• Job Type: Officer of Administration
• Regular/Temporary: Regular
• Hours Per Week: 35
• Salary Range: $70,000 - $82,000

Position Summary

Reporting to the Senior Director of Events, the Associate Director plays a pivotal role in ensuring the successful planning and execution of a wide range of events, both internal and external, that enhance the reputation and community engagement of Columbia Business School (CBS).  This position is responsible for overseeing the end-to-end event lifecycle, from conceptualization and planning to execution and post-evaluation. In addition, the Associate Director also requires maintaining an understanding of event technologies, logistics, and trends to continuously improve event operations and outcomes. This role requires close collaboration with various internal departments to deliver high-quality, impactful event experiences that align with the strategic priorities of the School.

For over a century, Columbia Business School has helped develop leaders and builders of enterprises who drive value for their stakeholders and society at large through our MBA, MS, PhD, and Executive Education programs. We are equally committed to cultivating new scholars and teachers, and to creating and disseminating pathbreaking knowledge, concepts, and tools which advance the understanding and practice of management through our faculty research and PhD programs.

Our vision is simple: to develop ideas and leaders that transform the world—from the very center of business. Our ever-evolving curriculum - featuring pioneering courses, STEM certification, and immersive experiential learning -prepares students to excel in key areas such as digital transformation, entrepreneurship, and innovation, twenty-first century finance, the intersection of business and society, and climate and sustainability. The CBS administration enables CBS’ educational and scholarly mission through strategic and operational guidance and support, optimizing School resources through well-designed, transparent processes with a culture of respect for all.

Responsibilities

Event Planning, Execution & Logistics

• Oversees the planning and execution of events, including room configurations, logistics, and on-site management.
• Ensures all events align with the strategic goals of CBS.
• Oversees room setups and configurations to meet the specific requirements of each event, ensuring optimal use of space and resources.
• In partnership with the Senior Director of Events, plans and schedules regular events advisory group meetings.
• Manages external events hosted at CBS, ensuring compliance with university policies and standards.
• Prepares and submits necessary forms to the Facilities & Operations team to facilitate event planning and execution.

Client Interaction & Collaboration:

• Serves as the point of contact for internal and external clients, conducting walkthroughs and planning sessions to understand their needs and expectations for events.
• Works closely with internal teams such as Multi-Media Group (MMG), Operations, and University Event Management (UEM) to coordinate event logistics and ensure all requirements are met.

Documentation, Communications & Budget Management:

• Develops, writes, and maintains comprehensive procedures and documentation for event processes.
• Updates the CBS events website and ensures communicates relevant changes as needed. Along with the Senior Director of Events, helps plan and execute training sessions for internal stakeholders.
• Assists in the development and management of event budgets, ensuring cost-effective solutions while maintaining high-quality standards.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Event Management, Hospitality, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in event planning and management, preferably in an academic or corporate environment.
• Strong organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and effectively prioritize tasks.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a customer-focused and service-oriented mindset.
• Proficiency in event management software, Cvent, Campus Groups a plus.
• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams and stakeholders.
• Strong problem-solving skills and meticulous attention to detail.

Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran

Columbia University is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents.