Manager, Hospitality and Operations

Pepperdine University•Malibu, CA

5d•$70,304 - $75,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Villa Graziadio Executive Center Manager of Hospitality & Operations serves as a key leader, partnering closely with the General Manager to oversee day-to-day operations of the University’s full-service guestroom and conference center. This role is responsible for leading event execution, supporting revenue-generating efforts, and ensuring operational excellence, reflective of Pepperdine University’s mission. Bringing excellence to all aspects of work, this position plays a critical role in delivering a seamless, high-quality guest experience, while assisting in building strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders. This role requires an operational leader with expertise in hospitality, event planning and execution, and customer service, with a strong focus on supporting revenue growth initiatives.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree.
Minimum of 3 years of experience or education in hospitality, event management, or a related field.
Exceptional interpersonal, communication, and customer service skills.
Strong organizational abilities and attention to detail.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
Availability to work various shifts, including overnight, weekends, and holidays.
High level of discretion, professionalism, and confidentiality.
Proficiency with event management software and Google systems.
Positive, solution-oriented, and service-oriented demeanor.
Commitment to the highest ethical standards and excellence in every aspect of work.
Passionate commitment to Pepperdine University’s mission, vision, values, and goals.

Nice To Haves

Professional hospitality experience.
Familiarity with Pepperdine University.
Experience or background in faith-based higher education.

Responsibilities

Lead end-to-end planning and execution of all events, including intake, contracts, catering, A/V support, event set-up and breakdown, invoicing, and payments, ensuring a premium, polished, hospitality-driven guest experience.
Provide clear, proactive, and professional communication with clients, team members, stakeholders, and vendors, ensuring an organized, seamless, and high-quality experience.
Identify and resolve issues quickly with professionalism and attention to detail.
Serve as the primary escalation point for guest and client concerns, ensuring timely and thoughtful resolution.
Uphold the highest standards of hospitality, communication, presentation, professionalism, and responsiveness, across all interactions and events.
Partner closely with the General Manager to oversee daily operations and ensure smooth, effective day-to-day operations.
Drive execution of operational priorities and service standards in alignment with leadership direction.
Act as on-site or on-call operational lead in the absence of, and as requested by, the General Manager.
Provide direct oversight and coaching to the Guest Services Coordinator.
Coordinate with Facilities, IT, and third-party vendors to maintain excellent guest services and facility standards.
Identify and resolve operational gaps with documentation, strong accountability, and follow-through.
Foster a collaborative, positive, mission-centered workplace culture.
Ensure compliance with University policies, local regulations, and health and safety standards.
Support revenue growth through client engagement, relationship management, and business development opportunities.
Build and maintain a strong pipeline of corporate, university, and external clients.
Identify opportunities to increase occupancy and event bookings in partnership with the General Manager.
Partner with the General Manager to develop and execute pricing strategy, event packages, promotions, and revenue optimization.
Collaborate on and execute strategic marketing efforts, including social media, email campaigns, website optimization, and promotional materials, to increase and enhance visibility, attract new clients, and support revenue growth.
Serve as a primary point of contact during emergency situations, ensuring leadership responsiveness and presence.
Coordinate response efforts and actions with Business Services division and University partners, including Public Safety and Facilities.
Support emergency protocols and communication to ensure the safety and well-being of guests and staff.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Uphold the University mission through all work performed.