Exhibition Hall Event Services Manager

North Charleston, SC, USA|Onsite

Job Overview

Employment Type

Full-time

Hourly

Compensation

Salary

Range $46,800.00 - $68,300.00

Work Schedule

Weekend Shifts

Benefits

Medical insurance

Vision Insurance

Dental Insurance

Life insurance

Disability insurance

Paid Time Off

403(b) with company match

Free or discounted tickets

Employer Paid Parking

Job Description

The Charleston Gaillard Management Corporation is a prestigious non-profit organization located in downtown Charleston, SC, renowned for its commitment to promoting and supporting the performing arts in the Southeast. Established in 2015, the Charleston Gaillard Center has quickly become a vibrant cultural hub known for commissioning, presenting, and hosting ambitious multidisciplinary performances that attract local, national, and international artists. The venue features the impressive 1,818-seat Martha and John M. Rivers Performance Hall along with a versatile 26,000-square-foot Exhibition Hall, which includes the Grand Ballroom, Salons, and Terrace Lawn. This center not only offers world-class entertainment but also thrives as a community platform for meaningful dialogues and arts education programs, fostering inclusive cultural engagement throughout the region.

The Exhibition Hall Event Services Manager (ESM) at the Charleston Gaillard Center plays a critical role in ensuring the success of numerous diverse events held within the Exhibition Hall, such as conferences, trade shows, banquets, and corporate functions. This full-time, hourly, non-exempt position requires evening and weekend availability to oversee event planning and execution from initial contract handoff through completion and invoicing. Reporting directly to the Director of Event Services, the ESM is responsible for managing all operational aspects of assigned events and supervising the Exhibition Hall Houseperson along with part-time event services staff.

The role demands exceptional organizational skills, keen attention to detail, and a strong client-centered approach. The manager coordinates closely with internal departments including Sales, Technical Services, Food and Beverage, Security, Facilities, and Parking to guarantee flawless event logistics and ensures compliance with safety standards and building policies. Responsibilities include leading client meetings, developing event timelines, creating and updating floor plans, assigning and training event staff, and providing leadership during event execution. The ESM also assists in budgeting, labor forecasting, and managing event expenses, contributing to the financial success of the department.

This position offers an enriching opportunity to work in a dynamic environment where operational excellence and superior customer service meet artistic and community-driven goals. With a strong focus on teamwork and client satisfaction, the Exhibition Hall Event Services Manager is integral to maintaining the Gaillard Center's reputation as a premier event venue and performing arts institution in the Southeast. Candidates will thrive in this role if they are proactive problem solvers, effective communicators, and able to lead diverse teams to meet and exceed event expectations consistently.

Job Requirements

Ability to move, transport, and/or position up to 35 lbs of various equipment and materials
Using trade tools and accessing remote locations of the building
Activities may require sustained periods of standing, movement, traversing, and positioning to meet facility and event demands
Work may include prolonged periods of sitting, typing, or looking at a computer screen

Job Qualifications

Minimum of 6 years combined education and/or professional experience in event services, hospitality operations, venue management, or related field
Proven experience managing event execution in a multi-use venue environment
Experience supervising staff and coordinating labor teams
Strong organizational, time management, and problem-solving skills
Strong client service orientation and ability to remain calm under pressure
Ability to communicate professionally with clients, vendors, and internal teams
Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Adobe PDF, and Google Workspace
Experience working in a conference center, exhibition hall, performing arts center, or similar venue preferred
Familiarity with event software such as Momentus Elite, Social Tables, Event Draw, and/or Vectorworks preferred
Food & Beverage operations experience (catering sales or catering operations strongly preferred)

Job Duties

Manage all assigned Exhibition Hall events from contract handoff through final invoicing and settlement
Lead client detailing meetings, site visits, and walkthroughs to ensure all event logistics are confirmed
Develop and maintain event timelines, run-of-show documents, staffing plans, and load-in/load-out schedules
Create and update floor plans and room diagrams for all assigned events
Ensure proper coordination of event setup, strike, and operational execution across all function spaces
Serve as the primary on-site supervisor during events to ensure exceptional client experience and operational excellence
Supervise the Houseperson (Exhibition Hall), including scheduling, training, performance management, and daily event assignments
Oversee scheduling and supervision of part-time event services staff and contracted labor as assigned
Ensure all event staff are properly trained, informed, and prepared for event execution
Provide clear leadership onsite during events, including directing setup/strike teams and resolving operational issues in real time
Coordinate event logistics with internal departments including Food & Beverage, Technical Services, Security, Facilities, and Parking
Maintain accurate equipment and furniture inventory (tables, chairs, staging, etc.) and oversee proper use, storage, and upkeep
Identify staffing needs and recommend efficiencies to reduce labor costs and improve execution
Monitor event spaces for safety and operational readiness, ensuring compliance with fire code and building policies
Serve as a primary point of contact for clients onsite and ensure client expectations are met professionally and consistently
Coordinate vendor logistics including load-in, access, staging, deliveries, and building rules compliance
Maintain strong working relationships with repeat clients and vendors to encourage long-term partnerships and repeat business
Ensure accurate documentation of event details, schedules, staffing, and operational requirements
Assist with event estimates, approvals, and event-related documentation required for billing
Support the Exhibition Hall Director of Event Services with budgeting, labor forecasting, and event expense tracking
Maintain event files and ensure all documentation is complete for post-event reconciliation
Perform other duties as assigned to support Exhibition Hall operations and event services team success