The University System of Georgia (USG) is comprised of 26 higher education institutions as well as the University System Office (USO). Within the USO, our administrative operations are primarily housed in the Trinity Washington Building located in downtown Atlanta. Our Information Technology Services (ITS) division is located in Athens. The University System of Georgia Shared Services Center (SSC) is located in Sandersville. The Georgia Public Library System is located in Atlanta. The Georgia Archives is located in Morrow. The State of Georgia Records Center is located in Austell.

Information Technology Services (ITS) - 2500 Daniells Bridge Road Athens, GA 30606

University System Office (USO) - 270 Washington Street SW Atlanta, GA 30334

In addition to travel, the position will perform work from both locations, as applicable. However, this position home location will be determined upon selection of finalal candidate.

The Director of Conference & Meetings leads and manages the execution of the University System of Georgia’s System Office’s conferences, meetings and events function. Works with System leaders in the strategy, planning, and execution of high-level and engaging academically focused events and programs that are aligned with the strategic goals of University System of Georgia.

Works collaboratively with the department meeting owners, department heads, business services, venues, vendors, and campus liaisons to ensure the successful execution of meetings and events held in various locations across the System and State.

Performs end-to-end event management, delivering an exceptional attendee experience for all programs; anticipating challenges and being resourceful to recommend efficient and achievable solutions to ensure success. Supports and often leads the planning, implementation, and on-going administration for events and hospitality, in a project manager capacity. Drives results, ensures excellence in delivery, and has a high degree of sensitivity in dealing with senior level executives. Fosters efficiencies and collaboration through engaging, thoughtful system-wide events and programming.

Plans, leads, and proactively manages the daily operations of the Conference & Meetings Services (CMS) department and the strategy and execution of both large and small scaled meetings, conferences, special events, and programs. This includes requests for proposals, site selection, contract negotiation, logistical planning and budget management. Candidates should possess the flexibility to follow direction as well as take initiative as a self-starter, thrive under pressure, and have a passion for event logistics and tactics.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Ensures the daily operation of CMS team members are performed efficiently and in a professional manner.

• Maintains detailed records of all requests, approvals, revisions and expenses. Reviews all expenses for accuracy and ensures proper billing/allocation of expenses according to terms established for the event.
• Oversees, administers, and coordinates updates to USO website including content, design and layout. Manages data so it is kept up to date with current information and the conference guidelines.
• Creates and administers department guidelines and standards.
• Attends and assists with board meetings as well as certain committee meetings as needed.
• Travels as necessary and performs defined on-site duties with team members to assure all aspects of event effectiveness are met.

• Bachelor’s degree and at least seven (7) years of related experience and/or an equivalent combination of both, including
• At least five (5) years professional experience in events planning and management and/or project management, and
• At least five (5) years’ experience with office administrative management, and
• At least five (5) years supervisory experience of a team of 4 or more teammembers.
• Experience in a university or higher education environment.
• Proficient to expert level using the latest versions of Adobe, Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

• Master's degree.
• Proficient using the latest versions of the Cvent registration system.
• Project management certification.

In addition to excellent planning, organizational, and project management skills:

• Proven skills interacting with executive/senior management teams - can manage a wide variety of internal senior level stakeholders to ensure necessary buy-in, collaboration, and approvals.
• Strong communicator and collaborator; able to work with a variety of teams and personalities, possessing excellent verbal and written communications skills.
• Excellent communication skills, including writing, proof reading, speaking and non-verbal expressive and receptive communication.
• Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain working relationships with all levels of the organization.
• Excellent interpersonal skills both in person and by phone, with high professionalism. Must demonstrate excellence in word choice, tone, and timing of written and verbal communications.
• Independent worker capable of managing multiple deadlines with little supervision.
• Must be able to manage multiple consecutive projects.
• Ability to problem solve and work independently in a changing and multi-tasking environment with numerous deadlines.
• Must be able to lead team.
• Demonstrated ability for accuracy, thoroughness and attention to detail.
• Demonstrated ability to prepare accurate budgets, forecast, and effectively manage expenses.
• Displays a friendly, professional, and courteous manner at all times when interacting with others. Accountable to high work standards, is dependable and reliable.
• Must be detail and action-oriented team player – with a focus on achieving quality results and an exceptional eye toward quality.
• Flexible work schedule and the ability to travel is required, up to 75% of the time. Ability to travel overnight during meetings and events, work off-hours and occasional evening/weekend work is required.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to stand for long periods of time.
• Ability to carry equipment/materials needed to events and meetings, up to 30 pounds; able to move furniture, equipment, and materials.
• Proven experience negotiating skills with hotels, entertainers and other event vendors.
• Possession of or ability to readily obtain a valid driver’s license.
• Satisfactory background check required.

Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University System Office as determined by the University System Office in its sole discretion; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. Offers are made expressly subject to the applicable federal and state laws, to the statutes, rules and regulations of this institution and to the Bylaws and Policies of the Board of Regents (BOR) of the University System of Georgia (USG), which are available for your inspection upon request.

The University System Office is an equal employment, equal access, and equal educational opportunity, and affirmative action institution. It is the policy of the University System Office to recruit, hire, train, promote and educate persons without regard to race, color, national or ethnic origin, age, disability, gender, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or veteran status as required by applicable state and federal laws (including Title VI, Title VII, Title IX, Sections 503, and 504, ADEA, ADA, E.O. 11246, and Rev. Proc. 75-50).

For questions or more detailed information regarding this policy please contact the University System Office Human Resources at 404.962.3242. Individuals requiring disability related accommodations for participation in any event or to obtain print materials in an alternative format, please contact Human Resources.