Director of Conferences

Position Summary

As a Christian university, Olivet Nazarene University exists to provide an education with a Christian purpose. We value diversity as a means to enrich and deepen the educational experience, both inside and outside the classroom and online. We are committed to recruit and retain mission-aligned faculty and staff from diverse backgrounds. We strive to be a more inclusive community as we seek to understand and celebrate our unique experiences and perspectives.

Olivet Nazarene University is seeking a highly organized and customer-focused professional to join our Conference Services team.
This position plays a vital role in advancing the university's mission by connecting with our local community, supporting the Church of the Nazarene, recruiting prospective students, and generating auxiliary revenue through conferences, camps, and special events hosted on campus.

The Conference Services Coordinator serves as the primary contact for external event partners, oversees the scheduling and coordination of campus facilities, and collaborates with departments across the university to ensure successful events and exceptional customer service.

This role experiences a seasonal rhythm, with the busiest period occurring March through August, particularly during May, June, and July. During peak event seasons, flexibility is required, including occasional evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Event & Client Relations

• Recruit, develop, and maintain relationships with conference and event clients, with a strong focus on summer programs and camps.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for event organizers from initial inquiry through event completion.
• Promote ONU as a preferred destination for conferences, camps, retreats, and special events.

• Coordinate and manage the comprehensive summer event schedule for campus facilities.
• Review, approve, and coordinate requests for campus space during the academic year.
• Evaluate and approve requests for use of major campus venues, including large auditoriums.

• Prepare and manage contracts, insurance documentation, invoices, receipts, and related records.
• Maintain accurate event schedules and client information.
• Assist with budgeting, billing, and revenue tracking as assigned.

• Serve as the liaison between event clients and campus departments, including Facilities, Dining Services, Residence Life, Public Safety, Athletics, and Information Technology.
• Ensure all logistical arrangements are coordinated and communicated effectively.

• Attend and oversee events for which Conference Services is responsible.
• Respond to event-related needs, troubleshoot issues, and provide exceptional customer service to guests and stakeholders.
• Support event setup and operational needs as required.

• Recruit, train, schedule, and supervise approximately six student employees during the summer season and one student employee during the academic year.
• Foster a positive and professional work environment while supporting student development and success.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required

• A lifestyle in agreement with the ONU Statement of Mission, Faith, and Lifestyle Covenant.
• Strong interpersonal and customer service skills.
• Excellent organization, planning, and multitasking abilities.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to problem-solve and make sound decisions in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and other standard business software.
• Ability to work independently while managing multiple priorities and deadlines.

• Experience in event planning, conference services, hospitality, admissions, customer relations, or a related field.
• Experience coordinating multiple stakeholders and managing projects.

Additional Information

WORK ENVIRONMENT
This position combines office-based administrative work with active event management across campus. Responsibilities include frequent communication via email and phone, contract and schedule management, and regular interaction with clients and campus partners.
During peak summer months, the role involves extensive walking throughout campus facilities, monitoring events, addressing operational needs, and ensuring a positive guest experience. Occasional physical activity, including moving or setting up tables, chairs, and event materials, may be required.

SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
The annual salary for this position is $55,000. Additional considerations will be made for relevant experience and educational background.

Only candidates who submit all required documents will be considered: resume, cover letter, statement of faith, application questions. Applications will be accepted until position is filled.

Olivet Nazarene University offers:

• Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental insurance.
• Employer retirement contribution begins on first day of full-time employment and is 100 percent vested at that time.
• Additional auxiliary coverage such as life insurance, disability insurance and AD&D insurance.
• Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick, personal, and bereavement leave and 18 days for the observance of holidays.
• Tuition remission granted to employee, spouse, and dependent children for education within Olivet’s distinguished academic programs.
• Access to an active campus life with a top-notch fitness center, enriching musical performances, competitive athletic competitions, and introduction to the sciences at our Stickler Planetarium.