Director of Special Events

• Leads operational planning and event logistics for the annual KDM Ball in partnership with the Development Director & Ball Committee, ensuring seamless execution and guest experience. While every effort has been made to make this description of the essential functions as complete as possible, it in noway states or implies that this is an exhaustive listing of the only duties you will be required to perform. Minimum Qualifications: • Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Hospitality, Event Management, Tourism, or related field.• Minimum 5 years of sales and management experience with direct responsibility for a major event orentertainment facility.• Proven experience managing complex, high-volume event spaces.• Proficiency in CRM systems, event software (e.g., Reserve), and Microsoft Office Suite.• Strong leadership, negotiation, and interpersonal communication skills.• Familiarity with ADA, safety codes, and risk management best practices.• Experience with digital ticketing systems.• Demonstrated ability to drive revenue growth and identify market opportunities.• Excellent oral, written, and interpersonal communication.• Ability to stand for long periods of time, quickly walk up and down stairs to restock product.• Able to work in inclement weather conditions during racing.• Must be able to sufficiently pass a criminal background check.• Must be available to work Derby week, including but not limited to Thurby, Oaks, Derby, and the Sunday ofDerby weekend.• Must be available to work during the week of FFA and Breeders Cup, (when held in Louisville). Supervisory Responsibilities: • Oversees the recruitment, training, and performance management of the Events Manager and EventCoordinators to ensure the successful execution of all museum events.• Coordinates the selection and engagement of external vendors for event rentals and specialized services.• Develops and distributes monthly work schedules for the events team, ensuring adequate coverage andoperational efficiency.• Manages the ongoing partnership with the vendor of the museum’s database management software, ensuringsystem functionality and optimization.• Organizes and supervises relevant computer and software training for staff involved in event sales and relatedfunctions.• Communicates regularly with the EVP to provide updates on departmental needs, challenges, anddevelopments; represents the department in internal and external meetings as required. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to a crowded work area.