Dining Room and Special Events Manager

Keeneland Association • Lexington, KY

23d • Onsite

About The Position

The Dining Event Manager plays a vital role in the execution of Keeneland’s dining room service and special event operations across Race Meets, Sales, and year-round hospitality functions. This role supports both front-of-house dining and special events, ensuring seamless guest experience, strong team coordination, and operational consistency. Working closely with the Director of Dining, the manager will lead and support daily service, supervise seasonal teams, assist in planning and staffing logistics, and ensure each event or service operates at Keeneland’s high standard. The position requires exceptional time management, leadership, and interpersonal skills in a dynamic, fast-paced setting. A flexible schedule; including nights, weekends, and extended hours during Race Meets and special events is essential.

Requirements

• Minimum 3 years of front-of-house leadership or event management experience in hospitality, food & beverage, or special events.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills must lead with professionalism, clarity, and confidence.
• Ability to delegate effectively while maintaining oversight and accountability.
• Must demonstrate sound judgment, composure under pressure, and high emotional intelligence.
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to pivot and prioritize in a dynamic event environment.
• Proven ability to build systems and processes to support operational consistency and guest satisfaction.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite, catering/event software, and POS systems (Micros preferred).
• High school diploma or GED required.
• Ability to manage full-time and seasonal teams of 50+ employees during peak operations.
• Willingness to work extended hours including nights, weekends, holidays, and event days as needed.
• Must be on feet for extended periods, walk long distances, and move through large crowds in a fast-paced setting.
• Ability to lift up to 35 lbs. occasionally.
• Must be fluent in English; additional languages are a plus.
• Kentucky Horse Racing Commission license is required upon hire and will be provided by Keeneland Hospitality.
• Pre-employment background check and drug screening required.

Nice To Haves

• Previous experience in high-volume venues, luxury events, racetracks, or fine dining preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree in hospitality or a related field is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Support daily service and seasonal operations of Keeneland’s dining rooms under the direction of the Director of Dining.
• Lead shifts and actively participate in service to uphold standards and resolve operational challenges.
• Maintain a polished, professional presence and represent Keeneland Hospitality with confidence and care.
• Assist and, when assigned, take the lead in planning, preparing, and executing private events, race day activations, and corporate or group functions.
• Manage event setups, staffing assignments, guest flow, and floor execution to ensure exceptional service and operational efficiency.
• Ensure event environments meet or exceed guest expectations through proactive walk-throughs and real-time problem-solving.
• Interview, hire, train, schedule, and supervise front-of-house and part-time management teams (seasonal and year-round).
• Provide coaching and ongoing performance feedback.
• Enforce accountability, professionalism, and clear communication.
• Collaborate with the Dining and Event teams to ensure appropriate staffing for Race Meets and seasonal events.
• Assist in developing SOPs and service guidelines for dining and event operations.
• Attend and actively participate in all key meetings, including BEOs, pre-cons, daily standups, and staffing planning.
• Coordinate with culinary, beverage, and support teams to ensure event readiness and smooth service delivery.
• Serve as a primary point of contact for guests during events or dining service.
• Proactively address and resolve service concerns with professionalism and urgency.
• Maintain strong client and vendor relationships through consistent communication and follow-up.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED