Alumni Events Director

University of Southern California • Los Angeles, CA

1d • $100,000 - $120,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

The USC Alumni Association seeks an Alumni Events Director who is a creative strategist, collaborative partner, and experienced event leader to oversee signature programs that engage the Trojan Family worldwide. Reporting to the Executive Director of Alumni Experience, this role manages a diverse portfolio of high-profile events, including Alumni Awards, Homecoming, Football Weekenders, and the Volunteer Recognition Dinner, while also providing event expertise and support across the Alumni Association. The Director supervises a team of three staff members and partners closely with university leaders, alumni volunteers, and vendors to deliver events that deepen alumni engagement and strengthen a culture of philanthropy at USC. The role requires proven experience managing large-scale events, strong budget oversight skills, and the ability to lead with creativity, diplomacy, and operational excellence. This is a hybrid-fixed position under our current work arrangement plan, with the expectation of an on-site presence for 3 days/week on the University Park Campus. Late nights, weekends, and frequent out-of-town travel are required for this position. University Advancement is committed to non-discrimination and equal opportunity for all, where all advancement staff and our stakeholders have the opportunity to connect, belong, and grow while supporting the University of Southern California’s mission, values, and goals.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree. Combined experience/education as substitute for minimum education.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible event planning experience.
• Proven success in overseeing large, complex events and collaborating with diverse stakeholders.
• Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Knowledge of relevant event-related software, CRM, marketing, and communications tools.
• Ability to perform well under pressure, individually and as part of a team.
• Late nights, weekends, and travel are required for this position.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with university events.
• Understanding of the Los Angeles event market.
• In-depth experience with budget development and implementation.
• Familiarity with strategic planning and translating department goals into event execution.
• Knowledge of one or more foreign languages (e.g., Spanish).

Responsibilities

• Event Planning & Management (40%): Lead the planning and execution of USC’s alumni event portfolio, ensuring alignment with institutional priorities and alumni engagement goals. Innovate event formats with hybrid, digital, and sustainable practices to reach diverse alumni audiences globally. Develop and manage event budgets, ensuring fiscal responsibility while identifying opportunities for sponsorship, partnerships, and cost-saving strategies. Track impact through alumni feedback, data, and CRM integration to measure ROI and inform future planning.
• Team Leadership (20%): Directly supervise three full-time staff members as well as student workers and volunteers. Manage, mentor, and inspire a high-performing team of professional staff, student workers, and volunteers. Promote a culture of excellence, collaboration, and creativity that supports professional growth and excellence in event execution. Oversee workload management, scheduling, and performance evaluations, ensuring team members are equipped to deliver on goals. Serve as a role model for servant leadership and continuous improvement.
• Event Logistics & Experience Design (20%): Direct all logistical planning for events, including timelines, run-of-show, accessibility, and safety protocols. Partner with campus departments and external vendors to deliver high-quality, seamless event experiences. Integrate technology, design, and engagement strategies that elevate the attendee experience. Ensure compliance with university policies, ADA requirements, and industry best practices for risk management and safety.
• Stakeholder & Vendor Engagement (10%): Serve as the primary liaison to university leadership, alumni boards, donors, and external partners for event planning and execution. Negotiate contracts and build long-term partnerships with vendors to optimize quality, service, and value. Collaborate with Advancement colleagues to integrate events into broader engagement and fundraising strategies.
• Market Research & Innovation (10%): Monitor trends in event management, alumni engagement, and the Los Angeles market to keep USC events relevant and compelling. Test and implement new strategies for alumni engagement, including interactive formats, targeted outreach, and digital platforms. Support revenue-generating events and evaluate opportunities for growth and sustainability. Provide data-informed recommendations to advance event strategy and enhance alumni experiences.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager