Events Officer

Competition 1374

This position is a part of the Association of the Academic Staff of the University of Alberta (AASUA).

In accordance with the Administrative and Professional Officer Agreement, this full-time continuing position offers a comprehensive benefits package found on our Benefits Overview page and an annual salary range of $64,206 to $107,006.

Location - This role is hybrid with a mix of remote and in-person primarily at Enterprise Square, Edmonton.

Working at the University of Alberta

The University of Alberta acknowledges that we are located on Treaty 6 territory, and respects the histories, languages and cultures of First Nations, Métis, Inuit and all FirstPeoples of Canada, whose presence continues to enrich our vibrant community.

The University of Alberta is a community of knowledge seekers, change makers and world shapers who lead with purpose each and every day. We are home to over 14,000 faculty and staff, more than 40,000 students and a growing community of 300,000 alumni worldwide.

Your work will have a meaningful influence on a fascinating cross-section of people — from our students and community members, to our renowned researchers and innovators, making discoveries and generating solutions that make the world healthier, safer, stronger and more just. Learn more.

Working for the Faculty 

The External Relations team showcases our faculty, staff, students, and alumni. We connect the university with its many communities — alumni, donors, advocates, government, and industry partners—and advocate for the U of A as we advance our promise of uplifting the whole people. We lead and determine the strategy for external initiatives and help develop the reputation of, and pride in, the university.

Position 

The Events Officer plays a vital role in the planning and execution of major events, many of which relate to strategic priorities for the Office of the Vice President (External Relations), the Office of the President, and the institution as a whole. Reporting to the Manager, Events, the Events Officer has a critical role within the portfolio as the projects led by the Events Officer are events of the highest profile. These events are designed to enhance the University of Alberta’s reputation and advance its place in its various communities. Working with the External Relations Events Team, the Officer designs, delivers, and professionally manages high-quality, responsive events and initiatives to secure and strengthen long-term relationships with alumni, donors, business and community leaders, government leaders, and key stakeholders. 

The Events Officer plays a critical role in helping other members of the team ensure that their events are well planned and executed and helps to identify potential issues with all events.

Duties 

• Consults with and provides professional expertise to campus partners and colleagues on the design and development of strategic community and institutional events. Ensures that the events are customized and relevant to individuals or groups and align with the goals and objectives of the Vice-President External Relations and the University of Alberta.
• Communicates daily with the Event Leads and Coordinators on the Events Team and advises them on their day-to-day work, assists in creating solutions to challenges they encounter, and serves as a mentor to them.
• Manages on-site event execution to proactively identify and resolve issues; maintains a quality experience for guests and participants while advancing the reputation of the University of Alberta.
• Advises the Manager, Events on effective assignment of staff resources from the Events Team based on their skills and capacity.  Provides input for inclusion in performance reviews for Event Team members.
• Liaises with colleagues in External Relations and university staff across campus to develop events and initiatives that cultivate relationships throughout the university’s various communities.
• Works closely with relationship managers in Centres of Excellence across External Relations, and with those in campus units, to deliver on objectives of specific strategic events. Typical groups include alumni relations, donor relations, government and community relations, marketing, communication, faculties, risk management, and facilities.
• Maintains a strong understanding of the university’s mission and strategic priorities, as well as those of External Relations. Incorporates this understanding into event management and strategic planning.

Minimum Qualifications

• Five or more years of relevant experience managing special events and strategic initiatives
• A university degree is required.
• Strong planning, project management, organizational, and administrative skills to lead a wide variety of projects and programs.
• Excellent judgment, tact, and knowledge of protocols.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to effectively build relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Experience overseeing colleagues and volunteers while leading large, complex events.
• Ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Ability and willingness to work flexible and non-standard hours, including evenings and weekends when required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in a post-secondary education setting, complex non-profit environment, or large community events.
• Knowledge of university policies, procedures, programs, and structures.