Director of Event Operations

Marriott•Chantilly, VA

23h•$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 oversees the event operations team, including Senior Banquet Managers, Banquet Managers, Senior Event Service Managers, Event Service Managers, and Event Technology and Operations Managers. The Director ensures high service standards throughout the event phase, maximizes revenue through event-phase up-selling, 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 business plans and long-term strategies, sets and monitors departmental goals, oversees event logistics and administrative processes, and ensures that spaces, equipment, inventories, safety procedures, and required certifications are maintained. It manages department budgets and operational effectiveness, builds customer satisfaction and repeat business, leads event operations teams and meetings, coordinates with property stakeholders, and carries out staffing, event planning, and human resources responsibilities. Marriott International describes itself as an equal opportunity employer committed to non-discrimination and an inclusive environment. JW Marriott highlights associate well-being, training, development, recognition, and a luxury hospitality work environment.

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 event operations standards, policies, and procedures.
Oversee event logistics and administrative processes, including transitions between event phases for the service delivery team.
Ensure function spaces and back-of-house areas are clean and maintained, and ensure furniture and equipment are maintained and inventory levels meet corporate guidelines.
Communicate and execute emergency procedures, ensure staff are trained in safety procedures, participate in MVP audits and technician level certification, 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 current event management trends and integrate them into operations; review operational effectiveness annually and make appropriate adjustments.
Consult with customers to determine objectives and requirements for meetings, conferences, conventions, and other events.
Demonstrate leadership in guest hospitality and customer service, maintain customer satisfaction, and support retention and business growth through referrals and repeat events.
Lead event operations activities in support of the Event Management strategy and lead event management and operations meetings.
Coordinate Event Operations members of Event Delivery teams and 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, and ensure regular ongoing communication across event operations.
Communicate effectively with other property departments 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 challenges or conflicts.
Attend pre-event meetings to understand group needs, set expectations, and gather information for the Event Operations Team.
Ensure disciplinary procedures and documentation follow Standard Operating Procedures and Local Standard Operating Procedures and support the Peer Review Process.