Director of Event Operations, San Diego Convention Center

The San Diego Convention Center has retained SearchWide Global to find a collaborative, analytical, and adaptive leader to serve as the new Director of Event Operations, providing strategic leadership and oversight for Event Set-Up, Cleaning Services, and Exhibitor Services. This role is responsible for ensuring all spaces are prepared in accordance with show management specifications, while maintaining the Corporation’s standards of cleanliness, efficiency, and guest experience. The Director develops and implements operational strategies, staffing models, and process improvements to support seamless event execution, effective risk mitigation, and high client satisfaction. The Director also champions a strong culture of workplace safety and shared team responsibility, embedding data-driven decision-making, industry best practices, and innovative solutions to enhance performance, optimize labor, and elevate client value. The facility features 2.6 million gross square feet, including 615,701 square feet of exhibit space, 204,114 square feet of meeting space with two 40,000-square-foot ballrooms, 284,494 square feet of pre-function, lobby, and registration areas, and 184,514 square feet of outdoor terrace space.