Director for Event Services

The Director of Event Services provides strategic leadership and operational oversight for all campus event services at Loyola University New Orleans. Grounded in the University's Jesuit, Catholic mission, the Director ensures that events support institutional priorities, enhance the campus experience, generate revenue, and reflect Loyola's commitment to hospitality, excellence, and care for the whole person (cura personalis). This role oversees event planning and logistics, business development, budget and fiscal management, staff supervision, and marketing and outreach related to campus events and facilities. Essential Duties Provide comprehensive leadership for the planning, coordination, and execution of campus events, including academic, student life, administrative, advancement, and external/client-based events. Establish and maintain event policies, procedures, and service standards to ensure consistency, safety, accessibility, and high-quality customer service. Collaborate with internal partners (Student Affairs, Academic Affairs, Facilities, Campus Safety, Dining Services, IT, HES, and Marketing) to ensure seamless event delivery. Oversee scheduling and space utilization to maximize campus facilities while aligning with institutional priorities. Business Development & Revenue Generation Develop and implement strategies to grow external event and conference business, including, but not limited to, summer conferences, summer camps, rentals, and special events. Serve as the primary point of contact for external clients, negotiating contracts and ensuring positive client relationships. Analyze market trends and peer benchmarks to position Loyola competitively within the higher education and local New Orleans event marketplace. Budget & Fiscal Management Develop, manage, and oversee departmental operating budgets, ensuring fiscal responsibility and alignment with University goals. Monitor revenue, expenses, and cost-recovery models related to events and facility usage. Prepare financial reports, projections, and analyses to inform senior leadership decision-making. Ensure compliance with University financial policies, risk management standards, and contractual obligations. Staff Supervision & Leadership Recruit, train, supervise, and evaluate professional staff and student employees within Event Services. Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and service-oriented team culture grounded in Jesuit values. Provide ongoing professional development, coaching, and performance feedback to support staff growth and retention. Manage staffing plans and on-call coverage to support events during evenings and weekends as needed. Marketing, Communications & Outreach Partner with University Marketing and Communications to develop and execute marketing strategies for campus event services and facilities. Oversee the creation of promotional materials, digital content, and web presence related to event services and venue offerings. Track and assess marketing effectiveness, client satisfaction, and engagement metrics. Serve as an ambassador for Loyola University New Orleans in the community through outreach, partnerships, and professional associations. Additional Duties Other duties as assigned Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree in higher education administration, hospitality management, business, marketing, or a related field. Minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible experience in event services, conference services, hospitality, or a related area. Demonstrated experience with budget management, revenue generation, and financial oversight. Proven supervisory and leadership experience with professional and student staff. Strong organizational, communication, and customer service skills. Preferred Qualifications Master's degree in higher education administration, business administration, or a related field. Experience in a private, mission-driven, or Jesuit institution. Knowledge of event management systems, space scheduling software, and contract management. Experience collaborating with marketing and communications teams to promote services and events. Work Environment & Expectations This position requires flexibility to work evenings and weekends as dictated by event schedules. The Director of Event Services is expected to model professionalism, hospitality, and commitment to Loyola University New Orleans' mission and values. Ability to perform the job duties with or without reasonable accommodation. #J-18808-Ljbffr Loyola University New Orleans