Events Manager - Venues at University of Waikato

Hamilton City, Waikato, New Zealand -

Full Time

Start Date

Immediate

Expiry Date

24 May, 26

Salary

100214.0

Posted On

23 Feb, 26

Experience

5 year(s) or above

Remote Job

Yes

Telecommute

Yes

Sponsor Visa

Skills

Event Management, Venue Management, Team Leadership, Operational Planning, Budget Management, Relationship Management, Stakeholder Engagement, Client Management, Strategic Oversight, Attention To Detail, Commercial Acumen, Problem Solving

Industry

Higher Education

Description

Strategic event leadership + diverse portfolio Campus-based role at our Hamilton site Collaborative team environment Ngā kōrero mō te tūranga – About the role We are seeking an experienced and commercially astute Events Manager – Venues to lead the delivery and growth of a diverse range of events in our premier venues. Reporting to the Director, Development & Event Services and based at our Hamilton campus, this role sits within the Office of the Vice-Chancellor and plays a pivotal role in shaping exceptional event experiences across the University. You will lead a small team and oversee the successful planning and execution of a broad range of activities, including University ceremonies, internal events, external conferences and community engagements in our venues This is both a strategic and hands-on leadership position. You will ensure the effective utilisation of our venues, maintain high service standards, build strong internal and external relationships, and contribute to the continued development of a vibrant and professional event services function at the university. Salary will be in the range of $85,279 to $100,214 per year based on skills, knowledge and experience brought to the position. This is a full-time role (37.5 hours a week), based on our Hillcrest Campus. For more information on the role please see the position description. For a confidential conversation about the role, please contact Shaun van Praagh, Director Development & Event Services, shaun.vanpraagh@waikato.ac.nz. All applications must be submitted through the online portal, emailed applications will not be accepted. Ko wai koe? – Who are you? You are an experienced events professional with proven leadership capability and a strong track record in delivering complex, high-quality events. You will bring: Significant experience in venue or event management, ideally within a multi-stakeholder environment Demonstrated ability to lead, motivate and develop a small team Strong operational planning and organisational skills Experience managing budgets and delivering against financial targets Excellent relationship management skills with the ability to work confidently with senior stakeholders, suppliers and external clients A solutions-focused approach with sound judgement and attention to detail You thrive in a dynamic environment, balancing strategic oversight with practical delivery, and are committed to creating exceptional event experiences that enhance reputation and engagement. Ko wai mātou? – Who are we? The Development & Event Services Division sits within the Office of the Vice-Chancellor (OVC), the Chief Executive Office of the University. The Division leads, and has responsibility for, a range of services, facilities and business units which support university operations for staff, students, alumni and the wider community, comprising the following teams: Events and Conferencing – All university events, both internal and external, across all campuses. Venues – The Pā and the Gallagher Academy of Performing Arts Development and Alumni Relations – University Foundation, Engagement with alumni, benefactors, and external stakeholders. Sport & Wellbeing – UniRec, Social Sport Leagues, Esports, Wellbeing Hub, Swimming Pool, Tauranga Sport & Rec. He aha ngā take me tono mai ai koe? – Why should you apply for this position? We want you to be part of our success! Our University stands proudly on the world stage as a provider of future-focused, international education and an active player in global research. Our rankings reflect these strengths. Working with us means you’ll enjoy a satisfying work environment with many benefits. The University of Waikato is distinctive for the diversity of its staff and students and encourages applicants with the relevant capabilities from all backgrounds to apply. Applicants must have the legal right to live and work in NZ in accordance with the NZ Immigration regulations which can be found here. Ko te Tangata – For the People The University of Waikato prides itself on the quality of its engagement with the communities that it serves, the provision of a world-class education and the national and international impact of its research. Our policies are guided by the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi and equal opportunity for all. E herea ana te Whare Wānanga ki te kaupapa kia whakaratohia te mea angitū ōrite ki ngā tāngata katoa. Applications Close on March 8, 2026 Requisition number: 1003417

Responsibilities

This role involves leading the delivery and growth of diverse events, including university ceremonies, conferences, and community engagements, while ensuring effective venue utilization and high service standards. The manager will lead a small team and balance strategic planning with hands-on execution across the university's premier venues.