• Job Type: Officer of Administration
• Regular/Temporary: Regular
• Hours Per Week: 35
• Salary Range: $96,000 - $101,000

Position Summary

Reporting to the Director, University Ceremonies, the Associate Director will manage the design, planning and execution of University ceremonies on and off campus, with a particular focus on University commencement and related programming. The Associate Director will work independently on projects within the university ceremonies portfolio, developing strategies to ensure that the highest possible standards are met within given budget requirements.

Responsibilities

• Works with the Director to lead the Commencement core planning team.  
• Supervises elements of University Commencement production, contracts with vendors, and manages logistical details, venue and campus operations, and event staffing. 
• Leads planning strategies with individual schools and coordinates University staff volunteers to develop a seamless guest experience at all levels.
• Establishes and maintains relationships with key University stakeholders to support event objectives.
• Works independently to direct the University-wide Commencement week calendar and logistics, including the University’s main Commencement ceremony and the Class Day ceremonies of several schools, and related Commencement activities.
• Under the direction of the Director, develops strategies related to all Commencement Week planning and workflow.
• Establishes procedures, manages University partner relationships, and continuously analyzes all aspects of Commencement Week.
• Evaluates post-event and program recommendations.
• Develops strategies and plans for improvement related to all commencement activities.
• Manages University Commencement traditions and related logistics, working closely with the individual schools and marshals to ensure proper execution.
• Manages a team of professionals and support staff, as well as volunteer recruitment for university commencement activities.
• Prepares briefings and executive communications for ceremonial events and programs.
• Writes the Commencement script and oversees related executive briefings.
• Works with Public Affairs on media coverage and marketing of Commencement-related events as well as high-profile university ceremonies.
• Additional duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree.
• Minimum of four years of related experience.

Additional Position-Specific Minimum Qualifications

• Supervisory experience required.
• Must demonstrate outstanding interpersonal skills and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment while maintaining a calm and professional demeanor. Demonstrated ability to relate well with others with discretion and diplomacy. 
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills required.
• Must be highly detail-oriented and have exceptional organizational skills with the ability to handle multiple tasks at once.
• Ability to meet deadlines under pressure accurately and while producing high-level work.
• Must exercise a high degree of diplomacy, collaboration, and problem-solving.
• Confidentiality and discretion are required. Will demonstrate innovative and analytical thinking. Some evening and weekend work is required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Minimum of four years event production experience, preferred.
• Experience in a university, major cultural institution, or other comparable environment is desirable.

Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran

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