The Becker Friedman Institute for Economics (BFI) works with the Chicago Economics community to turn its evidence-based research into real-world impact. BFI takes a unique approach to bridging the divide between academic researchers and decision-makers in the business community and government by translating and packaging the rigorous work of the Chicago Economics community into accessible formats, and proactively sharing those findings with relevant decision-makers and thought leaders around the globe. BFI is a collaborative platform serving the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, the Kenneth C. Griffin Department of Economics, the Harris School of Public Policy, and the Law School. For more information visit https://bfi.uchicago.edu.
Job Summary
The job is responsible for the overall management of Becker Friedman Institute for Economics (BFI) events and conferences, as well as the day-to-day operations of the BFI visitor program. The position reports to the Executive Director and the Senior Director for Policy, Communications & External Affairs, and manages the Events Manager and Events Associate to ensure high-quality execution of event-related programming hosted by the BFI.
Responsibilities
Working directly with the Executive Director, manages operations of the BFI visitor program, including the development of annual budgets, communications with faculty hosts and visiting scholars, management of visitor calendar and office space allocation.
Serves as point of contact for visiting scholars to coordinate travel, including visa requirements when applicable, ensures required financial documentation is received and assists with scheduling campus meetings and activities during visits.
In coordination with the BFI Director of Development and Executive Director, supports stewardship programs for the visitor program.
Working directly with the Senior Director for Policy, Communications, and External Affairs, oversees the development and implementation of all BFI events, including: faculty and student-driven events, academic conferences, workshops, and student summer camp; BFI-China virtual seminars and workshops aimed at Asian and US audiences; and external facing newsmaker events on relevant policy issue.
Works closely with the full events and communications teams under the direction of the Senior Director of Policy, Communications, and External Affairs on event marketing to ensure strategic goals for each event are met.
Develops annual budgets and track expenses throughout the year for BFI events and visitor program, in close partnership with the BFI's Associate Director of Finance and Operations.
Manages contract negotiations and the selection of vendors.
Manages and provides leadership for two direct reports.
Guides research, including vendor selection and contract negotiation. Keeps track of all expenses, prepares reports on costs, solves complex problems as they arise.
Implements ideas for improvement as they are identified in addition to providing post-event feedback on turnout and vendor performance.
Performs other related work as needed.
Minimum Qualifications
Education:
Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.
--- Work Experience:
Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 5-7 years of work experience in a related job discipline.
--- Certifications:
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Preferred Qualifications
Education:
Bachelor's degree.
Advanced degree.
Experience:
A minimum of 4 years of management experience overseeing direct reports.
Working knowledge developing and monitoring budgets.
Conference and event planning, as well as program management, within higher education.
Background working closely and collaboratively with senior leadership and faculty.
Technical Skills or Knowledge:
Demonstrated skill and knowledge of or ability to learn quickly, the internal workings of the University.
Proficient in Microsoft Windows Suite, including Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
Preferred Competencies
Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, as well as organizational skills.
Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, set priorities, and meet tight deadlines.
Budget management skills.
Demonstrate effective decision-making with the ability to work independently, as a team member, and under supervision.
Demonstrated ability to work effectively and diplomatically with colleagues, as well as with students, faculty and senior leadership; easily establish rapport and cultivate relationships with individuals both inside and outside of the organization.
Professional demeanor, including tact, discretion, and a customer service-oriented approach.
Able and willing to work irregular hours, including occasional early mornings and late evenings to staff BFI events.
An exceptional work ethic and record of personal initiative.
Application Documents
Resume/CV (required)
Professional References Contact Information (3)(required)
When applying, the document(s) MUSTbe uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Resume/CV of the application.
Job Family
Communications
Role Impact
Individual Contributor
FLSA Status
Exempt
Pay Frequency
Monthly
Scheduled Weekly Hours
37.5
Benefits Eligible
Yes
Drug Test Required
No
Health Screen Required
No
Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required
No
Posting Statement
The University of Chicago is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity/Disabled/Veterans Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, status as an individual with a disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.
Staff Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.
We seek a diverse pool of applicants who wish to join an academic community that places the highest value on rigorous inquiry and encourages a diversity of perspectives, experiences, groups of individuals, and ideas to inform and stimulate intellectual challenge, engagement, and exchange.
All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history. A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment. Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.
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