Director, Event Development

Description

The Columbus Crew is seeking a Director, Event Development, that will be responsible for recruiting, developing, managing and implementing revenue- producing events at Lower.com Field and Historic Crew Stadium. Under the direction of the Vice President, Stadium Operations, the Director oversees all booking responsibilities from initial client contact and date holds to final settlement of the event.
The position will collaborate across the club and will prioritize exceeding expectations and ensuring exceptional client and fan experiences. A successful candidate possesses experience programming multi-purpose facilities and an overall understanding of event management.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Manage, develop and lead Event Development department, including event logistics, selling, and client relations.
• Establish, build and proactively maintain positive relationships with event organizers, promoters, and venue booking personnel.
• Actively pursue event organizers/ promoters for potential events and create proposals and/or deal terms while coordinating availability of venues.
• Remain current on industry developments and trends.
• Prepare, track and maintain proformas, estimates, deal proposals and contracts.
• Serve as the primary liaison between event personnel and Club departments, including but not limited to Marketing, Ticketing, Stadium Operations, Legal, Finance and Communications
• Actively engage and collaborate with food & beverage provider from initial conversation through event day execution.
• Collaborate with Haslam Sports Group Event Development Team to create secondary events and festivals at Crew properties
• Attend industry conferences, networking events and meetings as required to build relationships for future opportunities, in addition to cold-calling and lead generation to create new business.
• Ensure settlements for events are created and executed in a timely fashion.

Required Skills and Experience

• 5-7 years of experience in event development, booking and hospitality.
• Experience leading and managing event development and hospitality team.
• Availability to work a varied schedule, including nights, weekends and holidays, as needed based on events.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Proven success working in a fast-paced environment with a sense of urgency and ability to balance ever-changing priorities.
• Mindset that building and maintaining relationships throughout the industry and with clients is essential for success in the role.
• Ability to assess situations and problem-solve to find effective solutions should challenges arise.
• Walking through the stadiums and stadium grounds.
• Being a team player who proactively assists in the success of events, including when tasks fall outside of the standard job description.