District Winery-Director of Events(Relocation assistance offered for candidates relocating from outside the local market)The Director of Events will have full responsibility for the oversight and operational performance of the Event Venue. This includes ensuring maximum guest satisfaction through planning, organizing, directing and controlling the administration and management of the salaried and hourly staff. The goal of this role is to guide and develop managers and team members to be their best while delivering excellent customer service to clients, and ensure core operations are meeting/exceeding the Company's high standards.
Core ResponsibilitiesEvent Management and Logistics:- Create and implement event execution procedures to meet Company vision and standards
- Manage labor costs and meet labor budget targets
- Develop strong communication and line reporting procedures to guide service implementation, making improvements or changes where required
- Implement safe working practices
- Coordinate with Facilities Manager (or similar position) to ensure cleanliness, setup and breakdown of the space for events
- Work with Director of Sales to ensure event/client expectations are executed appropriately
- Ensure compliance with all company policies and procedures, including but not limited to: time & attendance, dress code, cell phones, and standards of service
Team Support:- Develop and implement training programs for event staff to include, but not limited to, mastering food and wine knowledge, alcohol service and awareness training, proper steps of service, and customer service skills
- Recruit, manage, and terminate event staff in accordance with company policy and procedures.
- Coach and counsel Event Management Team in development and training of event staff and teamwork through real-time feedback and regular performance reviews
- Provide accountability and corrective action plans to managers and team members when necessary
- Lead weekly BEO Meeting and the distribution of all content for meeting: BEOs, floorplans, and any other required documents
Client Communication and Engagement:- Manage client relationships and respond quickly and efficiently to client questions and concerns. Anticipate potential client questions, issues and conflicts and proactively troubleshoot. Provide prompt problem resolution.
- Interface with back of house staff to ensure proper delivery and coordination of food service that meets client's expectations and First Batch standards
- Act as main point of contact for assigned event clients immediately following booking, throughout planning process, and during the event
- Create & maintain relationships with outside vendors. Maintain and update vendor protocols as needed
Qualifications - 5 years experience in event planning, execution, and management in the hospitality industry. Wedding experience is a must.
- 4+ years of team management experience overseeing event and banquet managers
- Ability to collaborate with culinary and sales leadership
- Skilled in anticipating client needs, proactively addressing challenges, and managing guest recovery.
- Ability to secure TIPs/Bassett Certified, ServSafe Food Handler Certification and/or City of Chicago Food Manager Certification
- Must have a flexible schedule with the ability to work weekends, nights and holidays
- Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, project management software, i.e., Teamwork, Canva, Tripleseat and G-suite
- Flexible schedule with all nights and weekends available
- Knowledge of and appreciation of wine strongly preferred
Essential Duties - Able to independently lift up to 25lbs for an extended period of time
- Must be able to walk and/or stand for 8-10 hours per day
- Hand-eye coordination
- Reaching, bending twisting, stooping
- Pushing and Pulling
- Lifting overhead
- Must be able to climb stairs in venue that have multiple level
Compensation- $110,000K - $120,000K annually plus bonus & gratuity
- Medical, Vision, Dental Insurance
- Commuter Benefits
- Paid Time Off
- Paid Sick Time
- Employee Discounts
