Event Center General Manager

American Dream•East Rutherford, NJ

About The Position

The General Manager for the American Dream Event Center oversees the center’s operations, including staff, event logistics, conventions, exhibitions, and large-scale events. The role drives revenue, operational excellence, and guest experience while maintaining high standards for safety, service, and profitability. It also manages budgets, negotiates vendor contracts, and coordinates with marketing and public relations teams to promote events. The General Manager develops and executes long-term plans aligned with American Dream’s brand and business goals, identifies opportunities for growth, and leads strategies to increase bookings and revenue. The position oversees daily facility operations, resource allocation, event logistics, safety compliance, and financial performance, and collaborates with marketing, sales, retail, and entertainment teams.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in business administration, Hospitality Management, Event Management, or a related field.
Minimum of 7–10 years of experience in venue management, event operations, or hospitality leadership.
Proven track record managing large-scale entertainment, retail, or exposition venues.
Familiarity with event production technologies, ticketing systems, and CRM platforms.
Strong understanding of building systems, vendor management, and logistics coordination.
Experience managing multimillion-dollar budgets, forecasting, and P&L accountability.
Skills in contract negotiation and cost-control strategies.
Demonstrated ability to deliver exceptional guest experiences in high-traffic environments.
Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends.

Responsibilities

Develop and execute long-term strategic plans aligned with American Dream’s brand and business goals.
Identify growth opportunities through new event formats, partnerships, audience engagement, branded activations, and recurring event series.
Develop and implement strategies to maximize revenue from events, sponsorships, concessions, and rentals.
Analyze market trends and competitor activity to identify business opportunities and strengthen the venue’s competitive position.
Lead strategies to increase event bookings, revenue, and guest experience quality.
Partner with marketing, retail, entertainment, and sales teams to align operations and attract high-profile events and exhibitions.
Conduct market research and develop pricing models and promotional packages to drive bookings and attendance.
Monitor operational performance and adjust strategic plans as needed.
Explore and implement technologies to enhance guest experience and operational efficiency.
Oversee daily maintenance and operations, ensuring facilities are safe, clean, and functional.
Manage scheduling and allocation of equipment, staff, and transportation.
Monitor event timelines, resolve logistical issues, and adapt plans to maintain smooth operations.
Ensure compliance with safety regulations and maintain emergency preparedness during events.
Track operational expenses and manage budgets for supplies, labor, and services.
Prepare annual budgets and monthly forecasts.
Track expenses and revenue streams to ensure cost control and financial efficiency.
Manage staff, event logistics, budgets, and vendor contracts.