Event Manager

Churchill Downs Incorporated•Louisville, KY

1d•Onsite

About The Position

An Event Manager is responsible for planning, organizing and executing various type events on both race-days and non-race days at Churchill Downs Racetrack (CDRT). Event Managers contribute to the planning, preparation, and execution of The Kentucky Derby and All Race Meets. In addition to race-day responsibilities, Event Managers work with various special event cliental. These events can include, but are not limited to: weddings, internal trainings, corporate retreats, evening receptions, etc.

Requirements

Ability to positively address challenging situations
Strong organizational skills
Exceptional at communicating, both verbally and written
Ability to thrive in an ever-changing environment
Customer service minded
Excellent time-management skills
Ability to multi-task and develop strong professional relationships in all aspects of the position
Previous experience working in an entertainment / sporting facility, or a similar environment
Ability to create and communicate ideas / vision for various events
Prior experience in overseeing multiple event spaces and groups at one time is required
Must demonstrate prior experience in dealing with high level clients including dignitaries, officials, celebrities, premium ticket holder, club members, high stakes wagerers and/or members of the thoroughbred racing community.
People oriented, able to multi-task, be organized, motivated and detail focused
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and other related software

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s Degree preferred
Prior interaction with the public and/or working knowledge of the horse racing industry preferred

Responsibilities

Working cross-departmentally to understand event needs (sales, marketing, community relations, ticketing, etc.) and facility policies
Establishing and maintaining relationships with clients and vendors
Creating custom Banquet Event Orders (BEO) which detail: Facility needs, Food and beverage packages, Event timeline, Staffing needs
Creating custom diagrams for approx. 35 event rooms
Assisting team members on event days
Responding to day-of requests in a prompt manner
Promoting and providing exceptional customer service
Assisting and facilitating all events booked by Group Sales, Marketing, Premium Ticketing, Horsemen Relations and Community Relations.
Evaluating guest issues related to pricing, overcrowding, ticket discrepancies, seat locations, etc.
Ensuring courteous, professional, sincere, and responsive communications with all customers
Completing clerical and administrative tasks as necessary
Act as primary Churchill Downs representative in premium dining areas.
Performing light physical work required to set up events. Extensive walking is typically required
Perform other related duties as assigned