Senior Events Manager, Sanford School Public Policy

Duke University:

Duke University was created in 1924 through an indenture of trust by James Buchanan Duke. Today, Duke is regarded as one of America’s leading research universities. Located in Durham, North Carolina, Duke is positioned in the heart of the Research Triangle, which is ranked annually as one of the best places in the country to work and live. Duke has more than 15,000 students who study and conduct research in its 10 undergraduate, graduate and professional schools. With about 40,000 employees, Duke is the third largest private employer in North Carolina, and it now has international programs in more than 150 countries.

Be You. Be Bold. Choose Duke.

Be You.

At Duke, we celebrate individuality and the unique perspectives that each member of our community brings. As the Senior Events Manager, you’ll be a vital part of a collaborative, interdisciplinary team at the Center for Child and Family Policy. Your work will help shape experiences that connect people, ideas, and research to improve the lives of children and families.

Be Bold.

The Center for Child and Family Policy (CCFP) is committed to enhancing the well-being of children and families through comprehensive research, education, and active engagement. We focus on examining the determinants of child outcomes, developing and evaluating effective interventions, and promoting evidence-based practices and policies to drive meaningful change and open opportunities for all children and their families.

As the Senior Events Manager, you will plan, organize, and execute major events for the Center, ensuring each initiative reflects our mission and commitment to excellence. You will also develop publicity strategies, create promotional materials, and collaborate across Duke to elevate the visibility and impact of our work.

Your responsibilities include:

• Major External Event Planning & Execution – 30%
  Lead the planning and management of flagship events such as the Sulzberger Distinguished Lecture Series (2–3/year), Early Childhood Initiative Series (3–4/year), and School Research Partnership events (1–2/year). Develop logistics and staffing plans and oversee both virtual and in-person event production.
• Marketing, Communications & Publicity – 15%
  Design and implement marketing plans, create promotional materials, manage event calendars and registration systems, and coordinate with the Sanford School Communications team.
• Budget & Contract Management – 10%
  Create and manage event budgets, negotiate contracts with vendors, and ensure compliance with Duke policies.
• Logistics, Vendor & Staff Coordination – 15%
  Supervise event personnel, provide AV support, and manage staffing schedules to ensure smooth execution.
• Stakeholder & Guest Relations – 10%
  Serve as liaison to high-level speakers and guests, representing the Center with professionalism and fostering relationships with local, national, and international partners.
• Internal Event Support – 10%
  Plan and manage internal events such as All-Center meetings, certificate student graduations, and staff gatherings.
• Cross-Campus & Strategic Collaboration – 5%
  Partner with other Duke units to co-host events and support strategic initiatives.
• Other Duties & Special Projects – 5%
  Support ad hoc projects and contribute to strategic planning for high-profile initiatives.

Choose Duke.

Join the Center for Child and Family Policy, where we are committed to enhancing the well-being of children and families through research, education, and engagement. Your leadership in event strategy and execution will help amplify our mission and foster meaningful connections across the Duke community and beyond.

What You Bring:

• A bachelor’s degree in journalism, public relations, communications, English, or a related field
• At least two years of experience in writing and event planning (three or more preferred)
• Strong communication, strategic planning, and organizational skills
• Experience with digital media, marketing, and social media management
• Familiarity with college student communities, especially Duke
• Ability to manage multiple events under tight deadlines
• Proficiency in WordPress, Canva, Adobe Creative Suite, and graphic design
• Excellent interpersonal and leadership skills
• A proactive mindset and ability to work independently and collaboratively

Anticipated Pay Range:

Duke University provides an annual base salary range for this position as USD $59,829.00 to USD $86,700.00. Duke University considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position; candidate's work experience, education/training, and key skills; internal peer equity; as well as market and organizational considerations when extending an offer.

Your total compensation goes beyond the dollars on your paycheck. Duke provides comprehensive and competitive medical and dental care programs, generous retirement benefits, and a wide array of family-friendly and cultural programs to eligible team members. Learn more at: https://hr.duke.edu/benefits

Essential Physical Job Functions:

Certain jobs at Duke University and Duke University Health System may include essential job functions that require specific physical and/or mental abilities. Additional information and provision for requests for reasonable accommodation will be provided by each hiring department.

Ready to Make a Difference?

Apply now and help us build a stronger, smarter, and more connected future.