Director Event Operations Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Oak View Group (OVG) is the global leader in premium live entertainment infrastructure and services, with a platform spanning venue development and end-to-end capabilities across venue management, hospitality, and sponsorship sales. Founded in 2015, the company serves a collection of seven world-class owned venues and a client roster of the most iconic arenas, stadiums, convention centers, music festivals, performing arts centers, and cultural institutions, spanning four continents. 

The Director of Event Operations is responsible for managing the planning, execution, and oversight of events at Navy Pier, ensuring exceptional service delivery while collaborating with internal departments and third-party vendors. This role will focus on event coordination, setup, and teardown, working closely with Navy Pier Inc. (NPI) for maintenance and engineering support and with Aramark for housekeeping and event operations. The Director will lead a team to deliver high-quality events and ensure the facility is ready for each event while maintaining strong relationships with clients and vendors.

This role pays an annual salary of $114,000-$134,000 and is bonus eligible.

Benefits for Full-Time Roles: Health, dental, and vision insurance; 401(k) savings plan; 401(k) matching; and paid time off (vacation days, sick days, and 11 holidays).

This position will remain open until September 11, 2026.

Navy Pier is one of Chicago's most iconic event destinations. Built in 1916 as part of Daniel Burnham's Plan of Chicago, it pairs historic character with modern amenities and unforgettable lakefront views. Set on more than 50 acres, Navy Pier offers parks, dining, attractions, retail, cruise vessels, and exposition facilities that elevate every event. Highlights include two exhibit halls, 34 meeting rooms, the historic Aon Grand Ballroom, and Lakeview Terrace with sweeping lakefront views. From conferences and business meetings to trade shows and special events, Navy Pier offers space, flexibility, and wow factor to bring any event to life.

• Oversee the planning, setup, execution, and breakdown of all events at Navy Pier, ensuring smooth transitions between events. Manage all aspects of event operations, including staffing, client communication, and vendor coordination.
• Work closely with third-party vendors such as Aramark for housekeeping and event operations, ensuring quality standards are met. Coordinate with NPI on maintenance and engineering issues to ensure the facility's infrastructure is in optimal condition for events.
• Recruit, train, and manage a team of Event Managers, Event Coordinators, and support staff. Provide ongoing training and performance evaluations, and implement disciplinary procedures when necessary to maintain a high-functioning team. Meets with GM on a regular basis to discuss all matters pertaining to day-to-day operations and events as required.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for event clients, advising them on the facility's requirements and additional services. Ensure client satisfaction by addressing their needs promptly and resolving any concerns during the event.
• Prepare and manage the Event Operations budget, monitor expenditure, and forecast staffing and operational needs. Assist in developing cost estimates for event services and ensure accuracy in post-event billing.
• Oversee event set-up, teardown, and facility conversion, ensuring timely and efficient transitions between events. Coordinate with Aramark on staffing needs and logistics to ensure the venue is properly prepared for each event.
• Ensure all events comply with local, state, and federal safety regulations. Work with NPI to maintain safety protocols and ensure the facility meets health and safety standards for events.
• Establish and uphold high standards for customer service. Quickly and efficiently resolve client concerns, using conflict resolution skills to ensure successful outcomes for both clients and staff.
• Oversee event logistics, including audiovisual services, food & beverage, event security, and crowd management. Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to ensure all aspects of the event are executed flawlessly.
• Negotiate contracts with service providers as needed, ensuring that all services are delivered according to contract terms and client expectations. Review service agreements to confirm they meet the event's requirements and regulatory standards.
• Collaborate with NPI to ensure that all facility systems (e.g., HVAC, lighting, fire protection) are in proper working order. Inspect event spaces to ensure they are ready for use and that all safety protocols are in place.
• Ensure proper documentation for all events, including post-event summaries, vendor reports, and operational feedback. Use these reports to recommend improvements and streamline event processes.
• Implement strategies to improve event operations, reduce setup times, and increase operational efficiency. Regularly review event processes to ensure they align with Navy Pier's goals for excellence.

• Bachelor's degree in business, Hospitality Management, or a related field required.
• 5-7+ years of experience in event management, preferably within a large public assembly facility (convention center, arena, or similar), with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
• Proven experience in managing and leading teams, including the recruitment, training, and evaluation of staff.
• Strong ability to build a positive team culture focused on performance and client satisfaction.
• Experience working with third-party vendors, especially in areas such as housekeeping, facility maintenance, and event setup.
• Ability to negotiate contracts and manage vendor relationships effectively.
• Familiarity with facility maintenance processes and the ability to collaborate with maintenance teams (e.g., NPI) on operational and safety issues.
• Strong financial management skills, including budget preparation, cost estimation, and expenditure tracking.
• Ability to provide accurate financial reports for event operations.
• Thorough understanding of local, state, and federal safety regulations and compliance requirements.
• Experience developing safety protocols and managing risk during large events.
• Exceptional customer service skills, with the ability to manage client relationships and resolve conflicts effectively.
• Proven problem-solving skills in fast-paced, high-pressure environments.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and event management software.

At OVG, we understand that to continue positively disrupting the sports and live entertainment industry, we need a diverse team to help us do it. We also believe that inclusivity drives innovation, strengthens our people, improves our service, and raises our excellence. Our success is rooted in creating environments that reflect and celebrate the diverse communities in which we operate and serve, and this is the reason we are committed to amplifying voices from all different backgrounds.

Oak View Group is committed to equal employment opportunity. We will not discriminate against employees or applicants for employment on any legally recognized basis ("protected class") including, but not limited to veteran status, uniform service member status, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information or any other protected class under federal, state, or local law.

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