Director of Event Operations

The Colorado Convention Center, managed by Legends Global, is a premier event facility located in Denver, Colorado. Renowned for hosting a wide variety of events, from large conventions and trade shows to cultural exhibitions and entertainment performances, the center is integral to the city's economic and social fabric. As a major hub for events in the region, the center prides itself on delivering exceptional experiences to event attendees, organizers, and stakeholders. The organization operates with a commitment to inclusivity and equal opportunity, encouraging diverse candidates to contribute to its continued success. Employment with the Colorado Convention Center/Legends Global offers a stable, salaried position with compensation for the Director of Event Operations ranging from $110,000 to $125,000 per year, based on experience. This position is classified as exempt under the FLSA and is a key leadership role within the organization.

The role of the Director of Event Operations is critical to the seamless execution and operational excellence of events held at the facility. Reporting directly to the Assistant General Manager, this directorate oversees multiple departments including Building Services, Housekeeping, Parking, and Technical Services, along with managing the Gift Shop and various third-party event-related tenants. Effective collaboration is a cornerstone of this role, as it involves maintaining strategic and operational relationships with the exclusive Food and Beverage provider and the Denver Fire Department to ensure both exceptional service delivery and compliance with safety regulations.

In this capacity, the Director of Event Operations establishes and oversees the goals, performance expectations, and daily objectives for the Event Operations Department and its management team. The position requires conducting performance evaluations, coaching managers, and ensuring a continuous focus on professional development and operational efficiency. The director is responsible for the recruitment, hiring, and training of all direct-report departments and managers, emphasizing a culture of excellence and consistent improvement.

Operational leadership extends to the development, implementation, and management of policies, procedures, and standards that align with the broader organizational goals of Legends Global. The director is tasked with administering progressive discipline in alignment with HR protocols and guiding departmental leaders through employee relations matters. Vendor management is also a key responsibility, including ensuring contract compliance, supporting the Request for Proposal (RFP) process, and evaluating vendor performance. As the primary liaison for various service contractors such as decorators and audio-visual providers within the facility, the director facilitates smooth operational interactions that contribute to successful event outcomes.

Facilitating effective communication across departments and with internal and external partners, the director acts as the central operational figure for all event-related needs. This includes direct involvement in executive, departmental, and event meetings, along with acting as Manager on Duty during events. The role demands proactive leadership in managing operational projects like process improvements, technology deployments, and service enhancements that enhance the overall event experience.

Budgetary responsibilities include developing and managing the Event Operations operating budget, supporting annual and multi-year budget cycles, and optimizing resource allocation based on event demand and service standards. The director oversees the floor plan review and approval process to ensure events meet assembly and fire code compliance, acting as the liaison with the Denver Fire Department for all permitting and safety matters.

The Director of Event Operations also supervises preventive and corrective maintenance for event equipment and special projects and collaborates closely with the Facility Operations Director during emergencies or major incidents impacting the facility. This collaboration extends to participating in after-action reviews to improve future responses. Furthermore, the role supports Sales and Event Management teams by providing expert guidance on technical and logistical challenges related to events.

Overall, this leadership position requires a highly engaged, detail-oriented individual with strong organizational, problem-solving, and communication skills. The successful candidate will embody the "One Team" culture model, demonstrating professionalism, discretion, and the ability to manage multiple priorities while supporting a diverse staff and clientele. This role is pivotal in fostering an environment where exceptional events come to life seamlessly and safely at the Colorado Convention Center, underpinning the venue's reputation for excellence and reliability.