detail oriented.
- Ability to handle confidential information.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Excellent computer skills including Microsoft Word, Excel and Internet.
- Capable of articulating the strategic mission of Purdue University and the Purdue for Life Foundation with tact and diplomacy.
- Ability to influence and build work relationships among a diverse workforce at all levels.
Benefits
For Eligible Employees:
- 10 paid holidays per year.
- Accrue up to 22 vacation days a year.
- Traditional pre-tax 403(b) and Roth retirement plans available.
- 10% employer contribution to your retirement plan and immediate vesting.
- Health Savings Account- earn up to $700 annually towards medical expenses.
- Employer funded Preventative Dental and Vision insurance.
- Tuition discounts on eligible programs at Purdue University and Purdue Global for qualified employees, spouses, and dependents.
Employment Type: Full Time
Location: Purdue for Life Foundation
Workplace type: Hybrid