Manager, Operations

The Opportunity

We're looking for an Operations Manager who thrives in fast-paced, live-event environments and excels at bringing structure, discipline, and consistency to complex venue operations. This role serves as a core operational leader within Arena Operations—ensuring FedExForum is event-ready, safe, and operationally excellent every day.

You will own the execution of arena conversions, facilities operations, and event-day readiness, partnering closely with internal departments (i.e. Operations leadership, Event Services, Security, Engineering, Guest Relations) and external vendors. Your work will directly impact event execution and the overall guest experience by ensuring teams, systems, equipment, and processes are aligned and performing at a high level.

If you're a hands-on leader who balances strategic planning with on-the-floor execution—and you're energized by problem-solving, continuous improvement, and high-visibility operations—this role offers meaningful influence across the organization.

In This Role You Will

Arena Conversions & Event Readiness

• Lead and oversee all arena conversions/changeovers, ensuring accurate and timely setups for sporting events, concerts, and special events.
• Recruit, train, schedule, and develop conversions staff; manage performance, discipline, and recognition in accordance with company policies.
• Direct Operations Coordinators responsible for Changeover, Conversions, and Event Operations teams.
• Develop and maintain work plans, task assignments, checklists, and standard operating procedures to support efficient conversions and events.
• Review and approve timekeeping, labor allocations, and payroll submissions for conversions staff, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.

Facilities & Operations Management

• Plan, manage, and analyze daily operations schedules to balance service quality, labor efficiency, and material costs.
• Monitor and control labor and operating expenses in alignment with approved budgets.
• Oversee preventive maintenance programs for heavy lift, fleet, and operational equipment.
• Ensure staff are properly trained and certified in the safe operation of heavy equipment.
• Maintain inventories of equipment, tools, and supplies; support annual operating and capital budget planning.
• Coordinate pest control and related facility services.
• Investigate operational issues and complaints and implement corrective actions as needed.
• Attend and contribute to Operations and Event planning meetings; foster strong working relationships across departments.

Safety, Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure compliance with all applicable laws, codes, OSHA regulations, and company safety policies.
• Develop, implement, and update operational policies, procedures, and emergency response plans.
• Oversee contractor and vendor activities to ensure adherence to safety standards, venue requirements, and contract terms.
• Communicate safety expectations and operational directives clearly and consistently across departments.

Event Operations Leadership

• Coordinate operations activities with internal departments and external partners to ensure seamless event execution.
• Serve as Manager on Duty for events as assigned, providing real-time decision-making and issue resolution.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives to enhance operational efficiency and the guest experience.

Other Responsibilities

• Perform additional duties, as assigned to support arena operations and organizational goals.

The Experience You Will Bring

Essential:

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year college in Hospitality, Management or Maintenance Engineering and/or equivalent work experience in arena, stadium, or amphitheater operations;
• Three (3) years of experience in facility management, i.e. arena, convention centers, stadium, amphitheater or other medium-to-large scale public sporting venues;
• Must demonstrate knowledge of practices and procedures related to event set-up/conversions/changeover; typical methods and techniques for cleaning and maintaining the facility equipment; and proper use and care of hand and power tools;
• Keyboarding skills and computer proficiency with software knowledge including MS Office;
• Understand, work from, read and comprehend schematics, CAD drawings, and other related materials;
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills;
• Self-motivated with strong client relations and staff management skills;
• Demonstrated ability to carry out tasks in a reliable, productive and expedient manner and be able to adhere to strict deadlines;
• Ability to multi-task during moderate to high pressure situations;
• Ability to move about inside and outside various areas of the facility before/during/after events to interact with internal/external clients and supervise the work of employees during events;
• Ability to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds;
• Ability to operate equipment such as light trucks, pallet jacks, forklifts, boom lifts or other light power drive equipment;
• Ability to work flexible and extended hours, including nights, weekends and holidays, in addition normal business hours;
• Organize and prioritize work to meet deadlines.

Preferred:

• Knowledge and passion of NBA and NCAA Basketball; experience in a sports/entertainment venue, arena or large-scale public event setting.

What We Offer

At the Memphis Grizzlies, we strive to support our team members through all stages of life with robust and attractive benefits, financial and wellness options and great perks. In addition to offering a competitive salary, we have other great benefits and perks.

Keeping You Healthy

• Industry leading health coverage
• Short and Long-term disability
• Team Member and Dependent Life Insurance
• Group Voluntary Benefits
• Wellness programs through EAP and Headspace

Discounts and Perks

• Matching 401(k)
• Employee Assistance Program
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Team Store Discounts
• Happy Hours and other fun activities
• Qualified parking and game night meals
• NBA Sponsored Discount Programs
• Employee Referral Bonuses
• Employee Recognition Programs

Taking Time Off

• Generous Paid Time Off
• Holiday Pay
• Paid Parental Leave

Memphis Basketball LLC is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to treating all applicants and team members fairly based on their abilities, achievements and experience without regard to race, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other classification protected by law.

Applicant Safety: The Memphis Grizzlies have been made aware of bad actors using our company's name for fake employment opportunities using social media and instant messaging platforms. The Memphis Grizzlies will never require candidates to send or deposit money in exchange for, or as a condition of, an offer of employment. The Grizzlies will also never ask for any sensitive personal information such as social security numbers, dates of birth, or bank account details via email, social media or messaging platforms, or during interviews. If you are contacted by anyone claiming to represent the Memphis Grizzlies and cannot confirm they are with our company, please contact us with the details.