Convocation and Special Events Planner

Department: Ceremonies and Events

This position is represented by the agreement between the Professional Staff Association and the University of Guelph

Temporary full-time from 01/06/2025 to 04/30/2026 
Temporary Absence of the Regular Incumbent
 

If you are a current employee of the University of Guelph you must apply on the internal Career Page in order to be considered as an internal applicant. 
 Career Opportunities (sapsf.com) 

General Purpose
The Convocation and Events Planner develops, manages and executes high-profile events that are guided by the vision, mission and goals of the University, that celebrate the history and identity of the university and contribute to a sense of community.  
 

The purpose of all events is to develop and/or advance the profile of the University locally, nationally and internationally. The Convocation and Events Planner showcases the contributions the University makes to the world around us and supports strategic interaction with various constituencies, including the campus community, alumni, sponsors, donors, funding agencies and all levels of government.   

Duties and Responsibilities
Reporting to the Associate Director of the Office of Ceremonies and Events, the incumbent executes a complex schedule of events that carry significant reputational risk if not executed successfully.  Planning for strategic ceremonies and executive events requires a high degree of leadership over many months in collaboration with many different and diverse units across campus. It is critical that the incumbent operates in a collaborative leadership role ensuring strong communication and attention to detail in all aspects of planning. They liaise with individuals at various levels of leadership within the organization, across all three campuses, and outside of the University.  As a key and visible member of the Office of Ceremonies and Events during high profile events, the individual, as much as the event, represents the University to the broader community.   

The incumbent must be dexterous and willing to respond to unexpected changes that require significant shifts in planning to meet the expectations of the many invested parties involved in University ceremonies. The ability to prioritize and balance often competing needs while always maintaining a positive and professional approach to planning is critical. The incumbent must possess the ability to independently assess a situation quickly, recognize when matters are of a serious nature and handle them with expediency. Events in all circumstances are required to exhibit the University to its best advantage, represent the values of the University and show off the unique features illustrated by the special event.  An essential attribute for this position is the ability to review all activities critically to ensure that continual improvements and event objectives are achieved.

Requirements

• Two (2) year Community College graduation. Undergraduate Degree in public relations, communications, marketing, or administration is preferred.
• Three (3) years of relevant experience in event planning or a similar role
• North American Association of Commencement Officers Certification (Preferred)
• Excellent oral and written communication
• Excellent interpersonal skills, organizational skills and the ability to work with tight deadlines
• Must be able to work independently and as part of a team

Employee Type: Cover
Position Number: 10551002 
Classification: P&M FT- Band 01    
Professional/Managerial Salary Bands 
 

At the University of Guelph, fostering a culture of inclusion is an institutional imperative. The University invites and encourages applications from all qualified individuals, including from groups that are traditionally underrepresented in employment, who may contribute to further diversification of our Institution.

Posting Date:  11/20/2024  
Closing Date:  12/04/2024