2026 Event and Venue Operations Manager

Event and Venue Operations Manager

Location: Southwick’s Zoo & Galliford’s Restaurant
Position Open: 60 Days (Est.)
Start Date: April 2026 (Est.)
Department: Wild Events
Reports To: Director of Events
Works Directly With: Executive Event Chef, Sales & Event Specialist, Event Staff, Zoo Operations

Position Summary

The Event and Venue Operations Manager is responsible for coordinating and flawlessly executing events across multiple venues within the property. This role serves as the operational lead for all assigned social, corporate, nonprofit, and in-house events, ensuring seamless collaboration between internal departments and external partners to deliver exceptional guest experiences.

The Event Operations Manager oversees logistics, equipment, venues, staffing, timelines, and service standards while maintaining operational efficiency and brand consistency.

Our Team

The Wild Events team at Southwick’s Zoo and Galliford’s Restaurant is professional, experienced, and driven. We thrive on delivering incredible guest experiences through teamwork, positivity, and open communication. At Wild Events, you will find a challenging, exciting, and unique environment where your experience, ideas, and drive will have an opportunity to shine.

Key Responsibilities

Event Coordination & Execution

  • Serve as the primary operational contact for assigned events from planning through execution and post-event review
  • Coordinate event logistics including room setup, timelines, load-in/load-out, audiovisual, décor, and vendor requirements
  • Oversee on-site event execution, ensuring adherence to event orders, schedules, and service standards
  • Manage multiple concurrent events across different venues

Cross-Functional Collaboration

  • Partner closely with Sales, Culinary, Zoo Operations, Security, Maintenance, and Ownership
  • Communicate event details clearly through BEOs, event resumes, and pre-event meetings
  • Ensure alignment between client expectations and operational delivery

Staffing & Leadership

  • Schedule and supervise event staff, including banquet teams, supervisors, and support staff
  • Provide on-site leadership and real-time problem resolution during events
  • Train staff on service standards, safety procedures, and property policies
  • Maintain high standards of professionalism and guest service

Client & Vendor Management

  • Act as an on-site liaison for clients, planners, and vendors during events
  • Conduct event walkthroughs and pre-event meetings
  • Ensure vendor compliance with property guidelines and timelines

Financial & Administrative Oversight

  • Monitor event labor usage and operational costs
  • Assist with billing accuracy, event documentation, and post-event reporting
  • Identify opportunities for operational efficiencies and cost control

Safety, Quality & Compliance

  • Ensure compliance with health, safety, fire, and security regulations
  • Enforce risk management procedures and emergency protocols
  • Conduct post-event evaluations to ensure continuous improvement

Qualifications

  • Minimum 3–5 years of experience in event operations, banquet management, or hospitality operations
  • Experience in a multi-venue or high-volume event environment preferred
  • Strong organizational and multitasking abilities
  • Excellent communication and leadership skills
  • Proficiency in event management systems (e.g., Delphi, Tripleseat, Social Tables, or similar)

Skills & Competencies

  • Event logistics and execution
  • Team leadership and supervision
  • Problem-solving under pressure
  • Client service and relationship management
  • Attention to detail and time management
  • Budget and labor control

Work Environment & Schedule

  • Fast-paced, event-driven environment
  • Indoor and outdoor venues that operate year-round, rain or shine
  • Flexible schedule required, including evenings, weekends, and holidays
  • Physical demands include standing, walking, and lifting during events

Venue Overview

  • Galliford’s Restaurant
  • Southwick’s Zoo
  • Daniels Farmstead
  • Coffee Safari Trailer

Event Categories:

  • Public Events
  • Weddings
  • Social
  • Corporate
  • Nonprofit

Position Pay & Company Perks

This positions compensation starts at $50,000 - $70,000, based on experience and education in related field.

  • Work at New England’s most unique event venue
  • Collaborate with driven, passionate, and experienced colleagues
  • Employee outings and holiday parties
  • Employee event previews for Jack o’ Lantern Journey, Winter Wonderland, and more
  • Complimentary zoo admission
  • Event, food, and gift shop discounts

Pay: $50,000.00 - $70,000.00 per year

Benefits:

  • Employee discount
  • Flexible schedule
  • Health insurance

Work Location: In person

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