Director of Event Operations

Marriott•Santa Barbara, CA

1d•$123,000 - $160,000

About The Position

The Director of Event Operations manages daily event service, banquet, and event technology operations and staff. The role oversees the event operations team, including Senior Banquet Managers, Banquet Managers, Senior Event Service Managers, Event Service Managers, and Event Technology and Operations Managers. It ensures a high level of service throughout the event phase, maximizes revenue through event-phase upselling, manages costs to maximize profit, and is accountable for guest and employee satisfaction and the department’s financial performance. The position works with management to develop and implement event operations plans and strategies, oversees event logistics and administrative processes, and ensures spaces, equipment, inventory, safety procedures, and certifications meet applicable standards. It manages budgets, evaluates operational effectiveness and trends, and supports customer satisfaction and business retention through excellent service and effective event delivery. The Director leads event operations teams and meetings, coordinates with event delivery teams and other property departments, and works with culinary and Human Resources teams to support compliance with food-safety standards, laws, and regulations. The role also reviews staffing, prepares teams for scheduled events, attends pre-event meetings, and ensures disciplinary procedures and documentation follow applicable operating procedures.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED and 4 years of experience in event management, food and beverage, sales and marketing, or a related professional area; alternatively, a 2-year degree from an accredited university in Hotel and Restaurant Management, Hospitality, Business Administration, or a related major and 2 years of relevant experience.

Responsibilities

Work with the management team to develop and implement the business plan and long-term strategies for event operations.
Establish and monitor measurable departmental goals.
Champion standards, policies, and procedures in Event Operations.
Oversee event logistics and administrative processes, including transitions between event phases.
Ensure function spaces and associated back-of-house areas are clean and maintained.
Ensure furniture and equipment are maintained and inventory levels follow corporate guidelines.
Communicate and execute emergency procedures and ensure staff receive safety training.
Participate in MVP audits and technician level certification; ensure employees maintain required certifications.
Assist with implementing and executing event-related corporate initiatives and promotions.
Keep the department within budget and adjust expenditures according to revenue.
Monitor event management trends and incorporate them into operations in a timely manner.
Review event operations effectiveness annually and make appropriate adjustments.
Consult with customers to determine objectives and requirements for meetings, conferences, conventions, and other events.
Demonstrate hospitality leadership and excellent customer service, creating a positive atmosphere for guest relations.
Maintain customer satisfaction to support retention and business growth through referrals and repeat events.
Lead execution of Event Operations activities in support of the Event Management strategy.
Lead event management and operations meetings and coordinate Event Operations members of Event Delivery teams.
Work with the culinary team to ensure compliance with food handling and sanitation standards.
Work with Human Resources to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
Ensure regular, ongoing communication across Event Operations.
Communicate effectively with property departments outside Event Operations and maintain strong working relationships with guests, clients, vendors, and competitors.
Review staffing levels to meet guest service and operational needs.
Work with direct reports to review scheduled events and troubleshoot potential challenges or conflicts.
Attend pre-event meetings to understand group needs, set expectations, and communicate critical information to the Event Operations team.
Ensure disciplinary procedures and documentation follow SOPs and LSOPs and support the Peer Review Process.