Special Events Operations Manager | Full Time | Lucas Museum of Narrative Art

Special Events Operations Manager

As Special Events Operations Manager, you will oversee operational execution for the museum's events program, ensuring every experience is delivered with consistency, polish, and attention to detail. This role will pay an annual salary of $85,000 - $95,000. Benefits for Full-Time roles: Health, Dental and Vision Insurance, 401(k) Savings Plan, 401(k) matching, and Paid Time Off (vacation days, sick days, and 11 holidays). This position will remain open until August 14, 2026.

Responsibilities

• Lead front-of-house operational planning and execution for private events, galas, receptions, and museum activations.
• Manage event floor operations with a strong focus on timing, communication, guest experience, and service standards.
• Build and maintain detailed event staffing plans, operational timelines, and service flow strategies.
• Partner closely with culinary, sales, and hospitality leadership to align execution with event vision and client expectations.
• Oversee setup, breakdown, room transitions, and operational readiness for all events.
• Manage and lead banquet captains, servers, bartenders, support staff, and external vendors during event execution.
• Ensure all events are executed with professionalism, urgency, and strong attention to detail.
• Support hiring, training, and development of the events operations team ahead of opening and ongoing growth.
• Maintain elevated service standards aligned with a luxury hospitality environment.
• Assist with labor management, scheduling, and operational cost controls for the events division.
• Act as a key problem solver during live operations, navigating changes and challenges with composure and leadership.

Qualifications

• 35+ years of experience in events operations, banquet management, luxury hospitality, or high-volume restaurant operations.
• Proven experience executing large-scale events with multiple moving parts and high service expectations.
• Strong leadership presence with the ability to confidently direct teams in live-event environments.
• Exceptional organizational, communication, and operational planning skills.
• Ability to remain calm, solution-oriented, and detail-focused under pressure.
• Strong understanding of banquet service flow, staffing models, and event logistics.
• Experience managing labor and operational efficiencies in high-volume environments.
• Passion for hospitality, guest experience, and creating memorable moments.
• Experience in luxury hotels, premier event venues, restaurants, or cultural institutions preferred.