Program and Events Manager

Summary

The Or Initiative and Presidential Studies programs at Chapman University seek a Programs and Events Manager to support the planning, implementation, and administration of their research programs and academic events. This position will play a central role in ensuring the success of both programs’ day-to-day operations and events. The ideal candidate will have experience in both administrative support and event coordination in a higher education or research-focused environment, be highly organized and proactive, and a central part of the programs’ teams. The Program and Events Manager is a full-time, exempt position that supports both the Or Initiative and Presidential Studies, with time and responsibilities divided based on program needs (approximately three-fifths of time dedicated to the Or Initiative and two-fifths to Presidential Studies). Both programs are housed within the School of Communication at Chapman University. This is a hybrid position requiring three days per week in-office in Orange, CA, with additional days in-office needed during event weeks. The Or Initiative is a new program dedicated to fostering civil discourse among middle school, high school, and college students, with a particular emphasis on the Middle East conflict, combating antisemitism, and other politically contentious issues. The Or Initiative’s work includes development of evidence-based curriculum, educator trainings, research and evaluation, and events and convenings. Presidential Studies is an interdisciplinary initiative focused on the American presidency, exploring its historical, political, and cultural significance. It offers students opportunities for research, internships, and engagement with presidential scholarship and archives, emphasizing civic education, leadership, and the study of executive power in U.S. history and contemporary politics.

Responsibilities

Program Management Develop and maintain clearly organized, efficient digital file systems to support project management and team communication for Or Initiative and Presidential Studies programs Manage shared calendars for program staff and set up coordinated activities, events, and internal and external meetings. Monitor and administer program and project revenues and expenses; may participate in the development of new funding proposals. Provide logistical, travel, and scheduling support to program directors and staff. Maintain accurate and organized event documentation, budgets, and correspondence. Serve as main contact for students, faculty, staff, other departments, and/or external constituencies on day-to-day programmatic, operational, and administrative matters. Monitor and administer program/project revenues and expenses; may develop or participate in the development of funding proposals for the program. Maintain program and project records and support development of data reports and summaries. Event Management Plan and execute campus events including symposia, workshops, speaker series, and convenings for Or Initiative and Presidential Studies. Manage event logistics such as venue booking, catering, AV setup, vendor contracts, press releases and inquiries, and on-site coordination. Promote programs through print and digital channels in collaboration with Chapman U communications staff. Track event attendance and feedback, manage mailing lists, and prepare post-event assessments and summaries. Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree desired. An equivalent combination of education and progressive professional experience may be considered. At least three years of experience in program management, event planning, or administrative operations, preferably in a university, research institute, or nonprofit environment. Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects, coordinate cross-functional teams, and oversee program operations from planning through execution. Proven success supervising or mentoring staff, student workers, or project teams. Strong organizational and time-management skills with the ability to balance multiple priorities under tight deadlines. Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to draft and edit professional correspondence, reports, and marketing materials. Comfort interacting with diverse stakeholders, including students, faculty, administrators, and external partners. High level of discretion, diplomacy, and professional judgment, and ability to maintain confidentiality. Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and Teams, Google Workspace, and other task/project management tools such as Asana and Trello. Ability to use and learn enterprise systems (e.g., PeopleSoft, Salesforce, Eventbrite). Experience managing digital filing systems, calendars, and event logistics using collaborative platforms. Ability to gather, interpret, and report on data to support program goals and budget management. Familiarity with budgeting, financial tracking, and cost-control procedures.