Director of Event Operations

Marriott•Philadelphia, PA

3d•$106,000 - $139,000

About The Position

The Director of Event Operations manages daily event service, banquet, and event technology operations and staff. The role leads the event operations team, including senior and other banquet managers, senior and other event service managers, and event technology and operations managers, and ensures the highest level of service throughout the event phase. The position maximizes revenue through event-phase upselling, manages costs to maximize profit, and is accountable for guest and employee satisfaction and the financial performance of the Event Operations Department. The director works with the management team on business plans and long-term strategies, establishes departmental goals and standards, oversees event logistics and event-phase administrative processes, and ensures function spaces, equipment, and inventory are properly maintained. The role manages departmental budgets and profitability, consults with customers about event requirements, leads and coordinates event operations teams, and maintains effective relationships with guests, clients, vendors, competitors, and other property departments. It also oversees staffing, communication, safety, training, certifications, and compliance with applicable standards and 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, and champion department standards, policies, and procedures.
Oversee event logistics for all events and administrative processes associated with the event phase and transitions between event phases.
Ensure function spaces and back-of-house areas are clean and maintained, and that furniture and equipment are maintained and inventory levels follow corporate guidelines.
Communicate and execute departmental and property emergency procedures, and ensure staff are trained in safety procedures.
Participate in MVP audits and level certification for technicians, and 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 revenues; monitor event management trends and review operational effectiveness annually.
Consult with customers to determine objectives and requirements for meetings, conferences, conventions, and other events.
Lead guest hospitality and customer service efforts, maintain customer satisfaction, and support retention and business growth through referrals and repeat events.
Lead Event Operations activities and meetings in support of the Event Management strategy, and coordinate Event Operations members of Event Delivery teams.
Work with the culinary team to ensure compliance with food handling and sanitation standards, and with Human Resources to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
Ensure regular, ongoing communication throughout event operations and communicate effectively with other property departments.
Maintain strong working relationships with guests and 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.