Student Engagement & Events Coordinator, Mike Ilitch School of Business

Wayne State University is searching for an experienced Student Engagement & Events Coordinator at the Mike Ilitch School of Business, Detroit campus location. Wayne State is a premier, public, urban research university located in the heart of Detroit, Michigan where students from all backgrounds are offered a rich, high-quality education. Our deep-rooted commitment to excellence, collaboration, integrity, diversity and inclusion creates exceptional educational opportunities which prepare students for success in a global society.

Essential functions (job duties):

• Assist in the planning, organization, and coordination of events - including meetings, programs, and signature initiatives - that support student success, alumni engagement, enrollment, and school visibility.
• Meet with planning committees and stakeholders to define event scope, goals, desired outcomes, and facility preparations; coordinate volunteers and staff assignments to ensure seamless event execution, as needed.
• Establish and monitor work plans and budget proposals; secure vendors, coordinate payment processing; and oversee the development of printing and promotional materials.
• Coordinate participant registrations, speaker support, catering, and custodial needs and serve as a liaison to venue and event service providers.
• Manage project scope and changes; identify potential risks and develop contingency plans. Prepare event briefings and run‑of‑show documents and conduct post‑event debriefings to identify lessons learned and opportunities for improvement.

• Assist with daily event setups, including room access, furniture, technical equipment, and materials, in accordance with event specifications.
• Provide onsite coordination and event management, serving as the primary point of contact during live events, as assigned.
• Support both internal and external group events with a focus on professionalism, timing, and guest satisfaction.

• Assist in maintaining event and operations documentation, calendars, and reports to ensure efficient communication and planning.
• Collaborate with the Director to maintain and update the team's Standard Operating Procedure manual and event checklists to ensure best practices and continuity of operations.
• Support student organizations in scheduling and planning meetings and events, ensuring alignment with school policies and collaboration with relevant departments and programs.
• Attend staff meetings, brainstorming sessions, and training activities as required.
• Assist with the mentorship and supervision of student assistants and volunteers, supporting their skill development, accountability, and contributions to a collaborative team environment.

• Monitor the cleanliness and appearance of public, meeting, and event spaces, perform light cleaning as needed and report issues to the Director of Events and Operations.
• Organize and maintain orderly storage areas; ensure timely removal or repair of damaged furnishings.
• Understand and assist with basic sound and video procedures for event spaces within the school.
• Provide backup support to the Director for building operations, including but not limited to managing incoming work order requests, responding to facility emergencies, and supporting event space reservations.

Education:

Bachelor's degree

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university or equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.

Entry level (less that a year of job‑related experience)

• Prior experience in event planning, student engagement, operations, facilities management, or hospitality required.

• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
• Excellent communication, problem‑solving, and interpersonal skills.
• Customer‑service‑oriented, dependable, and proactive in anticipating customer needs.
• Basic understanding of audiovisual systems and willingness to learn venue‑specific technology.
• Ability to lift and move furniture or equipment safely.