Director of Operations

ABOUT LEGENDS GLOBAL | HUNTINGTON PLACE

Legends Global is redefining excellence in live events, venue management, and hospitality. With a global portfolio of 350+ iconic venues and a 360° approach that integrates Partnerships, Premium Experiences, Merchandise, Technology, and Operations, Legends Global delivers world-class results for clients and unforgettable moments for guests.

At Huntington Place Detroit — the 16th largest convention center in the United States — that global expertise meets Detroit’s energy, innovation, and resilience. Together, we’re shaping the future of live experiences in the heart of the Motor City.

THE ROLE

The Director of Operations leads the day-to-day operational heartbeat of Huntington Place, ensuring events, logistics, venue readiness, sustainability initiatives, and operational teams execute at the highest level.

This role oversees Production Services (event setup), Environmental Services, logistics, waste management, and landscaping while driving operational consistency, safety, customer service, and financial performance. The Director of Operations serves as a strategic leader, culture builder, and operational problem solver in one of the most fast-paced live-event environments in the country.

Success in this role requires decisive leadership, strong communication, operational agility, and the ability to lead teams through high-pressure, high-visibility events with professionalism and accountability.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Direct all day-to-day operational functions including Production Services, Environmental Services, logistics, waste management, and landscaping operations.

• Ensure all spaces are event-ready and maintained to exceptional operational, safety, and presentation standards.

• Lead operational planning and execution for conventions, trade shows, meetings, entertainment events, and community functions.

• Develop and implement operational policies, procedures, workflows, and service standards.

• Resolve operational challenges quickly and effectively during live events and critical situations.

• Drive sustainability initiatives throughout the venue and champion environmentally responsible operations.

• Participate in LEED recertification efforts and sustainability reporting initiatives.

• Support recruitment, onboarding, coaching, and performance management of operational teams.

• Foster a culture of accountability, teamwork, safety, and customer service excellence.

• Develop and manage departmental operating budgets and monitor labor and operational expenses.

• Analyze operational performance and identify efficiencies and cost-saving opportunities while maintaining service quality.

• Manage vendor relationships, contracts, and outside service providers.

• Oversee inventory and lifecycle management of operational equipment and provide recommendations for replacement or decommissioning.

• Participate in long-range facility planning and capital improvement projects.

• Prepare leadership briefs, operational reports, and presentations for executive leadership and Board-level discussions.

• Ensure clear, concise, and timely communication across departments and operational stakeholders.

• Investigate, analyze, and resolve operational concerns, service gaps, and customer complaints.

• Ensure compliance with OSHA standards, fire and life safety regulations, emergency procedures, and applicable building codes.

• Maintain flexibility to support nights, weekends, holidays, and extended operational schedules based on event activity.

Other Duties

• Perform all other duties as assigned, including special projects.

KEY DELIVERABLES

• Safe, seamless, and event-ready venue operations.

• High operational performance across Production and Environmental Services teams.

• Strong financial stewardship and budget management.

• Successful execution of sustainability and LEED-related initiatives.

• Positive client, guest, exhibitor, and stakeholder experiences.

• Effective cross-functional communication and operational alignment.

• Consistent compliance with safety and operational standards.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, Facility Management, or related field preferred.

• Minimum seven (7) years of operations or venue management experience, preferably within a convention center, arena, stadium, hotel, or large-scale event venue.

• Proven leadership experience managing large operational teams in fast-paced environments.

• Strong budgeting, vendor management, and operational planning experience.

• Exceptional organizational skills with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects simultaneously.

• Outstanding written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with sound operational judgment.

• Ability to adapt quickly to changing priorities and operational demands.

• Demonstrated ability to lead through high-pressure situations while maintaining professionalism and composure.

• Customer-focused mindset with a commitment to operational excellence and service delivery.

• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite including Excel and the ability to learn event management and scheduling software platforms.

• Ability to foster collaboration, accountability, and positive team culture across multiple departments.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

Competitive salary commensurate with experience, plus:

• Medical, dental, and vision benefits starting day one

• Paid vacation, holidays, and sick time

• 401(k) with company match

WORKING CONDITIONS & PHYSICAL DEMANDS

This position operates onsite in a large, high-traffic, live-event environment requiring continuous coordination across operational departments and event activity. The role requires frequent walking throughout the facility, prolonged standing, navigating event floors and back-of-house spaces, and responding to operational needs in real time.

The Director of Operations must be able to work flexible schedules including evenings, weekends, holidays, and extended hours based on event demands and operational priorities.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY

Huntington Place / Legends Global is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer, encouraging Women, Minorities, Individuals with Disabilities, and Protected Veterans to apply. VEVRAA Federal Contractor.