Director of Operations

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Position Summary :

The Director of Operations at @the Grounds is responsible for overseeing and ensuring all operational aspects of the venue, including managing the Event Services Team (Parking, Concessions, Conversions, and Event Management).

This role ensures efficient, safe, and profitable execution of events from planning through post-event analysis. The Director of Operations also participates in the planning and execution of the annual Placer County Fair and 4th of July Celebrations.

Primary Responsibilities :

Operational Oversight :

• Lead the Event Services Team to ensure smooth and profitable execution of all events.
• Oversee daily operations, staff schedules, and adherence to policies while managing labor costs.
• Evaluate facility / business practices and recommend improvements to better reflect the needs of any customer or group, and / or to improve the efficiency and safety of day-to-day operations, in compliance with laws and regulations, policies, and procedures.
• Lead department meetings to review events, address challenges, and plan improvements.
• Act as Manager on Duty (MOD) during key events, resolving operational issues.
• Work closely with the Director of Facilities on all event operations and communication to ensure the overall success of events.

Team Management & Development :

• Train and mentor department managers and staff, ensuring alignment with goals and expectations.
• Manage staff schedules and maintain optimal staffing levels.
• Foster a positive company culture through team building and staff development.
• Ensure staff are trained in safety, customer service, and emergency procedures.

Budget & Financial Management :

• Develop and manage the operations budget, tracking expenditures and identifying cost-saving opportunities.
• Collaborate with the General Manager on financial reviews, including weekly Concessions and Parking reports and revenue growth strategies.

Strategic Planning :

• Develop and implement strategic short- and long-term goals to increase profitability using a combination of sales, building, and cost control, while ensuring a quality guest experience.
• Use data to adjust operational practices and enhance service levels.

Qualifications & Skills

• Strong business and financial acumen, with experience in budgeting and cost control.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to manage high-pressure situations and anticipate operational challenges.
• Knowledge of safety regulations and federal, state, or local laws.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and scheduling software.
• Experience in event, sports, or entertainment industries.
• Willingness to work nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Comfortable working around animals typically found at fairs (e.g., cattle, pigs, dogs).

Education & Experience :

• Minimum 7 years of event management experience, preferably in arenas, stadiums, or event facilities.
• Proven ability to lead large teams and improve operational efficiency.
• Experience with public facilities, festivals, and live event production.
• A bachelor’s degree in business administration or a related field is preferred (or equivalent experience).

Top Priorities :

• Ensure operational excellence across all events.
• Develop and support the Event Services Team for peak performance.
• Collaborate on strategies for growth and profitability.
• Maintain strict financial oversight through budgeting and reviews.
• Continuously improve customer service and guest satisfaction.

Working Conditions :

This full-time, exempt position may require extended hours based on business needs, including late nights, weekends, and holidays.

The role involves both office and physical work, requiring the employee to sit, talk, hear, handle objects, and stand for extended periods.

the Grounds is a non-profit organization managing the @the Grounds campus, home of the Placer County Fair, All-American Speedway, and Event Center @ the Grounds.

We host a variety of public and private events, including consumer and trade shows, festivals, corporate events, concerts, graduations, and other social events.

the Grounds is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages all qualified people to apply.

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