Program Manager I Student Support Services - Special Events Coordinator
University of MissouriHiring Department Tiger Garden - Division of Plant Science & Technology Job Description The Special Events Coordinator is responsible for leading the planning, design, coordination, and execution of floral services for university events, weddings, special occasions, and on/off campus functions. This position combines expertise in floral design, business development, event management, and student mentorship to operate a successful floral program while providing hands-on educational experiences for college students pursuing careers in the floral and event industries. The coordinator develops strategic partnerships with campus departments, alumni, community organizations, and external clients to expand the university's floral services and create real-world learning opportunities. This role serves as both an industry professional and educator, preparing students for successful careers through experiential learning, leadership development, and practical business experience. Essential Responsibilities Business Development & Client Relations Develop and maintain strong relationships with university departments, alumni, donors, local businesses, and community organizations. Market and promote university floral services to increase revenue and community engagement. Consult with clients to determine floral needs, design concepts, budgets, and event logistics. Prepare proposals, estimates, contracts, and invoices while ensuring exceptional customer service. Identify new business opportunities that support the educational mission of the university. Floral Design & Event Management Design and produce floral arrangements for weddings, university ceremonies, conferences, donor events, athletic functions, and special occasions. Coordinate all aspects of floral installation, delivery, setup, and event execution. Develop creative floral concepts that align with client vision and event objectives. Manage event timelines and collaborate with vendors, venue staff, and campus partners. Ensure high standards of design quality, presentation, and customer satisfaction. Budgeting & Financial Management Develop and manage annual operating budgets. Monitor revenues, expenses, inventory, and profitability of floral operations. Purchase flowers, plants, hard goods, and supplies while maintaining cost-effective inventory practices. Analyze financial performance and implement strategies to improve operational efficiency and revenue generation. Student Leadership & Workforce Development Recruit, supervise, mentor, and train college students employed within the floral program. Provide hands-on instruction in floral design techniques, customer service, sales, event production, inventory management, and business operations. Foster professional development by preparing students for careers in the floral, wedding, event planning, and horticulture industries. Create meaningful experiential learning opportunities that integrate classroom knowledge with industry experience. Evaluate student performance and encourage leadership, creativity, professionalism, and teamwork. Program Operations Oversee daily floral shop operations and maintain a safe, organized work environment. Coordinate production schedules and staffing for multiple events simultaneously. Ensure compliance with university policies and industry best practices. Maintain equipment, floral inventory, and production facilities. Shift Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Minimum Qualifications A Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience and at least 2 years of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary. Preferred Qualifications Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Experience designing weddings and large-scale events. Experience supervising, mentoring, or teaching college-aged students. Knowledge of retail floral operations and inventory management. Experience with event planning, sales, and contract management. Professiona…