Director, Event Operations

Columbus Crew•Columbus, OH

About The Position

The Columbus Crew is looking for a Director, Event Operations, responsible for the planning, coordination, and execution of events across the club's venue portfolio. This role serves as the central operational lead for event planning, ensuring alignment across departments and delivering consistent, high-quality execution across approximately 300 events annually. This role drives day-to-day operational discipline, proactive planning and cross-functional coordination and is a key bridge between strategy and execution. Responsible for ensuring that operational plans are clearly defined, communicated and executed at a high level across all events.

Requirements

5+ years of experience in event operations, stadium, or large venue management
Proven ability to manage complex event planning and execution
Experience leading teams and coordinating across multiple departments
Strong organizational and operational planning skills
Ability to manage multiple events and priorities in a fast-paced environment
Experience working within structured systems and processes, with the ability to improve them

Nice To Haves

Professional sports or major entertainment venue experience preferred
Master's degree
Events-related certifications (CVE, CVP or equivalent)

Responsibilities

Serve as the central coordinator for event planning, ensuring alignment across all departments involved in event execution.
Lead the planning and execution of events, including sporting, and private events, as well as large-scale external events, including concerts and festivals.
Develop and manage detailed event plans, timelines, and operational documents to ensure consistent execution.
Lead and develop the Event Operations team, inclusive of full-time and part-time staff.
Establish clear roles, responsibilities, and expectations for event planning and execution.
Provide leadership and direction to event-day staff and part-time personnel, ensuring alignment with operational standards.
Execute within established event systems and playbooks, ensuring consistency across all events.
Identify opportunities to improve planning processes and contribute to the refinement of operational systems.
Drive proactive planning and reduce last-minute execution through structured workflows and timelines.
Ensure event plans are executed effectively, and issues are resolved in real time through coordination with department leaders.
Partner closely with internal departments-including guest experience, safety and security, ticketing, partnerships, and facility operations-to ensure seamless event execution.
Ensure all stakeholders are aligned on event plans, timelines, and expectations.
Act as the primary point of coordination for event-related communication across departments.
Manage the Event Operations budget, ensuring alignment with event needs and organizational priorities.
Support efficient staffing models and resource allocation for events.
Monitor event-related expenses and identify opportunities to improve efficiency.