Assistant Director of Events (HR Title: Meeting Event Planner II)

Job Description - Assistant Director of Events (HR Title: Meeting Event Planner II) (SIM00000227) Job Description Assistant Director of Events (HR Title: Meeting Event Planner II) - ( SIM00000227 ) Description Salary Range: Salary commensurate with experience and qualifications About SMU SMU’s more than 12,000 diverse, high-achieving students come from all 50 states and over 80 countries to take advantage of the University’s small classes, meaningful research opportunities, leadership development, community service, international study and innovative programs. SMU is data driven, and its powerful supercomputing ecosystem – paired with entrepreneurial drive – creates an unrivaled environment for the University to deliver research excellence. Now in its second century of achievement, SMU is recognized for the ways it supports students, faculty and alumni as they become ethical, enterprising leaders in their professions and communities. SMU’s relationship with Dallas – the dynamic center of one of the nation’s fastest-growing regions – offers unique learning, research, social and career opportunities that provide a launch pad for global impact. SMU is nonsectarian in its teaching and committed to academic freedom and open inquiry. About the Position: This role is an on-campus, in-person position. The Assistant Director of Events is responsible for leading the planning and execution of events and special projects associated with the Simmons School of Education and Human Development. Specific event assignments will be determined based on calendar and event portfolio needs and may include high-profile events hosted by the Dean’s Office. Events may include Simmons School academic ceremonies, signature departmental events, donor events, and special projects for the Dean. Responsibilities include collaborating with Simmons colleagues and other internal clients, caterers, event designers, vendors, campus partners, and external stakeholders. Essential Functions: Event Logistics: Manage a portfolio of events hosted by the Office of the Simmons Dean, including academic ceremonies, signature department events, donor events, and special projects led by the Dean. Responsibilities include collaborating with Simmons colleagues, internal clients, catering teams, event designers, vendors, campus partners, and external constituents. Oversee event production timelines and documentation, track monthly event budgets, and recruit staff to support event execution. Guest Experience: Manage the communication schedule for each event, including overseeing invitations, guest lists, attendee tracking, internal Simmons event communications, seating arrangements, and database management. Coordinate post-event follow-up correspondence. Executive and Operational Support: Serve as a trusted extension of the Chief of Staff by taking ownership of delegated assignments, follow-up items, special projects, and time-sensitive tasks to ensure priorities move forward and commitments are fulfilled. Provide flexible, high-level operational support for emerging priorities and projects that require sound judgment, organization, discretion, follow-through, and the ability to manage competing demands. Development Systems and Processes: Support systems and processes within the Dean’s Office related to development activities. Maintain organized tracking and follow-up processes for donor communications, including Dean signature requests and other time-sensitive correspondence. Coordinate with Development Officers to ensure materials are prepared, routed, completed, and returned within established timelines. Additional Responsibilities: Perform other duties as assigned. Work evenings and weekends as needed to support events. Travel occasionally to support selected events. Qualifications Education and Experience: A Bachelor’s degree is required. A minimum of four (4) years of professional work experience is required, including at least three (3) years of experience in event logistics or project management. Experience in higher education and managing events involving high-profile guests is preferred. Experience working with volunteers is a plus. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Candidate must demonstrate strong interpersonal and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate broadly across the University and develop and maintain effective relationships with a wide range of constituencies. Must also demonstrate strong written communication skills, including copy editing. Candidate must possess strong problem-solving and analytical skills, with the ability to identify and analyze problems, as well as devise solutions. Must also have strong organizational, planning, and time management skills. Candidate must have the ability to plan and execute creative, distinctive events for students, faculty, donors, and guests. Candidate must have a working knowledge of the Microsoft Office suite, particularly strong Excel skills. Knowledge of CRM systems is required. Experience with database management is preferred. Knowledge of cloud-based event management tools is desired. Physical and Environmental Demands: Physical Reach above shoulders Carry/lift 25 lbs. Sit for long periods of time Squat Handle objects (dexterity) Kneel Stand Walk for long distances Push/Pull Drives motorized equipment Deadline to Apply: November 16, 2026 Priority consideration may be given to submissions received by November 2, 2026. EEO Statement SMU is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, or gender identity and expression. SMU offers staff a broad, competitive array of healthand related benefit s. In addition to traditional benefits such as health, dental, and vision plans, SMU offers a wide range of wellness programs to help attract, support, and retain our employees whose work continues to make SMU an outstanding education and research institution. SMU is committed to providing an array of retirement programs that benefit and protect you and your family throughout your working years at SMUand, if you meet SMU's retirement eligibility criteria, during your retirement years after you leave SMU. #J-18808-Ljbffr Southern Methodist University