Sr. Manager, Partnership Event Operations

IN PERSON - HOUSTON, TX.
At Houston First, we are committed to providing our team members with a work environment where they can be themselves and recognized for the unique perspectives, they each bring forward. Diversity, equity, and inclusion aren't just buzzwords-they're woven into the way we run our business, and they're reflected in our culture.
Houston First markets the city as a destination for leisure travel and conventions. The Partnerships and Event Development department lead commercial activities across Houston First Corporation (HFC). This includes generating revenues and resources, developing strategic partnerships, and managing the creation, acquisition, operations, and growth of tradeshows, conferences, and events held annually in Houston. The Sr. Manager, Partnership Event Operations is responsible for the execution of operational functions across the portfolio of events and engagement with partners, stakeholders, vendors, and contractors.
DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES/ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Manage operational functions for events within the Partnership and Event Development portfolio;
• Develop short and long-term planning that supports the achievement of the business unit's goals and objectives;
• Participate in preliminary research, planning, due diligence and evaluation in the development or consideration of new events;
• Negotiate contracts and work directly with vendors, venues and stakeholders to execute event master planning and implementation, endeavoring towards operational excellence.
• Oversee budget development, projections, and expense management and processing for operational functions;
• Serve as a direct channel and organizational lead for production partners and operations contractors to ensure there is direct alignment with HFC leadership;
• Create and monitor master timelines and project milestones that will ensure smooth Event Operations and will enhance efficiency;
• Manage hotel room blocks and relationships with hotel partners;
• Manage travel logistics for participating event guests;
• Oversee volunteer initiatives, including recruitment, management, and deployment across events;
• Maintain accurate, organized, detailed and up to date records, files, databases, contacts, and budgets;
• Participate in team brainstorming for new idea generation, some of which may be outside operational responsibilities;
• Support the programming teams by identifying and cultivating relationships with businesses that would benefit from event participation;
• Conduct post-event evaluations, constantly assess, and identify operational issues, and look for solutions that could improve efficiencies, save resources, and/or improve the event;
• Manage or conduct other operational responsibilities that may not have been listed but are in service to the operational function of an event or the department.
• Other duties and special projects as required

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Manages operational teams and functions during the event

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor's Degree preferred or at least five (5) years of direct major Event Operations experience; preferred
• Project management experience preferred.
• Knowledge of Houston market a plus;

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Large format Event experience a must;
• Ability to multi-task and work in a high volume and stressful environment;
• Demonstrated ability to work and thrive in a fast-paced environment and execute effectively against multiple projects and deadlines;
• Ability to develop and effectively manage internal and external processes;
• High level of professionalism in both oral and written communications;
• Demonstrated ability to take initiative, anticipate needs and exercise independent and sound judgment;
• Proficient computer literate with excellent software skills (Microsoft Office Suite)
• Excellent professional oral and written communication skills