Director of Events Operations | Full-Time | Navy Pier Events Facility

About the role

Oak View Group (OVG) is the global leader in premium live entertainment infrastructure and services, with a platform spanning venue development and end-to-end capabilities across venue management, hospitality, and sponsorship sales. Founded in 2015, the company serves a collection of seven world-class owned venues and a client roster of the most iconic arenas, stadiums, convention centers, music festivals, performing arts centers, and cultural institutions, spanning four continents.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the planning, setup, execution, and breakdown of all events at Navy Pier, ensuring smooth transitions between events.
• Manage all aspects of event operations, including staffing, client communication, and vendor coordination.
• Work closely with third-party vendors such as Aramark for housekeeping and event operations, ensuring quality standards are met.
• Cook up with NPI on maintenance and engineering issues to ensure the facility’s infrastructure is in optimal condition for events.
• Recruit, train, and manage a team of Event Managers, Event Coordinators, and support staff.
• Provide ongoing training and performance evaluations, and implement disciplinary procedures when necessary to maintain a high-functioning team.
• Meet with GM on a regular basis to discuss all matters pertaining to day-to-day operations and events as required.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for event clients, advising them on the facility’s requirements and additional services.
• Ensure client satisfaction by addressing their needs promptly and resolving any concerns during the event.
• Prepare and manage the Event Operations budget, monitor expenditure, and forecast staffing and operational needs.
• Aid in developing cost estimates for event services and ensure accuracy in post-event billing.
• Oversee event set-up, teardown, and facility conversion, ensuring timely and efficient transitions between events.
• Coordinate with Aramark on staffing needs and logistics to ensure the venue is properly prepared for each event.
• Ensure all events comply with local, state, and federal safety regulations.
• Work with NPI to maintain safety protocols and ensure the facility meets health and safety standards for events.
• Establish and uphold high standards for customer service.
• Quickly and efficiently resolve client concerns, using conflict resolution skills to ensure successful outcomes for both clients and staff.
• Oversee event logistics, including audiovisual services, food & beverage, event security, and crowd management.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to ensure all aspects of the event are executed flawlessly.
• Negotiate contracts with service providers as needed, ensuring that all services are delivered according to contract terms and client expectations.
• Review service agreements to confirm they meet the event’s requirements and regulatory standards.
• Cook up with NPI to ensure that all facility systems (e.g., HVAC, lighting, fire protection) are in proper working order.
• Inspect event spaces to ensure they are ready for use and that all safety protocols are in place.
• Ensure proper documentation for all events, including post-event summaries, vendor reports, and operational feedback.
• Use these reports to recommend improvements and streamline event processes.
• Implement strategies to improve event operations, reduce setup times, and increase operational efficiency.
• Regularly review event processes to ensure they align with Navy Pier’s goals for excellence.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in business, Hospitality Management, or a related field required.
• 5-7+ years of experience in event management, preferably within a large public assembly facility (convention center, arena, or similar), with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
• Proven experience in managing and leading teams, including the recruitment, training, and evaluation of staff.
• Strong ability to build a positive team culture focused on performance and client satisfaction.
• Experience working with third-party vendors, especially in areas such as housekeeping, facility maintenance, and event setup.
• Ability to negotiate contracts and manage vendor relationships effectively.
• Familiarity with facility maintenance processes and the ability to collaborate with maintenance teams (e.g., NPI) on operational and safety issues.
• Strong financial management skills, including budget preparation, cost estimation, and expenditure tracking.
• Ability to provide accurate financial reports for event operations.
• Thorough understanding of local, state, and federal safety regulations and compliance requirements.
• Experience developing safety protocols and managing risk during large events.
• Exceptional customer service skills, with the ability to manage client relationships and resolve conflicts effectively.
• Proven problem-solving skills in fast-paced, high-pressure environments.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and event management software.