The University of Chicago seeks a Director of Marketing & Events for the Chicago Forum. Reporting to the Executive Director, you will lead integrated marketing strategy to amplify the Forum’s mission and oversee the full lifecycle of event planning, from conception to post-event evaluation.
What You'll Do
- Lead the planning, coordination, and execution of all Chicago Forum events, ensuring quality and mission alignment.
- Design and manage student event staff programs, including recruitment, training, and supervision.
- Oversee vendor research, selection, and contract negotiation; monitor expenses and prepare cost reports.
- Develop and manage intricate event logistics, anticipating and resolving operational challenges.
- Evaluate event effectiveness, propose enhancements, and apply lessons learned to future events.
- Collaborate with internal stakeholders to ensure timely and effective event marketing campaigns.
- Develop and implement integrated marketing campaigns that ensure consistent brand voice and visual identity across all channels.
- Oversee audience segmentation to ensure tailored communications to all Forum constituencies.
- Manage implementation and ongoing optimization of CRM tools for outreach and list management.
- Supervise and mentor the Digital Marketing & Communications Manager.
- Support evening and weekend events as required.
What We're Looking For
- A college or university degree in a related field.
- Knowledge and skills developed through 5-7 years of work experience in a related job discipline.
Nice to Have
- 5–7 years of progressively responsible experience in event planning and marketing, ideally in higher education or a mission-driven environment.
- Direct experience supervising and mentoring professional or student staff.
- Demonstrable expertise executing budget-conscious, detail-oriented event operations.
- Experience developing and implementing integrated marketing strategies, including digital, print, and social media components.
- Proven ability to negotiate with and manage vendors and contractors.
- Experience with CRM platforms and marketing automation tools.
- Exceptional organizational, communication, and project management skills.
- Demonstrated professionalism, initiative, discretion, and adaptability.
- A commitment to UChicago’s first principle of free inquiry and expression; familiarity with the University of Chicago a plus.
Technical Stack
- CRM platforms
- Marketing automation tools
Team & Environment
Reporting to the Executive Director within a collaborative, mission-driven team committed to engaging diverse perspectives and professional excellence.
Benefits & Compensation
- Salary range: $83,000.00 - $102,000.00
- Health, retirement, and paid time off benefits.
Work Mode
This is an onsite position in Chicago, IL.
The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law.
