Strategic Events Manager in Cambridge

Q: What qualifications are required for the Strategic Events Manager role at MIT?

The position requires a Bachelor's degree in hospitality, events management, or related field, plus a minimum of five years' experience in events management, preferably in non-profit or higher education . Key skills include exceptional customer service , communication, organization, and proficiency in Excel and Microsoft Office. Physical ability to lift 20-30 pounds is needed. Explore more administration jobs or higher ed admin roles .

Q: Is higher education or non-profit experience preferred for this events role?

Yes, five years' experience in events management is required, with preference for non-profit or higher education environments . Skills in managing complex tasks in fast-paced settings, problem-solving, and working with diverse stakeholders are essential. View higher ed career advice for tips.

Q: What software and technical skills are needed?

Proficiency in reservation software , Excel , and Microsoft Office is required. Strong organization, time management, and creative problem-solving enhance success in this events management role.

Q: What are the working hours and travel expectations?

Must work varied hours for events, including occasional evenings and weekends . Occasional travel may be required. Physical exertion, including lifting 20-30 pounds, is part of the role. See conference and events administration opportunities.

Q: When is the application deadline for this MIT events position?

Applications are open until June 8, 2026 . Prepare your resume highlighting events management experience in higher ed. Use our free resume template for academic jobs.

Strategic Events Manager

Posting Description

STRATEGIC EVENTS MANAGER, School of Engineering - Dean's Office, to lead the planning and execution of a broad portfolio of events, advancing strategic, community-building, and development goals through exceptional event experiences for students, alumni, faculty, staff, donors, corporate partners, government officials, and international visitors; oversee the full event lifecycle, from concept development and long-range planning to budgeting, stakeholder coordination, communications, logistics, and on-site execution; shape event strategy, define objectives and audiences, and ensure each event reflects the School’s priorities with consistency, quality, and impact; lead major community and ceremonial events, such as commencement-related programs, staff celebrations, advisory committee events, faculty gatherings, and large-scale degree ceremonies; support high-profile donor and VIP visits by developing agendas, preparing materials, coordinating faculty participation, and managing security and media logistics; work closely with Institute partners, vendors, and internal teams; supervise event operations, track budgets, maintain planning tools, and evaluate outcomes to strengthen future programming.

Job Requirements

REQUIRED: Bachelor's degree in hospitality, events management, or a related field; a minimum of five years of experience in events management, preferably in a non-profit or higher education environment; demonstrated ability to take initiative, working well independently and as part of a team; exceptional customer service and communication skills; ability to anticipate needs and manage multiple complex tasks simultaneously in a demanding, fast-paced environment; experience problem-solving and advising individuals with complex and diverse needs; proficiency in reservation software and Excel, as well as Microsoft Office; creative out-of-the-box-thinking; strong organization and time management skills; ability to communicate and work effectively with a variety of internal and external stakeholders; and ability to lift (approximately 20 to 30 pounds) and perform other physical exertion.

Occasional travel may be required.

Required to work a variety of hours to accommodate events, including occasional evenings and weekends.

Frequently Asked Questions

🎓What qualifications are required for the Strategic Events Manager role at MIT?

The position requires a Bachelor's degree in hospitality, events management, or related field, plus a minimum of five years' experience in events management, preferably in non-profit or higher education. Key skills include exceptional customer service, communication, organization, and proficiency in Excel and Microsoft Office. Physical ability to lift 20-30 pounds is needed. Explore more administration jobs or higher ed admin roles.

📋What are the main responsibilities of the Strategic Events Manager?

Lead planning and execution of events advancing strategic goals for students, alumni, faculty, donors, and partners. Oversee full lifecycle: concept, budgeting, logistics, stakeholder coordination. Manage major events like commencements, donor visits, faculty gatherings. Supervise operations, track budgets, evaluate outcomes. Check similar higher ed jobs.

💼Is higher education or non-profit experience preferred for this events role?

Yes, five years' experience in events management is required, with preference for non-profit or higher education environments. Skills in managing complex tasks in fast-paced settings, problem-solving, and working with diverse stakeholders are essential. View higher ed career advice for tips.

💻What software and technical skills are needed?

Proficiency in reservation software, Excel, and Microsoft Office is required. Strong organization, time management, and creative problem-solving enhance success in this events management role.

🕒What are the working hours and travel expectations?

Must work varied hours for events, including occasional evenings and weekends. Occasional travel may be required. Physical exertion, including lifting 20-30 pounds, is part of the role. See conference and events administration opportunities.

📅When is the application deadline for this MIT events position?

Applications are open until June 8, 2026. Prepare your resume highlighting events management experience in higher ed. Use our free resume template for academic jobs.

Strategic Events Manager

MIT - Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MA