Senior Event & Operations Lead

Position Summary

We are seeking a highly experienced, strategic, and execution-oriented Senior Event Center & Operations Lead to oversee day-to-day management, operational excellence, and event execution standards for a high-profile event center in the Bay Area. This role requires a polished, senior-level events professional who can operate independently, manage complexity, guide junior team members, and elevate the overall quality of the event experience. This individual will serve as the lead operational partner for the event center, ensuring readiness across venue operations, planning processes, stakeholder communications, and event execution.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day operations of the event center and the events taking place within the space

• Lead event planning and execution support for internal and external events hosted at the venue

• Manage complex venue logistics including catering, security, facilities coordination, vendors, run-of-show planning, and on-site readiness

• Navigate permitting, compliance, city coordination, and external approvals as needed

• Act as the senior escalation point for operational and event-related issues, resolving challenges quickly and effectively

• Review event requests, plans, and stakeholder needs to ensure a high-quality, client-ready experience

• Provide strategic guidance on event design, flow, guest experience, and overall execution quality

• Coach and support junior event managers, helping elevate planning rigor, service levels, and decision-making

• Standardize workflows, improve documentation, and implement stronger planning and communication processes across the team

• Track timelines, action items, risks, and follow-ups to ensure work is progressing efficiently

• Partner closely with internal stakeholders to ensure priorities, expectations, and approvals are aligned

• Deliver clear weekly updates summarizing priorities, progress, risks, and support needed

• Maintain visibility into budget-related planning, staffing impacts, and operational needs tied to the space

Ideal Candidate Profile

• 8–12+ years of experience in event management, venue operations, executive events, or complex corporate event environments

• Strong experience managing high-touch events and venue operations in fast-paced, matrixed organizations

• Proven ability to work independently with minimal oversight while maintaining excellent stakeholder communication

• Strong executive presence and the ability to make sound decisions under pressure

• Ability to lead through ambiguity and adapt quickly to changing priorities

• Proven ability to mentor or guide junior team members

• Strong written and verbal communication skills

• Solutions-focused and low ego

• Strong understanding of what constitutes a polished, high-quality event experience in a premium environment

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supporting large enterprise organizations or complex corporate event programs

• Experience managing event centers, flagship venues, or executive briefing/event environments

• Familiarity with regional venue operations and permitting processes

• Background working across both strategic planning and hands-on execution

• Ability to identify gaps, recommend improvements, and proactively solve operational challenges before they escalate