Careers

Job Description:

• Provides onsite production help during events â“ including typically 2 to 4 evenings a week during peak programming months (about six months/year), and, very occasionally, during some weekend hours.
• Assists with identification and resolution of event and program needs, including vendor selection and contract negotiation. In support of the Assistant Director, keeps track of all expenses, prepares reports on costs, using existing procedures to solve routine problems as they arise.
• Supports the Assistant Director, Speaker Series with managing process for tracking and maintaining key Speakers Series metrics and audience feedback.
• Assists with researching creative event and speaker ideas.
• May create and manage event briefing documents.
• Manages guest release forms and retention of other Speaker Series data in IOPâ™s database.
• Ensures a positive guest experience for all IOP Speaker Series guests by supporting Assistant Director, Speaker Series by arranging travel, lodging, car service, and other comforts for all guests.
• Reviews and finalizes guest lists and facilitates sending invitations.
• Assists with management of event calendars (Box, Outlook and Google Calendars).
• Working with Assistant Director, Speaker Series, responsible for booking travel, hotel, transportation for all guests.
• Facilitates student sessions with speakers (registration process, selection, and oversight).
• Assists the Assistant Director, Speaker Series with coordination of AV needs for Speaker Series events.
• Plans and schedules events, programs, and outreach. Coordinates event-day logistics, and performs other routine assignments with guidance from others.
• Compiles data to be used in event and program evaluation. Contributes to improvements by implementing ideas as they are identified, with general direction from others.
• Performs other related work as needed.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience:

• 2 years of work experience in a related job discipline. 
• Experience in an editorial and/or programming environment, including journalism, broadcast programming, and/or live event production.
• Planning and managing budgets and contracts.
• Managing event logistics, including catering, venue selection, guest travel and RSVP processes.
• Interest in, and some knowledge about politics and public policy. 

Technical Skills or Knowledge:

• Proficiency with computers including Microsoft Office suite and Google docs.
• Knowledge of MS Office Suite.

Preferred Competencies

• In-depth knowledge of, and passion for, politics, public policy and current events (local, national and international).
• Superb research skills and demonstrated resourcefulness.
• Conceptualize timely opportunities for speakers and topics and to develop them into compelling events.
• Strong interpersonal skills.
• Exceptional verbal and written communications skills.
• Excellent time management skills, with the ability to prioritize and multi-task on deadline in a fast-paced environment.
• Interest/experience in working with young people.
• Approach contentious issues from all possible sides, with an eye towards fairness and accuracy.
• Strong background in guest/talent bookings.
• Strong organizational skills and superb eye for detail.
• Strong commitment to diversity.
• Solve problems and make decisions effectively.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively and effectively in a team environment with a wide range of constituencies including high-profile guests, senior leaders, Board members, colleagues, students and volunteers.
• Set priorities and meet deadlines.

Application Documents

• Resume/CV (required)
• Cover Letter (required)
• References Contact Information (3)(required)

The University of Chicago is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity/Disabled/Veterans Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, status as an individual with a disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.

Staff Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via the Applicant Inquiry Form.

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About University of Chicago (UC)

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