Job Summary:

Under the direction of the Director of Strategic Partnerships and Operations, this position coordinates event logistics and select marketing efforts for the Regional Engagement Center (REC) and University Village (UV), serving as the primary point of contact for groups utilizing these facilities. The role focuses on delivering high-quality event execution, professional on-site support, and targeted marketing for REC- and UV-supported initiatives, with limited assistance with Loper Spirit Shop and UNK Dining promotions as needed. Working closely with the Associate Director of Strategic Partnerships and Operations, this position supports recruitment efforts through event-level coordination while collaborating with university departments, vendors, and community partners to ensure services align with institutional goals and expectations. Work schedule consists of primarily M-F, 8am - 5pm.  Evening and weekends possible due to event and group reservations and needs.

Additional Info

Required Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in related field

Two years of experience in event coordination, marketing, community engagement, customer relations, hospitality, or other related area

• Knowledge of event operations and logistics, including planning, scheduling, room setup, vendor coordination, and on-site event support.

• Strong customer service and relationship management skills, with the ability to serve as a primary point of contact for internal and external clients.

• Ability to assist with and manage administrative and financial processes such as invoicing, billing coordination, and recordkeeping in compliance with university policies and procedures.

• Strong organizational, time management, and communication skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, event-driven environment.

• Ability to collaborate effectively with supervisors, colleagues, student employees, vendors, and community partners.

Preferred Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in marketing, business, event management, or hospitality

Five years of experience in event coordination, marketing, community engagement, customer relations, hospitality, or other related area

• Working knowledge of marketing and communication practices, including basic marketing design concepts, event promotion, and coordination with institutional branding standards.

• Experience supporting or coordinating community events, conferences, or programs involving multiple stakeholders.

• Ability to contribute creative ideas for new events, programs, and engagement opportunities, particularly in support of University Village initiatives.

• Experience working in higher education, nonprofit, hospitality, or a related environment with a focus on engagement or operations.

• Familiarity with contracts, vendor relationships, and customer billing processes

Additional Information

The ideal candidate is a highly organized, service-oriented professional who thrives in a dynamic environment and enjoys creating and coordinating events and community programs, supporting partnerships, and engaging with diverse audiences. This individual brings a strong attention to detail, sound judgment, and a collaborative approach to supporting the mission and vision of UNK, Strategic Partnerships and Operations, the Regional Engagement Center, and University Village. The successful candidate is comfortable balancing operational responsibilities with creative contributions and is motivated by delivering high-quality, mission-driven experiences for campus, community, and regional partners.

About Us:

The Office of Strategic Partnerships & Operations supports the University of Nebraska at Kearney's mission by advancing partnerships, engagement, and operational excellence across campus and throughout the region. The department provides leadership and coordination for auxiliary services, vendor and contract management, event operations, and strategic initiatives that enhance the student experience while strengthening relationships with community and regional partners.

A key area of focus for the office is the Regional Engagement Center (REC), a multi-use facility designed to serve as a hub for collaboration, conferences, community events, and outreach activities. The department works closely with campus units and external organizations to ensure the REC operates efficiently, effectively, and in alignment with institutional goals.

Strategic Partnerships & Operations also provides leadership for University Village, a mixed-use development adjacent to campus that supports long-term growth, economic development, and community engagement. Through oversight of partnerships, programming, and development coordination, the department helps ensure University Village fulfills its vision as a vibrant destination that benefits students, the university, and the broader region.