Projects and Events Coordinator

Work Hours: 7:45am - 4:30pm
Work environment: Administrative office setting
Work Mode: Hybrid Currently, Monday - Thursday in office; Friday remote. Subject to change as dictated by business needs.

Please note, this position is not eligible for H-1B or Green Card sponsorship. This position does not offer a STEM OPT training program.

The Projects and Engagement Manager plays a central role in advancing the Office of the Executive Vice President and Provost (EVPP) academic mission by leading the coordinated execution of high-impact engagement initiatives and complex projects. Reporting to the Chief of Staff, this position serves as an operations partner to the Chief of Staff, ensuring the effective planning, execution, and continuous improvement of priority initiatives and signature events.
This role integrates project management excellence with engagement strategy, coordinating a portfolio of cross-functional initiatives and high-visibility academic and non-academic projects and events that support the University's mission and enhance the EVPP's visibility and impact. Success in this position requires sound judgment, discretion, and the ability to operate effectively as part of a team and independently, in a complex, fast-paced academic environment.
The Coordinator operates with a high degree of organization and professionalism, ensuring that initiatives are executed efficiently, communications are clear, and outcomes align with established goals.

Primary Responsibilities

Projects and Initiatives Coordination (40%)
* Manage and coordinate full project lifecycles, including scope definition, planning, implementation, communicating, monitoring, and closeout for committees, task forces, senior level searches, etc.
* Develop and maintain comprehensive project plans, timelines, milestones, and deliverables across multiple initiatives (in person, hybrid, and virtual)
* Monitor progress, identify risks, and implement mitigation strategies to ensure successful projects and initiatives outcomes
* Conduct research, analysis, and stakeholder engagement to inform project planning and decision-making
* Build and sustain strong relationships with internal and external partners
* Serve as a key liaison across the EVPP and broader institution, ensuring effective communication and coordination of EVPP events
* Represent the EVPP in initiatives related to engagement, belonging, and institutional culture
* Foster collaborative partnerships that advance strategic priorities and enhance community impact
* Prepare draft briefings, status reports, and recommendations to inform decision-making
* Maintain accurate and accessible project documentation and records
* Provide timely, routine, executive-level project summaries to EVPP leadership

Events Leadership (35%)
* Develop and implement a comprehensive engagement and events strategy aligned with EVPP priorities and goals
* Lead the planning and execution of high-profile events, including academic forums, leadership convenings, receptions, recognition programs, accreditation-related activities, and ceremonial events
* Advise senior leadership on event strategy, audience engagement, and program design
* Design, develop, and implement community engagement initiatives within the Office of the EVPP that strengthen belonging, collaboration, and institutional impact ( e.g., team engagement and recognition events, milestones recognitions)
* Cultivate strong partnerships and cross-functional relationships to deliver impactful, engaging events and support mission-aligned initiatives. Convene and facilitate internal and external stakeholder groups to support initiative and event development and delivery
* Oversee all event logistics, including budgeting, vendor coordination, communications, event attendee management, catering, production needs, facilities coordination, and participant experience
* Provide on-site coordination and support event operations for all events by assisting with setup and breakdown activities, handling materials and supplies, coordinating logistics, and addressing last-minute event needs or issues.
* Develop event materials such as agendas, briefing documents, and run-of-show plans
* Ensure events and engagement efforts reinforce institutional reputation and academic excellence
Establish, collect and evaluate engagement metrics, using data to inform continuous improvement
Engage in program/event evaluation using surveys and/or other evaluation tools, and then analyzing results to inform consistent growth and development of high-profile events, improve attendee experience, and improve operational efficiencies

Operational and Administrative Support (25%)
* Provide executive and operational administrative support to the Chief of Staff
* Contribute to continuous improvement of office operations, processes, and administrative systems
Establish and refine systems, tools, and workflows to support consistent and efficient project and event delivery; and administrative operations
Support procurement, expense processing and tracking, and compliance with university policies and procedures. Coordinate procurement, contracts, and invoice processing
Coordinate meetings, agendas, and documentation, ensuring clear tracking of decisions and action items
Maintain organized records, files, and administrative systems
* Perform other duties as assigned or necessary to support the mission and administrative operations of the Executive Vice President and Provost
Key Competencies
* Project management and execution
* Community engagement and stakeholder strategy
* Executive communication and writing
* Analytical thinking and problem-solving
* Relationship-building and influence
* Discretion and sound judgment
* Tech saavy

Required Qualifications
* Bachelor's degree in business administration, non-profit management, hospitality management, or related field; and,
* A minimum of six (6) years of relevant progressive experience in project coordination, event planning, community engagement, academic or administrative administration, or related fields
* Demonstrated success leading, managing and coordinating complex, cross-functional projects and high-profile events and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
* Ability to coordinate projects across multiple stakeholders and functions
* Experience working with or supporting senior leadership in a complex organization
* Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a high-performing team environment
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including preparation of executive-level materials
* Strong organizational skills with high attention to detail
* High proficiency with technology, specifically project management and tracking tools
* On event days and occasionally, ability to work longer hours, and engage in physical activities related to events. Possible activities include, but are not limited to walking standing, light lifting and setting up and taking down equipment.

Preferred Qualifications
* Experience in higher education, nonprofit or similarly complex institutional environments
* Project management and/or event management certification
* Experience advancing community engagement, belonging, or organizational culture initiatives
* Demonstrated ability to translate strategy into execution and measurable outcomes
* Experience coordinating high-visibility events or programs
* Adaptability and composure in high-pressure settings
* Strong problem-solving skills and adaptability in a dynamic setting
* Strong interpersonal skills and ability to build effective working relationships
* Advanced knowledge of Google Suite
* Adept in use of CoPilot/Gemini or other as administrative tools for work optimization
* Experience managing budgets, vendors, and contracts
* Experience with program evaluation (data-driven analysis for decision making)

Additional Expectations
* Professionalism, maturity, and experience with the prudent handling of confidential and highly sensitive information
* Flexibility to support events and initiatives outside standard business hours as needed
* Ability to work in hybrid environment, subject to leadership discretion
* Commitment to fostering inclusive and respectful engagement across diverse communities

Pay Range: $80,000 - $100,000; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Faculty and P&A Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the
time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures
that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while
maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and
equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates
will be based on their individual credentials and experience.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume or CV.

This position will remain open until filled.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.