Director, Executive Engagement

Job Summary:

The Director for Executive Events is responsible for the strategic planning, coordination, and execution of high-profile executive events on behalf of The University of Akron, including those hosted by the Offices of the President, Board of Trustees, Advancement, and the Alumni Association. This role serves as a key partner to senior leadership, ensuring events advance institutional priorities, strengthen relationships with key stakeholders, and reflect the University's brand and standards of excellence.

Under the direction of the Vice President for University Engagement, the Director oversees all aspects of executive events, including concept development, budgeting, timelines, invitation strategy, logistics, vendor management, and on-site execution. The position collaborates closely with internal and external partners to deliver seamless, mission-driven experiences and evaluates event outcomes to inform continuous improvement and future planning.

Essential Functions:

Conceive, plan, manage, and coordinate executive events, including detailed planning and budgeting, while serving as a liaison between participants and the Offices of the President, Board of Trustees, Advancement, and the Alumni Association.

Serve as the primary liaison to internal and external stakeholders, including trustees, donors, alumni, students, community leaders, elected officials, and visiting dignitaries. Develop and maintain accurate and up-to-date mailing and invitation lists, as well as manage RSVPs using University-approved systems. Oversee or assist in the creation, production, and distribution of promotional and informational materials for executive events in accordance with University brand standards.

Provide on-site leadership and real-time problem-solving during events to ensure seamless execution. Evaluate event outcomes and recommend enhancements to improve future executive programming.

Draft related correspondence on behalf of the President, Board of Trustees and/or Vice President for University Engagement.

Additional Position Information:

Education:

Requires a relevant bachelor's degree.

Licenses/Certifications/Requirements:

None.

Experience:

Requires a minimum of 5 years of special events experience, including budget management related to special events. Must demonstrate strong communication, organizational and relationship skills and the ability to work well independently required. Ability to coordinate with and/or delegate work to diverse individuals, including staff at all levels, external suppliers, and dignitaries required. Experience working in a university or other higher-education setting is preferred, as is knowledge of university resources, procedures, staff and constituencies.

Leadership:

Functional guidance over nonexempt staff including general scheduling, assigning tasks and monitoring work activities.

Physical Requirements:

Light physical effort required involving stooping and bending; individual has limited discretion about walking, standing, etc.

occasionally lifting of lightweight objects (up to 25 lbs.).

Application Instructions:

In order to be considered for this position, please complete the online application and attach your resume, cover letter and 3 references.

Application Deadline: Review of applications will begin on February 16, 2026.

Compensation: The compensation for this position is commensurate with experience.

FLSA Status (exempt/nonexempt):

United States of America (Exempt)

Union Affiliation (if applicable):

For assistance with your application or attachments, please contact the Human Resources representative listed:

Cindy Harm

Email:

charm@uakron.edu

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Background Check Statement

The University of Akron is committed to providing a safe environment for all students and employees. The University endeavors to protect the health, welfare and safety of all students, employees and visitors on our campus. As such, all offers of employment with The University of Akron are contingent upon verification of credentials, and satisfactory completion of a criminal background check. Some positions may require additional credit investigation and a pre-employment driving record search.

Non-Discrimination Statement

The University of Akron is an Equal Education and Employment Institution. View our Non-Discrimination Statement for more information. Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans.

State of Residence Statement

It is the expectation of the University of Akron that all work performed as an employee of the University will be performed in Ohio.