Senior Event Manager

The Senior Event Manager oversees the Event Management Department at @the Grounds and ensures the successful planning and execution of events across the campus. This role provides leadership and supervision to Event Managers, Event Coordinators, and the Greeting Team, and coordinates with internal teams to deliver exceptional guest and client experiences.

This position requires strong leadership, organizational skills, and the ability to manage multiple events and priorities simultaneously. The Senior Event Manager is expected to work a flexible schedule, including nights, weekends, and holidays, based on event schedules.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

Oversee the daily operations and overall success of the Event Management Department.

Assist in the hiring, training, and support for the Event Managers, Event Coordinators, and the Greeting Team.

Create and manage schedules for the Events Team, Event Coordinators, and Greeting Team to ensure proper staffing for events and daily operations.

Track and monitor labor hours for the Events Team, Event Coordinators, and Greeting Team to maintain efficiency and meet operational needs.

Provide guidance to Event Managers and Event Coordinators to ensure consistent service standards and successful event execution.

Work directly with Event Managers and client groups to plan and organize meetings and events.

Guide clients through event preparation by interpreting and explaining contract provisions, venue policies, deadlines, and procedures.

Assist with the final event layouts, setup plans, and walkthroughs to ensure events are prepared according to client expectations and operational standards.

Provide clear, concise, and timely communication of event requirements to appropriate internal teams.

Maintain event-related reports, documentation, and departmental files.

Serve as Manager on Duty (MOD) as scheduled, providing operational oversight during events and responding to guest, staff, or facility issues as they arise.

Maintain positive public relations with clients, patrons, vendors, and staff.

Develop and maintain effective working relationships with police, fire, EMT, and other safety organizations when necessary.

Approved timesheets for Event Managers, Event Coordinators, and Greeting Team staff.

Ensure compliance with all @the Grounds policies, procedures, and safety standards.

Perform other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Strong knowledge of event management, venue operations, and hospitality industry standards.

Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously.

Demonstrated leadership and supervisory experience, including staff scheduling, training, and performance management.

Strong organizational and time management skills.

Ability to remain calm and exercise sound judgment in high-pressure or time-sensitive situations.

Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Ability to work independently while exercising initiative and professional judgment.

Proficiency in Microsoft Office programs, including Word and Excel.

Willingness to work nights, weekends, and holidays.

Comfortable working around animals typically found at fairs (e.g., cattle, pigs, dogs).

Ability to walk and stand for extended periods and move throughout the campus during events.

Ability to work both indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions.

Ability to lift up to 40 pounds.

Education/Experience:

Minimum 2-3 years of event management experience, preferably in arenas, stadiums, or event facilities.

A degree from an accredited four-year college or university is preferred.

Experience with public facilities, festivals, and live event production