Events Manager

Description: The Virginia Zoo, founded in 1901, is located in Norfolk, VA and is home to more than 700 animals representing over 150 species.
It resides on 53 acres and is mostly outdoors with an indoor World of Reptiles exhibit, 3 classrooms, and an indoor restaurant and gift shop.
The Events Manager is responsible for the success of special events at the Virginia Zoo.
They play an important role of designing, planning, executing, and providing post event analytics and information.
The Events Manager will partner with multiple internal departments and external vendors to ensure events are profitable, memorable, and successful.
On event days, they are responsible for managing operations of events and solving any issues that may occur and deliver excellent customer service.
This is a salaried exempt position that is benefits eligible.
This position reports to the Director of Guest Experience and manages the events department staff.
Schedule typically is Tuesday - Saturday, but may vary due to events or department needs.
Position will be required to work some nights and weekends for private events and special events.
Duties/Responsibilities: Manage the design, planning and execution of all Zoo special events, including ensuring proper events staffing presence during events.
Manage the private rental events (including but not limited to responding to inquiries, interdepartmental communication, and coordination).
Manage the execution of scheduling and walk-through tours for all events spaces.
Responsible for the positive revenue generation of all events (including but not limited to aiding in acquiring zoo sponsorship, external prospecting calls for private events, special events and birthday parties).
Manage the Events Department budget.
Track operating revenue and expenses specific to special events and private events and report findings to management for board meetings.
Observe ticket sales and identify various ways to increase traffic and request additional promotion as needed.
Utilize Point-of-Sale system for event needs.
Oversee supply procurement in alignment to Zoo mission and stewardship of money.
Manage pricing and scheduling of rental spaces (including but not limited to local activity and venues to maintain competitiveness).
Manage and maintain list of vendor and selections utilized at all events (including but not limited to caterers, DJs, all non-selling vendors, and food trucks).
Responsible for the recruitment, scheduling, training, development, and disciplinary actions of events personnel.
Manage daily operations and workload of events staffing.
Manage pre-event planning, meetings (including agendas), and post-event evaluation and survey distribution.
Proactively handle issues and troubleshoot emerging problems pre-event and during event day.
Responsible for submitting requests and approval of event collateral and sales materials.
Partner with Development Department to secure event sponsorship, fulfillment of benefits and retention of event sponsors.
Ensure Compliance with insurance, legal, health and safety obligations.
Manage and update databases utilized by events team for accuracy.
Partner with Education Department to manage calendar of all Virginia Zoo rental facilities, meeting rooms for internal and external customers and calendar of all zoo events.
Other duties as assigned.
Requirements: Required Skills/Abilities: Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.
Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines with multiple ongoing projects.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Resourceful self-starter with an ability to anticipate business needs.
Ability to prioritize tasks.
Ability to function well in a high-paced and at times stressful environment.
Ability to maintain high level of confidentiality of donor and prospect information.
Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.
Education and Experience: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in business, marketing, or a similar field.
3 to 5 years of venue sales and large event experience required.
At least 2 years of management experience.
At least 2 years of experience with planning and designing events.
At least 2 years of experience managing external vendors.
Physical Requirements: Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
Prolonged periods of standing and walking.
Must be able to lift up to 30 pounds capacity at times.
Additional Requirements Ability to maintain a professional appearance and manner.
Ability to work in a team environment or alone for extended periods of time.
Able to work indoors and outdoors in all weather conditions.
Must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
Perks For working at the Virginia Zoo! Positive, fun atmosphere.
15 Paid holidays Generous amount of PTO Comprehensive health, dental, vision, disability, life insurance, and retirement plan are offered following a 60-day probationary period.
Free Zoo membership.
Discounts in the gift shop and restaurants.
Free Behind-The-Scenes tour.
At Virginia Zoological Society, we believe that diversity fuels creativity and innovation.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, genetic information, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, marital status, non-job related physical or mental disability, or protected veteran status.
All Virginia Zoo Employees must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 The Virginia Zoo is a drug free workplace