"Associate Director, Strategic Events"

Position Summary

Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, is seeking a Associate Director, Strategic Events for the Rutgers Communications and Marketing. The Associate Director plays a key role in conceptualizing, developing, and executing complex, high-visibility events and initiatives for the Chancellors of Rutgers-New Brunswick and Rutgers Health that align with institutional priorities and require adaptability, teamwork, and the ability to manage multiple responsibilities.

Among the key duties of this position are the following:

• Ensures seamless event operations, fosters stakeholder engagement, and implements data-driven strategies to enhance program effectiveness.
• With authority over Rutgers Day—the university's largest public event—the Associate Director oversees all aspects of event management, crisis response, and resource allocation.
• Additionally, this role directs the University's Commercial Filming and Photography projects, leveraging high-level negotiation skills to maximize revenue while maintaining brand integrity.
• A strategic leader and problem-solver, the Associate Director provides financial oversight, develops comprehensive budgets, and optimizes resource allocation to align with institutional priorities. This role is responsible for marketing strategy and public relations efforts, ensuring events and programs reflect the university's brand and engage diverse audiences effectively.
• Serving as a key liaison between university leadership, internal departments, and external partners, the Associate Director enhances collaboration and fosters long-term institutional engagement.
• Exercising independent judgment, this position makes critical decisions regarding events, programs, and unit operations, particularly in the absence of senior leadership.
• Committed to excellence, innovation, and efficiency, the Associate Director continuously refines processes, enhances workflows, and upholds the highest standards of professionalism to support the university's strategic goals.

Minimum Education and Experience

Bachelor's degree in communication, marketing, or a similar field with at least 5 years of experience managing high visibility projects and events within a university setting is essential to navigate the institution's multifaceted environment successfully or a combination thereof.

Equipment Utilized

Use of a PC, Microsoft Office, Constant Contact, Stova Event Management System, Eventeny Event Mapping System, Qualtrics, Adobe Creative Cloud programs, and social media platforms.