Events Manager

ABOUT ALU

At the African Leadership University (ALU), we're more than just an institution—we're a catalyst for transformation. Our mission is to develop a new generation of ethical and entrepreneurial leaders who will shape Africa's future. Through our innovative curriculum, focus on experiential learning, and vibrant pan-African community, we empower students to become changemakers, problem-solvers, and innovators. At ALU, we're not just teaching; we're nurturing the leaders who will drive Africa's progress and prosperity in the 21st century.

We are dedicated to fostering an open yet secure environment, balancing the safety of students, staff, and visitors with respect for individual rights, and safeguarding responsibilities.

HOW WE WORK

As a high-growth start-up, the ALU Team works in starkly different ways to traditional academic bureaucracies. We approach education from first principles, empower individuals to design, test, and implement creative new ideas, and work closely together to craft transformative learning experiences. We are deeply passionate about our students and excited by the challenge of building something entirely new.  

The African Leadership University is committed to ensuring the safety and Well-being of all students under our care. As part of this commitment , we have a comprehensive safeguarding policy in place , which outlines our Zero-tolerance approach to any violation of safeguarding.

ABOUT THE TEAM

The ALU Events Team plays a pivotal role in curating high-quality, impactful events that align with the university's mission and values. We create and manage world-class experiences that bring together students, faculty, alumni, corporate partners, and global thought leaders. Our team thrives in a fast-paced environment that demands creativity, resilience, and collaboration. With a commitment to excellence, we ensure that every event reflects ALU’s high standards, fostering community engagement and showcasing the university’s leadership in Africa and beyond.

ABOUT THE ROLE

The Events Manager will be responsible for conceptualizing, planning, executing, and evaluating ALU’s key events. This role requires a strategic thinker who can handle high-level planning while also executing logistical details to ensure seamless event delivery. The Events Manager will work closely with internal teams and external partners to uphold ALU’s brand, manage stakeholder expectations, and maintain financial discipline—all while navigating the complexities of managing large-scale events with a limited budget.

The ideal candidate is an experienced professional with the expertise to handle complex stakeholders, manage conflicting agendas, and operate effectively in a dynamic and fast-growing environment. This role is both strategic and hands-on, requiring leadership in building systems and structures while also rolling up their sleeves to execute events to global standards.

ROLE RESPONSIBILITIES

• Strategic Planning & Execution
• Develop and execute event strategies that align with ALU’s goals and brand.
• Design innovative and engaging event experiences for diverse audiences.
• Establish clear event objectives and success metrics.
• Event Logistics & Operations
• Oversee all aspects of event planning, including venue selection, decor, catering, print materials, banners, and merchandise.
• Manage event logistics such as transportation for ALU employees and key stakeholders.
• Ensure the smooth delivery, implementation, and facilitation of all ALU events.
• Maintain and manage up-to-date copies of all content, slides, materials, and printouts.
• Stakeholder & Budget Management
• Partner with event hosts/owners to align on objectives, messaging, and execution.
• Navigate and manage relationships with complex stakeholders, including senior leadership, external partners, and VIP guests.
• Handle budget planning, invoicing, reconciliation, and financial reporting to ensure cost-effective event execution.
• Marketing & Communications
• Coordinate with ALU’s marketing team to ensure events are effectively promoted and communicated.
• Develop event materials, agendas, and schedules to enhance participant experience.
• Technology & On-Site Execution
• Oversee all technical aspects of events, including AV setup, streaming, and digital engagement tools.
• Ensure seamless execution of hybrid or virtual event components when required.
• Team Leadership 
• Manage, organise and mentor the Events team professionals, building expertise and experiential learning to deliver high quality and consistency for all ALU led events.
• Foster a collaborative and productive work environment, elevating the level of delivery and output of the team.
• Ensure the team collaborates and engages with internal and external stakeholders to deliver shared results and ultimately bring impact to the broader African Leadership ecosystem.

• Ensure the safety and well-being of all young persons and vulnerable adults with whom we deal,  by adhering to ALU’s comprehensive safeguarding policy, maintaining a zero-tolerance approach to any violations of safeguarding standards. 

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE

• Minimum 6-8 years experience in event management, conference planning, or a related; for complex entities including senior officials, VIP dignitaries, high net worth individuals, etc..
• Proven ability to manage large-scale, high-profile events with multiple stakeholders.
• Strong background in budget management and cost optimization.
• Experience working with executive-level stakeholders and managing VIP relations.
• Previous experience in an international, multicultural, or fast-paced environment is preferred.

REQUIRED COMPETENCIES

Functional Skills

• Event strategy development and execution
• Logistics and venue management
• Budget planning and financial reconciliation
• Stakeholder management and negotiation
• Marketing coordination and communications
• Technical proficiency in event-related technology and AV setup
• Hospitality and guest experience management

Soft Skills

• Strong problem-solving and crisis-management abilities
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to navigate complex stakeholder relationships and competing interests
• Adaptability and resilience in high-pressure environments
• Exceptional time management and organizational skills