Senior Director, University Events

William and Mary, United States

Updated: 8 days ago
Location: Williamsburg, VIRGINIA
Job Type: FullTime

Position Information
Position Information


Position Number FPA73W
Position Title Senior Director, University Events
Employment Category Full Time Professional
Location William & Mary
Department 610000 University Advancement
Unit Mission Statement
At William & Mary, we convene great hearts and minds to meet the most pressing needs of our time. As such, the university aspires to attract and retain exceptional students, faculty and staff who keep W&M at the forefront of teaching, learning and research. University Marketing emphasizes three core areas — enrollment, advancement and reputation — to enhance William & Mary’s standing as a top institution of higher learning in the U.S. and around the globe. Through its work to strengthen brand perception, student recruitment, alumni engagement and fundraising, University Marketing advances William & Mary’s distinctive excellence, raises its profile worldwide and secures its financial foundation — creating meaningful connections and wide-ranging impact for all times coming.
Position Summary
The Senior Director of University Events is a leader on the Strategic Events team in University Marketing at William & Mary. The position oversees a small team and has specific responsibility for the strategic development and management of the university’s major events and signature experiences that deepen pride and connection across the entire William & Mary community. The position will be supported as needed for events with assistance from members of the Strategic Events team.
The Senior Director reports to the Executive Director of Strategic Events and has a close working relationship with the Senior Assistant to the President and Clerk to the Board of Visitors. As the architect and manager of key campus events, the position partners with University Marketing and University Communications to coordinate branding, messaging and event marketing.
The Senior Director will lead with university values to foster a culture of belonging and trust that embraces all people and perspectives. The Senior Director is expected to work in person in the office in Williamsburg, VA, with the option to negotiate some flexibility for occasional remote work.
Please review the full position description with all job duties under the “Featured Job Opportunities” on the University Advancement recruitment website: https://advancement.wm.edu/come-work-with-us/open-positions/index.php
Conditions of Employment
  • This position may require additional hours beyond the typical workday/week to include evenings and weekends.
  • Flexibility to travel, and willingness and ability to use one’s own reliable personal transportation as required.
  • Ability to lift 25 lbs.
  • This position requires a driver’s license.
Essential Designation No
FLSA Exempt
Position Restricted? No, this is a continuing E&G funded position and not term-limited
Position Term 12-Month
Position Months Faculty or Staff: 12 month
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree or the equivalent combination of education, experience, and training.
  • Substantive experience managing the full event planning cycle for both small- and large-scale events and a range of event types, including special events involving dignitaries (public officials, celebrities, etc.) (typically 5+ years).
  • Experience supervising and motivating staff within a highly matrixed collaborative environment (typically 5+ years).
  • Outstanding interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills, with the proven ability to work collaboratively as a team player as well as develop and foster communication and teamwork with a diverse audience including alumni, donors, faculty, staff, students and the W&M community.
  • Excellent project management skills and the ability to manage competing priorities, complex situations and tight deadlines.
  • Excellent computer skills and proficiency with Microsoft Office products and a variety of computer applications including word-processing, graphic design, spreadsheets, databases, and on-line systems.
  • Ability to work professionally and autonomously as a high-level manager and pan-organization collaborator.
  • Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusiveness, including, but not limited to, collaboration, staffing, and programming.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Master’s degree in a related field.
  • Active professional development through an industry organization, such as MPI, SGMP, CASE, or NAACO.
  • Professional certification such as CMP, CMM, CGMP, or CSEP.
  • Experience with CVENT, Blackbaud CRM, Blackbaud Internet Solutions (BBIS), Microsoft Planner, Loop, Social Tables, and/or other event management software and programs.
  • Experience creating and promoting events through various communication channels (typically 5+ years).
  • Experience managing a budget (typically 5+ years).
  • Experience overseeing site selection, program development, strategic outlook, and moving all planning details forward positively to ensure consistent event experiences and messaging.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to analyze issues or roadblocks and effectively bring resolution.
  • Demonstrated success using data and analytics to measure and drive program development and improvement.
Is the position remote work eligible? Hybrid (works remotely at least 1 day per week but not full-time)
Remote Work Disclaimer
Remote work eligibility is not guaranteed and is subject to approval. Employee eligibility depends on the likelihood of the employee succeeding in a remote work arrangement and the supervisor’s ability to manage remote workers. Departments and/or Human Resources may amend, alter, change, delete, or modify eligibility.
Advertised Pay Range Up to $120,000, commensurate with experience
Advertised Pay Range Statement
All hiring rates are commensurate with relevant experience up to the advertised amount considering internal alignment.
University Salary Range U15
Benefits Summary Statement
William & Mary offers our employees a full array of benefits including retirement, health insurance with options for expanded dental and vision along with group and optional life insurance with coverage for spouse and children, flexible spending accounts, and an EAP (Employee Assistance Program).
Our employees enjoy additional university benefits such as educational assistance, professional development, wellness benefits, and a robust holiday schedule. All employees have access to fitness facilities on campus. Staff members also have access to the university libraries, and much more. To learn more, go to: https://www.wm.edu/offices/uhr/benefits/index.php?type=none
Job Open Date 04/16/2025
Review Begin Date 06/16/2025
Job Close Date
Open Until Filled Yes
Special Application Instructions
Background Check Statement
William & Mary is committed to providing a safe campus community. W&M conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include reference checks, a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check.
EEO Statement
William & Mary values diversity and invites applications from underrepresented groups who will enrich the research, teaching and service missions of the university. The university is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and encourages applications from women, minorities, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities.

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