Associate Director of Events in the Information Technology Group

Position Summary

Reporting to the Director of IT Projects, the incumbent is dedicated to producing live events in the Business School's event spaces, specifically responsible for recorded, live stream, graphics, accessibility/captions, and providing oversight of all technical aspects of events, and support to clients. The Associate Director of Events will be responsible for working closely with CBS' multimedia staff, event vendors, and supporting VIPs to deliver high-quality live and recorded broadcasts.

This role requires a strong technical background, excellent communication skills, and the ability to make informed decisions and exercise good judgment in a fast-paced live event environment.

Columbia Business School is a leader in its field, and the incumbent must be able to accommodate a corresponding level of expectations and outcomes. As the Associate Director of Events, you will be at the forefront of bringing our diverse range and high volume of events to life (high-profile/VIP gatherings, large-scale conferences, policy debates, etc.), captivating both our in-person audience and online viewers.

Responsibilities

Event Process Design & Implementation

• Working together with IT PMO, design and implement a process to ensure that CBS staff and guests have excellent A/V support for events. This includes process design improvements for submitting and managing requests, planning resources, staffing events (including vendor support) and follow up.
• Ensure appropriate process(es) in place to manage and support all third party vendors assisting in CBS events

Event Planning

• Manage the production staffing for live events, including training colleagues and hiring and managing third-party support when needed for additional coverage. Maintain and build relationships with third-party vendors who assist in event production at CBS. Ensure all vendors trained and familiar with CBS event equipment and associated processes and procedures.
• Responds to our clients' in-person, email, and telephone requests for event assistance on a wide-ranging one-on-one basis, providing concierge access to the range of services ITG provides. Retains ownership of all received requests to ensure follow through, from initiation to resolution. Follow up and interact with all clients to their satisfaction.
• Keep up to date with industry trends and emerging technologies related to live event production and streaming.

Event Execution

• Ensure the technical specifications and requirements for live event production are met, including audio, video, lighting, and streaming equipment. Oversee and manage all aspects of live event production, including AV set-up, video recording and live stream production and direction, graphics, accessibility/captions, and post-production/editing.
• Provide reliable and accurate switching and senior-level technical direction for high-profile live and recorded multi-camera broadcasts, as well as audio and video productions in our studio. Collaborate with event vendors, AV staff, and creative teams to plan and execute live events and video/audio production including broadcasting, podcast recordings, and more.
• Coordinate with captioning and accessibility services to ensure accurate and timely delivery of captions and accessible content.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required. Minimum 4-6 years related experience required.

• Must have demonstrated strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to explain technical issues to non-technical users. Strong customer service skills are required as is the ability to work and train with a wide variety of high-level constituents including faculty, students and staff. Must be detail-oriented, self-motivated, have the ability to self-train, and require minimal direction. The ability to manage multiple, parallel activities, work under pressure and organize time and resources is a must. Expert level knowledge of key systems, maintenance processes, and troubleshooting techniques. Demonstrates excellence in a variety of competencies including teamwork/ collaboration/ influencing, analytical thinking, communication, creative problem solving, leadership skills, and proven ability to act as a change agent and strategic partner.

• Prior supervisory experience, or management of an entire operational area, required. Demonstrated excellence in prior positions/role. Executive level presence and presentation abilities.

• Shifts and work days may fluctuate as event demands require.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in a higher education or other academic setting is highly desirable. Familiarity with accessibility standards and best practices for captioning and accessible content is a plus.
• Expert level knowledge of video and audio production equipment including High-Grade professional 4k cameras, DSLR cameras, podcast microphones and audio recording hardware.
• Expert level knowledge of video and audio editing software. Need to be familiar with Adobe creative suite- Premiere, After Effects, Audition, and Photoshop. Need to know how to color-correct, insert graphic titles, and key-out green screen.
• Need to be familiar with PC and MACs, Windows software. Live video and audio conferencing software.

Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran

Columbia University is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents.